City of Salem Tourism Board met Jan. 10.
Here are the minutes provided by the board:
Call to Order
The Salem Tourism Board met at Salem City Hall. Chairman Bob Haney called the meeting to order at 5:00 pm. Present were board members Leon Chapman, Rick Russ, Jacob Hockett, Joy Connor and Secretary Cindy Eller
Election of Officers
Rick Russ nominated Jacob Hockett as Chairman and Leon Chapman nominated Rick Russ to remain as Vice-Chairman. Motion was made to elect Jacob Hockett as Chairman and Rick Russ as Vice-Charman for 2022. Ayes: Bob Haney, Rick Russ, Leon Chapman and Joy Connor Nays: None
Abstain: Jacob Hockett. Motion carried
Minutes
The minutes of the December 13, 2021 meeting were presented for action. Leon Chapman made a motion to approve the minutes. Rick Russ seconded the motion. Ayes: Chairman Jacob Hockett. Bob Haney,, Rick Russ, Joy Connor and Leon Chapman. Nays: None Motion carried.
Treasurer’s Report
The Treasurer’s Report for December, 2021 was presented for action. Leon Chapman made a motion to approve the report. Joy Connor seconded the motion. Ayes: Bob Haney, Dana Hampton ,Rick Russ Leon Chapman and Chairman Jacob Hockett. Nays: None. Motion carried.
Presentation of Petitions/Public Comments
Sam Phillips, owner of UCAMP in Salem, spoke to the Board regarding marketing Salem to draw more people off the interstate into our town. Phillips stated he has purchased a billboard south of Mt. Vernon on his own but feels the Board needs to do more to advertise our town. Phillips feels we need to highlight the unique things Salem has to offer. Phillips suggested giving businesses the option to be included but having them share the cost.
City Manager Rex Barbee stated he would take these suggestions to the City Council to see what can be done.
Tabitha Meador, Economic Development Director, told the Board the she had toured the Iron Saddle Ranch which is located outside the City limits of Salem. Meador stated that is an incredible facility with plans for more expansion down the road. Meador stated that the City of Salem will benefit from this business as it will draw visitors from all over.
Meador stated that an ad with IllinoiSouth has be submitted highlighting the inclusive playground, disc golf and the Aquatic.
Mayor Pro Tem Jim Koehler stated he feels like William Jennings Bryan should be a drawing point for Tourism.
Grant Reports
None
Board Members Report
Board member Rick Russ will meet with Serpentine next week to get started on the website. Russ is hopeful this will launch end of February or March.
Mayor Pro Tem Jim Koehler presented Bob Haney a certificate of appreciation for his 18 years of service to the Tourism Board as Haney had presented a letter of resignation to Mayor Nic Farley.
Adjournment
As there was no further business to discuss, the meeting was adjourned at 5:40p.m.
https://www.salemil.us/tourism-board/minutes/tourism-board-minutes-13
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