2015-11-19-TOUR2-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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Town of Lexington Tourism Committee Dawn McKenna, Chair (781) 862 -0500 ext 84585 Minutes Thursday, November 19, 2015 at 4 — 5:30 pm Parker Room Members Present: Kerry Brandin, Margaret Coppe, Bebe Fai ick, Trisha Kennealy, Dawn McKenna, Wim Nijenberg; Staff present: Masha Traber Members Absent: Leeying Wu Center Committee Liaison: Fred Johnson Guests: Richard Pagett 1) Tourism Operations a) Staffing: It was reported that interviews had taken place for the position of Economic Development Coordinator. The candidate, Megan Devine, who had the unanimous consent of the interview panel was recommended for hire. The Committee express its concern that the position planned for 60% tourism time, rather than the full -time status originally proposed. b) Office: As a result of the hire and other changes within the Town Office Building. The Economic Development Office is moving to the old Lexpress Office, and Megan will be given the Tourism Office. Therefore, the Tourism Committee office, including the Liberty Ride operations, will move to the Visitors Center. Dawn and Masha will work on moving. The computer, a printer and copier will be needed in the new space, in addition to our furniture. c) Committee: A discussion took place as to how to fill the two openings on the Committee. We are still waiting for a proposed appointment from the Historical Society. Kerry suggested asking the owner of Kaitlyn Travel to join. Kerry will inquire as to her interest. 2) Liberty Ride /Battle Green Guide Season Wrap -up The Liberty Ride had a successful July — October operations. As of today there is a surplus of $31,322.68 in the Liberty Ride account. This is substantially more than previous years at this point in the season, and more than required to underwrite Spring operations. To date there have already been 65 charter tours. There is still a balance owed to the Town from prior advances. Upon motion duly made by Trisha and seconded by Kerry, it was unanimously voted to authorize the repayment the balance of the debt to the Town from the Liberty Ride Revolving Fund. It was reported that June Baer quit as Assistant Liberty Ride Coordinator prior to the end of the season. She remained on as Battle Green Guide Coordinator. Fortunately, Matt McKenzie, a Liberty Ride Guide was available to cover many of the hours. With respect to the veteran guides, we continue to work to obtain approval for the requested increase and hope to have the raises in place by the Spring. 3) Visitors Center The Permanent Building Committee has been meeting with the architect for the Visitors Center project. A request has been submitted to the Community Preservation Committee for design and construction funding for the project. This will continue to be refined as the project progresses. 1625 MASSACHUSETTS AVENUE • LEXINGTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02420