(Editor’s Note: Each year, Arkansas Business partners with the Arkansas Municipal League to present the Trendsetter City awards, which recognize exceptional initiatives underway in municipalities across the state. Large, medium and small-sized cities were honored in six categories: Diversity and Inclusion; Education/Workforce Development; Infrastructure and Water; Public Works/Environmental and Green Management; Technology and Security; and Tourism Development/Creative Culture. Below is one winner’s story. For more, click here.)
Tourism Development/Creative Culture
Honorable Mention • 5,000-20,000
Population: 12,825 | Mayor: Hillrey Adams | County: Baxter | Region: Northeast
The Challenge
For many years, Mountain Home has been known as a tourist destination due to its surrounding recreational water activities. However, very few people made their way inland. The city had a growing need to diversify sources of revenue and employment. So, the city set out to revitalize its downtown, aiming to create a place for tourists and residents alike to spend their time and money.
Mountain Home has had 60 consecutive months of sales tax revenue growth.
The Solution
In a partnership with the Chamber of Commerce, community stakeholders, and downtown business owners, Mountain Home established an entertainment district. Since its inception, over 20 businesses have opened, the number of visitors has increased by 80% and a new merchants association has formed. Compared to 2022, the entertainment district has already seen a 21% increase in visitors for 2023. Mountain Home also has the only all-inclusive playground in north-central Arkansas.
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