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.
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 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 increases occupancy tax rate
With a short but proven track record of funding capital projects, Jackson County will increase its occupancy tax rate to allow for more funding for its Tourism Development Authority.
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. This change aims to streamline the application process and enhance responsiveness to community projects while maintaining a structured program.
