Vinton County Commissioners Take Action to Address Concerns with Convention and Visitor’s Bureau

MCARTHUR — At the recent Commissioners’ meeting, Prosecutor William Archer, counsel to the County, addressed the pressing concerns that led to the recommendation for freezing the Lodging Tax funds allocated to the Vinton County Convention and Visitor’s Bureau (VCCVB).

“While my previous responses may have seemed vague, it was my intention to avoid publicly airing sensitive matters,” the prosecutor stated. “However, I continue to have substantial concerns regarding the CVB’s operations and management.”

In response to these concerns, he has formally requested a comprehensive audit and investigation into the CVB’s business practices from both the State Auditor’s Office and the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.

The issues raised include, but are not limited to, closed meetings, lack of contemporaneous meeting minutes and financial reports, questionable procurement practices, self-dealing, and a disregard for the CVB’s original mission and bylaws. “Whether the board’s behavior was intentional or negligent is irrelevant,” he emphasized. “The key issue is the proper use of tax funds.”

Considering these findings, Archer reaffirms the recommendation to freeze the CVB’s funds and cease further funding to what has been described as a dysfunctional organization. The commissioners stated they stand by their decision to defund the CVB.

To ensure proper oversight and accountability moving forward, the Commissioners have established a new county agency, the Vinton County Department of Tourism, which will now receive the Lodging Tax funds. This new agency will be subject to the rigorous oversight and compliance standards inherent in local government operations.

In other action, the commissioners appointed Ellen Lash as the fifth board member and Amanda Boring as acting director. The tourism board will have their first official meeting, September 26th at 1 PM at the Vinton County Development office on 205 S. Market Street.

“We believe that this new structure will provide the transparency and accountability that taxpayers deserve,” Archer concluded. “Our goal is to ensure that the funds are used effectively and in a manner that truly benefits the residents of Vinton County.”