Van Buren A&P reports on ‘encouraging’ signs

story by Marla Cantrell
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Maryl Koeth, executive director of the Van Buren Advertising and Promotions Commission, said things are finally looking up.

At the Wednesday (Sept. 8) meeting, Koeth cited the accounts receivable balance of $862 as proof the economy is on the upswing.

“It’s a very encouraging sign,” Koeth said. “That’s lower than it’s been since the economic hard times started.”

July tax receipts totaling $35,301 were also up from the July of last year when the commission only took in $34,086. For the first six months of 2010, Van Buren collections total $194,204, down 3.1% compared to the 2009 period. Van Buren collects a 1% tax on lodging and a 1% tax on restaurants.

“I’m excited to see things moving upward,” Commissioner Donna Parker said.

In other business, the time of the monthly meetings was changed from 5:30 p.m. on the second Wednesday of the month, to 4:30 p.m., beginning in October. Koeth said the change had been discussed in the past and should better accommodate the schedules of the commissioners.

The commission also voted to extend Tina Youngblood’s term for another four years. The recommendation will be presented to the city council at the next regular meeting.

The group also discussed a new festival, called Riverboat Rendezvous, coming to Fort Smith’s Riverfront Park on Oct. 23.

“Joe Miller, with Lawbreakers and Peacemakers, is bringing in Civil War re-enactors, mountain men, and an Indian village,” Koeth said. “It’s a teaching event about our heritage. He’s trying to get a keelboat. There will be live music. It will be the same weekend as the Tales of the Crypt.”

The next meeting will be Oct. 12, at 4:30 p.m., at the A&P offices in historic downtown Van Buren.