Attorney finds Hooper violated Jackson TDA attendance policy
Jackson County Commissioner Jenny Lynn Hooper made a rare appearance at a Jackson County Tourism Development Authority meeting last week — only her third of 2025 — after echoing former Chair Robert Jumper’s claims that the attendance policy didn’t apply to her. County Attorney John Kubis, however, says Jumper and Hooper are both wrong.
Sylva ups its selfie game
The Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center, in collaboration with the Jackson County Tourism Development Authority (TDA), announced the installation of Sylva’s first “Perfect Spot for a Selfie” stickers. Designed to encourage exploration, engagement and community pride, these designated selfie spots are now located at the intersection of West Main Street and Keener Street — one on each corner.
Hooper’s absences continue to raise oversight questions
Last month, an investigation by The Smoky Mountain News revealed that Jackson County Commissioner Jenny Lynn Hooper had missed at least 13 of 16 meetings of various oversight or advisory boards she volunteered to serve on after her November 2024 election. Since then, new information has come to light showing she’s now missed at least 14 of 17 meetings, but Jackson County Tourism Development Authority Chairman Robert Jumper still can’t cite any authority that exempts Hooper from the removal policy stated in TDA’s own bylaws.
Jackson TDA releases new birding guide
The Jackson County Tourism Development Authority (TDA) announced the launch of its Birding in Jackson County guide — a free, full-color publication designed to help locals and visitors discover one of the most engaging outdoor activities the region has to offer.
Collins appointed to TDA board
Jackson County Commissioners appointed Dale Collins to the county’s Tourism Development Authority Board, filling a vacancy that had been left open since before December.
Commissioners delay TDA appointment, again
For the second meeting in a row, Jackson County Commissioners chose to table a routine appointment to the Jackson County Tourism Development Authority Board, leaving a board that has had difficulty filling seats in the past one member down with an applicant willing, ready and waiting in the wings.
Commissioners claim conflict of interest in TDA board appointment
When a routine appointment to the Jackson County Tourism Development Authority came up last week, commissioners decided to table the issue claiming there was a conflict of interest.
Jackson TDA announces quarterly cycle for Tourism Capital Project Fund
The Jackson County Tourism Development Authority (JCTDA) has announced a new quarterly cycle for the Tourism Capital Project Fund (TCPF), beginning in 2024-25.
Jackson TDA announces new cycle for tourism capital project fund
Jackson County Tourism Development Authority (JCTDA) will reopen its cycle for tourism capital projects Jan. 1, 2024. $600,000 is available for projects that benefit visitors and residents alike. Applications for this cycle are due June 1, 2024.
