By GAGE WILSON
For Glasgow News 1
The Park City Tourist and Convention Commission convened Wednesday for a special-called meeting to handle several matters, including its budget and a new sign planned for the Interstate 65 exit.
Tourism Director Linda Watts explained that the commission needed to take three votes: one to approve the original 2025 budget, one for the amended version, and one for the 2026 budget. “That is the one that we’ll have to enter by Sept. 1,” Watts said. “These figures are just estimates based on what indexes say, and what bills say.” Commissioners approved the budgets without further discussion.
Attention then turned to a proposed “welcome sign” project, raised by chairman Joe Bailey. He told the group that the city is still working to secure funds for the $20,000 sign and asked if the commission could contribute $1,000.
Barren County Fiscal Court has pledged $4,900 and Beautify Barren County has pledged $5,000, according to Mayor Larry Poteet.
“We have already poured the foundation for the sign,” Poteet said, adding that remaining costs would cover lettering and lighting.
Watts supported the idea of aiding the city and suggested the money could come from the commission’s recently awarded Trailtown Grant funds. She noted that a reimbursement check for matching funds was expected soon, totaling $12,624.75.
Park City Mayor Larry Poteet showed off the model for the Park City sign that will be placed close to Interstate 65 once funding and construction have been cemented. Gage Wilson/For Glasgow News 1
Watts also updated members on a new project, the “John Muir Legacy Trail.” It is named for the naturalist who passed through the Mammoth Cave area in 1867 during his famed walk to the Gulf. While details have yet to be set, Watts expressed excitement about the project and promised to keep the commission informed.
In other business, the commission went into closed session to discuss personnel. About 10 minutes later, members reconvened in open session and voted to give Watts a 25 percent raise effective Sept. 1, citing her success with grants and her efforts to promote the area.
The commission also voted to reschedule its next meeting. It will now convene on Sept. 9 at 3 p.m.
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