Mr. Frye discussed several non-reoccurring outside agency financial requests. Most of the outside agency grant requests were the same as presented at the May TDA meeting.
The Edward Franklin House was reintroduced by Mr. Frye and discussed by authority members. The request involves a large/ multi tree removal project around the Edward Franklin House - to aid the preservation of the house and property. The request for the tree removal work totaled = $10,000.
Upon motion by Ms. Holyfield, seconded by Ms. Turney, the Authority unanimously voted to approve $10,000 to pay for the tree removal at the Edward Franklin House.
Mr. Frye discussed a non-reoccurring grant request from Foothills Plain Air Festival, which involves artists travelling throughout the County and showcasing the Surry County region through creating and selling artwork. The request is for $1,500 to assist in starting the Foothills Plain Air.
Upon Motion by Ms. Turney, seconded by Ms. Holyfield, the Authority unanimously voted to approve $1,500 to Foothills Plain Air Festival.
Mr. Frye revisited a request from Surry Arts Council requesting financial assistance to assist in construction of cabinet display in the renovated Andy Griffith Playhouse lobby. Members of the TDA discussed how the exhibit in Mount Airy would promote tourism County wide, as the Surry County TDA is responsible for doing. The request was tabled.
Mr. Frye discussed current incentive grants and provided totals from each individual incentive grant.
Mr. Frye provided an update on the Ground Steak Trail. Mr. Frye informed TDA members that we would lose two trail members this year. Porky's BBQ will be removed from the trail after changing to Pit Stop and the dish not being available, and Sue's Kitchen in Dobson will drop off after no longer offering the sandwich, due to staffing challenges and ground steak being removed from the menu.
Mr. Frye provided an update on Wayfinding Signage. It was discovered that out of almost 30 total signs there are three in need of repair. The total for repairing the three signs is $6,900. The three repaired signs will be installed by the end of the calendar year in December.
Mr. Frye highlighted promotional activity for the Surry Wine Trail. Surry on the Go is in the process of shooting a harvest season video, possibly collaborating with Stoney Knoll Vineyard. Mr. Frye discussed the wine industry needing support from the TDA, specifically advertising assistance using TDA resources.