North Little Rock advertising and promotion permits moved to convention and visitors bureau

The North Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) will begin issuing advertising and promotion permits to new foodservice and lodging businesses operating in the city in 2019. The process was previously handled by the North Little Rock City Clerk and Treasurer’s office.

“Now the CVB will have an opportunity to welcome new business owners in person and explain our operation and how we support our permit holders,” said Bob Major, North Little Rock CVB President & CEO. “Our tax revenue manager, Robin Powell, does an excellent job now of visiting with businesses when they remit taxes but for her to be at the forefront of the interaction will help them understand who we are and what we do.”

North Little Rock lodging facilities collect a 3.5% lodging tax, 2.5% of which funds the North Little Rock CVB and 1% funds the North Little Rock Parks & Recreation Department. A 3% North Little Rock A&P tax is collected on all prepared food, the majority of which funds the North Little Rock Parks & Recreation Department. The North Little Rock CVB uses its funding to advertise and promote the City of North Little Rock as a destination for visitors, who bring revenue to hospitality businesses.

“Opening a new business can be daunting but we are here to help,” Major said. “Part of our mission is to enhance economic growth in North Little Rock, and that is achieved by working one-on-one with business owners and managers to help them succeed.”

There are 34 lodging properties and three campgrounds/RV parks in North Little Rock. As of August 2018, AirBnB began remitting the A&P tax on behalf of its hosts in North Little Rock.

Though the number fluctuates, there are approximately 350 foodservice businesses permitted to operate in North Little Rock. An A&P permit is required for foodservice and lodging operations in North Little Rock and can be obtained for free.