The Webster Parish Convention and Visitors Commission held its quarterly meeting Wednesday, May 20, at the lodge at Lake Bistineau State Park as part of a new initiative to rotate meetings among tourism destinations throughout the parish.
During its previous meeting, the board voted to begin holding meetings at major tourism sites so commissioners could become more familiar with attractions and recreational opportunities available in Webster Parish.
The state park is open year-round and offers hiking trails, kayaking trails, fishing, tent camping, and cabin rentals.
Board members Derek Melancon and Dianne Blake were absent. All agenda items requiring votes were approved unanimously.
Executive Director Amie Poladian reported that the commission’s social media presence continues to grow and reach more people. She said the commission is pursuing a grant for a kayak rental kiosk that would allow visitors to rent kayaks at launch docks previously installed by the commission.
Poladian also said the tourism office has been working closely with Main Street programs throughout the parish to encourage overnight stays and bring more visitors into the area.
Amber Cobb, executive director of the Springhill-North Webster Chamber of Commerce, updated the board on several upcoming events connected to the Springhill Airport, including an R/C jet rally, skydiving activities, and paramotor tours.
Cobb also reported progress on efforts to develop ATV trails in the region.
She said she has been working with a man who has been marking ATV trails in DeSoto Parish and that he will physically mark trails in Webster Parish as well. Digital routes for both land and water recreation will be available through the tourism commission’s new website, which is expected to launch by the end of June.
The board approved four advertising grants, each in the amount of $2,000. Recipients included the Springhill Rodeo Association for its September 18-20 rodeo, A Taste of the Market scheduled June 6, the Freedom Market 250th Celebration planned for July 4, and the Miss Louisiana Volunteer leadership event set for June 27-28.
Commissioners also authorized Poladian to enter into a cooperative endeavor agreement with Friends of Minden Main Street for Grilling on Main. The commission had previously approved a $4,000 operational grant for the event.
The board also revisited plans for office relocation. During the previous meeting, commissioners approved moving into office space near the REC. However, officials said unforeseen circumstances made that location unavailable.
Previously, the tourism office had operated from the same building as the Greater Minden Chamber.
“When we moved from the Chamber, we felt like we needed our own space for our own identity,” Chairman Ty Pendergrass said.
Commissioners selected office space at 422 Broadway St., formerly occupied by Mickey Love State Farm. The office backs up to Miller Quarters Park, which is owned by the tourism commission.
Officials said the downtown location near City Hall would provide convenience and visibility. Rent will be $2,000 per month, including utilities, and the commission plans to move June 1.
The board also approved renewal of contracts for Chloe Burns for administrative support services through December 31, Brianna Savoy for social media management through December 31, and Poladian as executive director through July 7, 2027.
The next meeting will be held in July at Muddy Bottoms ATV & Recreation Park. Meetings are open to the public.
