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Promoting RV Travel & Camping in Texas
SUMMER 2022
TACO
www.tacomembers.com
An official publication of the Texas Association of Campground Owners
AND...THE
SURVEY SAYS
. . . . . . . . . . . 3
PROPERTY TAX REFORM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 7 WAYS TO GET THE MOST OF YOUR TACO CAMPGROUND MEMBERSHIP! . . . . . . . . . 6 TACO QUARTERLY LEGISLATIVE REPORT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 5 WAYS TO USE TEXT MESSAGING TO COMMUNICATE WITH GUESTS . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 ARE YOU AN RV PARK, CAMPGROUND OR RESORT? . . . . . . . . . . 17 IS THE RV INDUSTRY READY FOR THE ELECTRIC VEHICLE REVOLUTION? . . . . . 20 See Our Trade Vendors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-14
PLUS
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LEGAL/GVT. AFFAIRS 60 MARKETING
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AND...THE SURVEY SAYS...
I was a huge Richard Dawson fan on the original Family Feud. I can still hear his British accent screaming, “The survey says . . . “. Now imagine me screaming in a slight Texas twang. OK, here’s the results of a recent survey we sent you all and nearly 25% of you returned.
over the last five years. They are coming for the other 16% of you! In fact, you By Brian Schaeffer, Executive Director have had your taxes raised by 30% or more over that period and virtually none of you said it was due to substantial changes in your businesses or a dramatic increase in county services. For this reason, we are going to hammer commercial property tax fixes in the next legislative session: an annual Why did we do the survey, cap is at the top of our wish list. and was the return ratio a good one. When asked about state inspections and annual permits or national standards and permits to operate your businesses – 93% We did the survey because it had been a while since we asked and 98% said no and hell no. This is important because government you some direct and pertinent questions about the industry and your entities and some national organizations are looking for what amounts membership. We are also coming up on the time when the board to revenue-generating mechanisms to get in your business. We wanted sets the budget/priorities for 2022-2023, and having recent data is to make sure that fighting this is still important to you: it is! always best under these circumstances. As for the participation rate, We needed your thoughts about mobile RV techs versus onit was good. Especially since I have often joked that if I sent a notice site full-time techs. Ninety-seven percent of you prefer the off-site requesting $10 bills, and promised I’d send back $100 bills; we’d still mobile techs. Apparently staffing another position and the insurance only get 25% response! requirements, etc., outweigh the marketing benefits. The single most important member benefit for 60% of the Only 22% of you thought that discount programs on goods respondents was legal/government affairs. You all don’t want and services are very important when directly offered through the interference in running your businesses and when problems arise you association. This wasn’t a high priority and we do have a bunch of want to reach out for help. Marketing was second, with 24% of you associate members, many of whom offer TACO parks a discount. See putting a priority on that. Everything else fell down the list. We are the Vendor with a star by the name on the vendor member pages of significantly bumping up our budgets in the areas of Legal – Lege and this TACO News. We will be trying to provide additional options. Marketing. We hear you and we concur. Third party rating/review programs were somewhat or extremely Not surprising was the fact that 96% of respondents felt that a important to you. That is understandable in this day and age. We are local (state) camping association was more relevant than a national cultivating closer working relationships in this area. Stay tuned. association. The fact is that more things affecting our businesses, good Thanks for participating in the survey and as Richard Dawson or bad, happen at the local level. This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t have used to say, “We have some lovely parting gifts for you.” Namely, the national representation and support their programs where applicable. peaceful and successful operating of your park! H Eighty four percent of you have had your property taxes increased SUMMER 2022
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TACO Officers & Directors Regional Directors REGION 1, DIRECTOR Jan Pillai Midland RV Campground Midland, TX REGION 2 Ken Hinz Traders Village Grand Prairie, TX REGION 3, PRESIDENT Randall Dally Rayburn RV Hideout Brookeland, TX REGION 4, SECRETARY Susie Prater The Vineyards of Fredericksburg RV Park Fredericksburg, TX REGION 5, PAST PRESIDENT Cheryl McLaughlin Hatch RV Park Corpus Christi, TX REGION 6, DIRECTOR Charlie Bates Parkview Riverside RV Park
PROPERTY TAX REFORM IN THE FORM OF PROPOSED APPRAISAL LEGISLATION As told by a Texas House member. Ron Hinkle - TACO Legislative Consultant
A
cross the state my friends, family and constituents are appalled and highly agitated by the exponential increases in appraisals sent out by their County Appraisal Districts. They will be even more frustrated and upset by the corresponding increases in tax bills which will soon show up in our mailboxes.
