TDA votes Tyson as its vice chair

In a relatively quiet Kinston-Lenoir County Tourism Development Authority meeting on Wednesday, one change was made in structure.

Joseph Tyson was elected vice chairman by the TDA board Tuesday. Tyson, who was chairman of the TDA board for 12 years as the Kinston City Council's representative, is familiar with the position. Tyson said his flexible schedule and knowledge of the TDA were the biggest reasons for him getting the position.

“I’m retired, so I’ve got the ability to make more of these meetings and facilitate when (Chairman) Gram (Spear) isn’t available,” Tyson said. “I do appreciate the board having the confidence in me to do the job.”

Board member Stephen Hill said it was an easy decision to have Tyson fill the role.

“He knows what he’s doing and is very competent,” Hill said. “We have a lot of confidence in him to do the job and he’s got a lot of history.”

Besides nominating Tyson as vice chairman, the other highlight of Tuesday’s meeting was the announcement that the tourism tax revenue increased 13 percent. Board member Linda Rouse Sutton said it will grant the TDA a little more flexibility while working toward bringing more individuals to Kinston.

“It’s nice to know we’ve got a little more money than we thought and seeing our tax revenue grow a bit more,” Sutton said. “We’re also moving forward with our new logo and getting one step closer to showing the brand.”

The next meeting will be held Tuesday, Sept. 25 at 3 p.m. at the Kinston-Lenoir County Chamber of Commerce.