Van Buren A&P talks Arkansas River tourism connections

story by Marla Cantrell
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Gov. Mike Beebe wants to flood the Arkansas River corridor with tourists.

During Wednesday’s (June 9) meeting of the Van Buren Advertising and Promotions Commission, executive director Maryl Koeth said she’d just returned from a meeting in Beebe’s office where she met with several department heads from the state’s parks and tourism department to discuss the initiative. (One of the initiatives has been termed “River to Rails.” Link here for more info on that concept.)

A study has been commissioned to research what the state has to offer and what it needs to entice visitors to areas along the river.

“A big part of this effort is going to be retail development, which is something the state hasn’t had a lot to do with in the past. So we’re going to be looking at shops, like we have on Main Street. It’s going to encompass a lot more than lodging, restaurants and marinas,” Koeth explained.

Although, marinas do play a large role in the plan. Koeth said Van Buren is eons ahead of other towns since it has Wildcat Marina. But what Wildcat, and every other marina in the state, lacks is exposure.

“Arkansas is not even included in the marina GPS navigation programs,” Koeth said.

The commission also discussed a plan to pump up collection efforts of its 1% sales tax on prepared food and lodging. Koeth recommended a plan to issue A&P permits through the city, so the commission would have pertinent records on business owners, which would help if action needed to be taken. It would also help the commission contact new businesses in the area. Koeth regularly drives the city to make sure new businesses have not moved in without the A&P’s knowledge.

There have been nine liens placed, totaling $6,613, from 2001 through 2009. Koeth said she would like to see a penalty added for future offenders. The change would require the city council’s approval.

“Right now the only teeth we have is the lien,” Koeth said. “The liens are good for 10 years, so they do have some weight and It does affect their credit. But it’s still not as effective as a penalty, because they would be in violation of a city ordinance.”

The massive oil spill, which is causing travel concerns for vacationers fearing the worst on Florida beaches was the final topic discussed. Koeth said she is placing additional ads in several publications to let those close to the area know that there is a vacation option in Van Buren.