Making matters worse, the reality is that the Chief Appraiser is not accountable to citizens. Personally, I’ve heard “I don’t have a boss” when a taxpayer asked a chief appraiser who they could appeal to. Like everyone else, the Chief Appraiser should have a boss. I believe the Chief Appraiser should be an elected position, on a 2-year ballot and that you, the voters, should be the “Boss.” There is a bill being drafted to make that change in statute. Most citizens, and definitely those who own commercial property, find the appeals process to be very frustrating and of marginal benefit given that CADs are not currently required to acknowledge the “evidence” provided by taxpayers supporting their opinion of value. To that end, a Chief Appraiser recently told a taxpayer that disparity in lot sizes and house sizes was not necessarily justifiable basis for a difference in appraised value. That type of contention fails to be pragmatic and is rightly upsetting to property-owning taxpayers. At very least, CADs should be required to accept taxpayer appraisals written by Texas licensed appraisers. There is a bill being drafted to require CADS to accept appraisals from property owners.
Concan, TX
Directors At Large DIRECTOR AT LARGE Austin Faught Bolivar Peninsula RV Park
There is an understanding that CADs want their appraisals to compare with mortgage appraisals. Therein exists a major problem. Applying the concept of “willing to sell,” to CAD comparable sales assumes that if every person was willing to sale, prices would hold. That is not the historic reality of what happens when markets are flooded. In those times prices have always plummeted, devastating property values. There is historic data to establish the impact flooded markets have on real estate prices, and property owners deserve protection.
Crystal Beach, TX –––––––––– TRADE REPRESENTATIVE Diana LeBlanc-Link PPL Houston, TX –––––––––– LEGISLATIVE CONSULTANT Ron Hinkle Austin, TX
House legislators are working on the idea of establishing a formula-based cap limiting the amount of the CAD appraised value which is taxable. Citizens are smart and know if everyone was forced to sell, prices would crash. The process of assuming a willing buyer for every property at CAD appraisal rates is taxing people out of their homes, and taxing Texas businesses out of existence. House legislators are drafting a bill that would create the formula as well as other statutory efforts to better protect businesses and Texans. In the meantime, every business owner and Texan needs to protest these “California buyer” appraisals. And don’t forget to participate in the tax rate setting process for the local entities, which is, as Paul Harvey was famously known to say, is “The rest of the story”.H
–––––––––– EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR / CEO
Editor: Lisa Rhodes
Brian & Debra Schaeffer
Design: KD Graphics & Design
TACO Office
TEXAS CAMPGROUNDS
Distribution: TACO Members, TACO Trade Members, TACO Prospective Members Contact: 910 S. Crowley Rd, Ste. 9-504 • Crowley, TX 76036 | 877-518-1989
Crowley, TX SUMMER 2022
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SEVEN WAYS TO GET THE MOST OF YOUR TACO CAMPGROUND MEMBERSHIP!
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1. Pay by Sept. 1st and get a 10% discount. 2. Check your TACO Guide Listing – make sure everything is accurate and updated with new amenities including Glamping and EV Charging. 3. Check your Texas Campgrounds listing for accuracy, new amenities, and new photos. Email listing updates to rhodes@texascampgrounds.com. 4. Check the latest blog post on TACOmembers.com for the latest information. 5. Have your login & password available for 24/7 access to documents online. 6. Advertise in the TACO Guide or texascampgrounds.com. 7. Attend the TACO Meeting & Trade Show - April 25 - 26, 2023.
• Classes • Fun Auction • Legislative Update • TACO Awards • TRADE SHOW
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Lone Star Convention & Expo Center • Conroe, TX More information coming soon! www.tacomembers.com • 877-518-1989
Pay your 2023 TACO Campground Dues Now! Call 877-518-1989 These are just a few of your many TACO membership benefits. For a more complete list visit TACOmembers.com/campground-benefits.
