Decatur County Tourism Board Meeting: Executive Director Announces Resignation- 1/16/25

The Decatur County Tourism Board met on January 16, 2025, at 12 pm. The board voted to accept the Consent Agenda as submitted.

Philip Deiwert, Executive Director provided his Director’s Report which included the end of the year budget. He stated that at this time they have not received the second half of the Innkeepers Tax Report for 2024, however that he believes it will exceed $300,000 in Innkeepers Tax. Philip added that he thought this was the first time that they have received that much. Philip went over encumbrances and the budget and cash ledger. Philip spoke about the photo walk meeting with Main Street Greensburg and Local Photographers. Philip and Erica will be attending the Indiana Tourism Association Advocacy Summit next week.

Erica Gunn, Marketing Director provided a marketing update. Erica states that the newsletter that was posted online has received a lot of attention and views. She added that the Tourism website is received a lot of traffic. Erica said that sponsorships for the Concert Summer Series are up for the year, and they are continuing to accept those sponsorships. Erica said that they have confirmed most of the Summer Concert Series bands and that they will be releasing the line-up in early February.

The board voted to continue with the same meeting schedule that they had in 2024. They meet on the third Thursday of each month at noon. They do not meet in July or December.

The board voted to elect their 2025 Board Officers: President- Ryan Maddux, Vice President- Eric Rowles, Treasurer- Daniel Fayette, and Secretary- Darren Covington.

The board discussed quotes presented by Philip that was for the front door glass and another for the front windows and door. The concern is that the windows and door are not well insulated, and Philip feels that some changes could decrease the heating bill and also ensure the front of the office would be the same temperature as the rest of the building. The board decided to table the quotes, and they would discuss this with the landlord.

Image from Philip Deiwert’s Linkedin account.

Philip concluded the meeting by presenting his resignation to the board effective February 7, 2025. Having served as Executive Director for six years, Philip has been instrumental in numerous events and committees during his tenure. He expressed his gratitude to everyone he had the opportunity to work with, extending special thanks to Erica, the board members, City of Greensburg, Decatur County, Mainstreet Greensburg and the team at the Indiana Tourism Association (ITA).

Philip announced that he will be joining the Hendricks County Tourism team, sharing his excitement for the new role and appreciation for the opportunities he experienced while serving as Executive Director at the Decatur County Tourism Office. The board members individually thanked Philip for his dedication to the office and his contributions to the county. After the meeting I had the opportunity to speak with Philip and he stated that he plans to stay in the area for the foreseeable future and that he will stay active in Decatur County.

Board President Ryan Maddux stated that he will consult with Patty Hensley, Decatur County Human Resources Director, for guidance on posting the position and accepting resumes to fill the vacancy.

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