YEDC considers Texas Independence Trail membership

The Yoakum Economic Development Corporation (YEDC) discussed the possibility of renewing Yoakum’s membership in the Texas Independence Trail at the April 15 meeting.

The Texas Independence Trail is a regional program that promotes heritage tourism and drives economic development through historical and cultural preservation.

“Yoakum was previously a member, and we recently received an invitation to renew the membership,” YEDC Executive Director Genora Young said. “Board members are interested in how an enhanced membership could further benefit our community.”

The Texas Independence Trail Region supports participating communities through promotional cam - paigns, education, and statewide travel shows. Member cities are invited to participate in tourism booths at these events, offering them visibility to a broader audience of travelers and history enthusiasts.

“Yoakum is already listed on the Independence Trail’s website,” Young said. “An enhanced membership brings additional benefits, including being part of travel expos. With a booth, we can share materials, promote Yoakum and bring attention to our local attractions. The Board directed me to seek potential community partners who could assist with booth staffing and promotional efforts at outof-town events.”

“Given our location, Yoakum could position itself as a hub for visitors touring the western portion of the Trail. Trail enthusiasts could come overnight here and enjoy our golf course, museum, library, parks, The Grand Theater, restaurants, Yoakum’s unique retail offerings, and local clothing and leather manufacturers.”

Additionally, Young introduced the board to SeeMyLegacy, an online fundraising and volunteer engagement platform that could serve city departments such as the Parks Department, Fire Department, Police Department, and the library, as well as the museum, and the Chamber of Commerce.

The platform allows users to build promotional campaigns, manage volunteers, and share updates through web and social media integrations.

The annual subscription cost for SeeMyLegacy is $2,500. It also includes the option of a QR code feature that links physical donations— like sponsored park benches—to stories about the donors or their businesses.

“It’s a creative way to tie storytelling to giving,” Young said. “A sponsored bench could include a QR code that, when scanned, shares the history of the company that donated it. That code remains active for ten years. YEDC is not pursuing a subscription; however, the Board recognized that the program may be an opportunity for another entity to promote, market, and raise funds for specific quality of life projects.”

In other business:

• It was reported that the final request for the release of funds for Navy’s Place, located next door to YK Deli, is anticipated in the coming weeks when the fourth and final phase of construction is complete. Navy’s Place will offer Asian Fusion and some American cuisine. The Grand Opening date is tentatively set for May.

• Work continues on the new YEDC website, including mapping Yoakum’s proximity to major transportation.

• It was reported that a Yoakum update, including progress at Industrial Park II, was presented during the Lavaca County Commissioners Court meeting on March 25.

• The monthly financial report was provided by Debbie Gray, City Finance Director.