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TACO QUARTERLY S
SENATE FINANCE COMMITTEE
ome assume that after the 140-day legislative session, legislators go back to their regular jobs back in the district; they’ll strategize for the next political campaign, assist in local constituent issues, or just live with the laws they passed. Although much of this happens, legislators are still busy with the legislative process. The cost of providing basic government services has increased exponentially with economic and population growth: Texas has seen explosive growth in new businesses being created or relocated to Texas, along with increases in residents. As a result, the legislative process, even when the legislative session ends, still has much life to it and TACO is very much involved in this interim time. We are busier than ever before!
Property Tax Relief: Examine and recommend ways to reduce Texans’ property tax burden. Review and report on proposals to use or dedicate state revenues in excess of the state spending limit to eliminate the school district maintenance and operations property tax. Inflation: Review and report on the effect inflation is having on the business community and state government, including state salaries, retiree benefits, the state economy, and cost of state services. Inflation: Review and report on the impact of inflation on units of local governments’ revenue collections and property taxpayers’ tax bills, including the homestead exemption.
At the end of the legislative session in May, the Speaker of the House and the Lt. Governor provided various “charges” or subject matter for the various House and Senate committees to study, and to take testimony from state agencies, businesses and the general public. These charges often result in committee meetings during the interim period and those hearings may take place at the State Capitol or locations around the state to get maximum input from the general public and interested parties.
SENATE LOCAL GOVERNMENT COMMITTEE
Property Tax Reform: Review the effect of Senate Bill 2 (86th Legislature), the Texas Property Tax Reform and Transparency Act of 2019, and related legislation passed by the 87th Legislature. Make recommendations for further property tax reform and relief. Appraisal Reform: Review the implementation of Senate Bill 63, House Bill 988, and other related legislation passed by 87th Legislature. Make recommendations to ensure appraisal guidelines are effective and taxpayers have enforcement mechanisms.
It is the expectation that TACO will be involved in some of these interim charges (listed below) and we look forward to member’s input to help craft good public policy as it relates to the RV Park industry.
HOUSE COMMITTEE ON WAYS & MEANS
SENATE BUSINESS & COMMERCE COMMITTEE
Study and consider methods of providing additional property tax relief, including the use of $3 billion in available American Rescue Plan Act funds that were held for future tax relief by the 87th Legislature, and other sources of revenue.
Electricity: Assess the electricity market in Texas. Study issues impacting the Texas electric grid, including weather preparedness, transmission planning, maintenance scheduling, and the natural gas supply chain. Study the consequences of increased electric vehicle usage and charging on the generation, transmission and distribution, and retail sectors of Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) and evaluate their potential impact on increased electric demand and reliability of the grid. Evaluate potential benefits of real-time transparency of the intrastate gas market with respect to the functions of ERCOT and the Texas Energy Reliability Council. Examine the growth of renewable energy generation in the state and evaluate its impact on grid reliability. Make recommendations to strengthen the reliability of the grid, and meet the future generation needs of ERCOT through new and existing dispatchable generation. Assess plans to expeditiously add new dispatchable generation. Monitor the implementation of Senate Bill 2 and Senate Bill 3, 87th Legislature.
Explore options to reduce business property tax burdens and options for limiting the growth of property tax bills. 3. Study Texas’ property tax appraisal system and make appropriate recommendations to improve the appraisal system. The study should include: • Assessing the accuracy of appraised values and operational effectiveness of appraisal districts. • Evaluating methods of selecting chief appraisers, appraisal review boards, and appraisal district directors; and • Evaluating existing appraisal protections for taxpayers and ease of taxpayer participation in the appraisal process. TACO Comment: Property tax and appraisal reform is necessary to keep business property taxes at a proper and sustainable level that not only unburdens businesses from high property taxes but also provides the necessary funding for cities and counties to continue to provide necessary services.
TACO Comment: A reliable electric grid is vital to all businesses in Texas, large and small. Affordability and reliability are primary concerns. TACO will monitor and provide input if necessary, regarding the electricity market on travel and tourism in Texas.
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JULY 2022
LEGISLATIVE REPORT By Ron Hinkle - TACO Legislative Consultant
PROPERTY TAX RELIEF
merely double, is between $1.37 billion and $1.72 billion in costs. In both cases, Texas ratepayers are ultimately on the hook for the costs as they pass through the system. The PUC responds that there is more reliability on the grid.
