Interim Executive Director of the Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism
Gov. Asa Hutchinson appointed Cynthia Dunlap as interim director of the Arkansas Department of Parks & Tourism in 2018. She replaced Kane Webb, who left to join Walmart Inc. Before that, she had served as CFO of the department for 14 years.
Dunlap began her career with Alltel, where she worked as staff manager over various accounting departments for 23 years. She holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock and is licensed by the state as a CPA. Dunlap has worked in accounting for 30-plus years and said her interest in that career began in high school.
What trends are being detecting in tourism tax receipts, and where are those receipts coming from?
Gross receipts for the 2 percent tourism tax have experienced a 5.07 percent annual increase for the past three fiscal years, FY2016-FY2018. Collections for FY2019 through November 2018 are up 2 percent over the same period in FY2018. Gross collections reached over $16 million for the first time in FY2018 and are on track to exceed that amount in FY2019.
The largest increase over this three-year period occurred in northwest Arkansas, with an increase of 10.7 percent, followed closely by central Arkansas with an increase of 10.1 percent.
What advantages does Arkansas have over other states when it comes to bringing tourists in from elsewhere? Disadvantages?
Arkansas has several advantages over other states. We are centrally located and have a diversity of geography, history and people. Whether you are looking for adventure, arts and culture, outdoor recreation, natural beauty, great food or relaxation, you’ll find it in Arkansas.
In 1995, we adopted the “Natural State” as our official nickname. It has worked well attracting visitors to the state. But I feel it’s the beauty of Arkansas and her residents that means the most to those who visit the state. Our love of the state is evident in the way we welcome others and in our eagerness to show off and preserve her natural beauty.
One disadvantage is that so many don’t realize all we have to offer. We face the challenge of getting the information out in a manner that will cause those not familiar with Arkansas to want to come here. Once they visit, they fall in love with Arkansas and will always want to come back.
What do you think of the governor’s plan to add the Department of Arkansas Heritage to Parks & Tourism, and how does your department plan to go about adjusting to that change, if his proposal is approved by the Legislature?
The merger of the Department of Parks & Tourism and the Department of Arkansas Heritage makes perfect sense. The mission, culture and makeup of both agencies have so many similarities that we envision many opportunities to gain efficiencies, improve services and maximize resources through shared services and possible reduction of redundant functions. We look forward to working with the Department of Arkansas Heritage to facilitate a smooth transition into our new working relationship.
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