Action taken by Branson Board of Aldermen
Board considers bill dealing with temporary animal adoption events
Often, government agencies and non-profit animal welfare groups want to hold temporary events in Branson where they put dogs and cats up for adoption to the public. This bill allows for such temporary adoption events with certain conditions as required by state statutes. The new ordinance allows pet adoption events in the city for no more than four days, and the adopting agency must have appropriate licenses and permits from the Missouri Department of Agriculture and a license issued by the city of Branson. This is the first reading of the bill. Second reading will be May 29.
Board approves application process for tourism tax contingency funds
Aldermen approved a resolution to have in place a formal application process for groups seeking money for the Tourism Tax Contingency Funds. Several years ago, the Board of Aldermen set aside a small portion of the tourism tax marketing revenues to fund special events or activities designed to bring more visitors to Branson. In the past, groups wanting these funds made a presentation before the aldermen at a regular meeting. With this Resolution, there is a formal, written application that must be completed and submitted to the aldermen before the request for funds is considered.
Chamber gives tourism update for first quarter 2007
The Branson Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce reported that Branson enjoyed a good first quarter in 2007. From January through March, the city sales tax increased 26 percent, the tourism tax 13 percent and hotel room occupancy was up 9 percent compared to first quarter 2006. The Chamber also reported that for the first time, more inquiries about Branson are coming through website hits rather than telephone calls. This year’s marketing strategy is to continue advertising in larger markets like Chicago and Dallas where targeting those markets in 2006 really paid off. Chamber officials say visitation will continue to grow in 2007, but more moderately and consistently.
Convention center update
Representatives from Turner Construction told aldermen that the convention center and convention center hotel remain on schedule to open in mid-August.
Board wants to expand written minutes
Board directed city administration to create a change in the city code to require more detailed written minutes of public comments at aldermen meetings. Currently, written minutes of aldermen meetings only show the vote on ordinances and only the names and addresses of citizens who spoke. Aldermen now want a synopsis of speakers’ comments on future written minutes. An ordinance to expand the written minutes will be on the May 29 Board of Aldermen agenda.