There have been several serious discussions already in the House and Senate committees regarding property tax relief. One recommendation that is being discussed is using a combination of financial tools to drive down property taxes.
TEXAS SUNSET ADVISORY COMMISSION
One potential solution offered is to use a combination of state surplus dollars, unspent surplus from the Permanent School Fund and an increase in the sales tax rate to spend down the highest portion of the property tax bill–the school maintenance & operations (M&O) tax.
The Texas Legislature created the Texas Sunset Advisory Commission in 1977 to make state government more efficient, effective, and accountable. The Commission gives the legislature more control over state agencies and programs.
This potential solution was brushed off in earlier discussions but lately seems to have gained a bit more the attention from some of the legislative budget writers. The upside is the potential of totally eliminating the highest portion of the property tax for residential and commercial owners. The downside for some is the use of the state surplus and the increase in sales tax. One concern is the question of will there always be a state surplus to use to pay down that M&O portion of the property tax. The other concern is the impact of the increase in sales tax (some estimate it would need to be between 8% and 14%) on the consumer and on businesses. No one has the final plan: but the fact that rising property tax burdens are becoming more and more of a concern is a bright spot in an otherwise dismal situation.
There are 21 separate state agencies under the Sunset review. Among them are the Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), Texas Public Utility Commission (PUC), the Electric Reliability Commission of Texas (ERCOT), & the Texas Economic Development (EDT) and Tourism office.
ERCOT (the grid operator known as the Electric Reliability Council of Texas)
TACO will be monitoring the hearings on the PUC and ERCOT and will seek to join the conversation about providing more affordable electricity.
TACO has met with Texas Sunset Advisory Commission staff regarding TCEQ’s antiquated measurement of meters and connection requirements for RV Parks. TACO sent a letter to the Sunset staff providing some recommendations, and aside from monitoring the sunset process will be meeting with individual members of the Sunset Advisory members to further discuss important policy changes to TCEQ.
It is heavy on many people’s mind (and utility bills) that the price of electricity is going up. This is due primarily from action taken by the Public Utility Commission (PUC) in response the Winter Storm Uri that almost became a significant disaster–and in some Texans’ lives was a true disaster. The actions taken by the PUC are complicated due to the novelty of how PUC and ERCOT is managing the electric grid. One of the concerns about the near-total outage last winter was ensuring enough reserve to fulfill the demand of electricity users. ERCOT has made investments to procure higher levels of reserve power than before, and to make it available faster. Modifications also include policy changes designed to make wholesale electricity prices rise quicker initially as conditions on the grid tighten, before topping out at a lower level than was allowed at the time of the February 2021 grid disaster. That move is designed to prompt more generators to come online sooner and help head off emergencies. Estimates of ERCOT’s price tag for buying more reserves from January 1 through May 31 this year range from $210 million to $385 million; the impact of the policyinduced changes to wholesale prices are estimated at about $475 million over that time. The forecast for the full-year amount, should it
The Governor’s office of Economic Development and Tourism is a successful office, especially on the tourism side of the division. A portion of the Hotel Occupancy Tax dollars are used to provide an advertising and marketing campaign to the U.S. and to key international markets to attract visitors to Texas. This successful function has led Texas to be the 3rd most-visited state in the nation and the 7th most-visited state by international visitors. TACO will support the continuation of the tourism division. FUTURE LEGISLATION FOR TACO
TACO is diligently working with its partners and supporters on a number of legislative fronts as TACO marches towards the January 2023 legislative session. TACO will have reintroduced liability protection legislation for RV Parks. In addition, TACO will have legislation filed that will bring TCEQ to modernization in terms of how water districts and Water supply Corporations provide water utilities at reasonable rates. TACO will continued on page 22 1. Austin-American Statesman “Changes to Texas’ power grid costing state hundreds of millions of dollars” June 21, 2022
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TACO GUIDE DISTRIBUTION IS GOING FANTASTIC THIS YEAR! Hundreds of RVers request the TACO Guide every month through our website TexasCampgrounds.com because of the Texas Saver Card. Plus we get requests for case shipments all the time. Below is a picture of cases requested in just two weeks last month.
For more information about advertising your park or services in the TACO Guide call 817-426-9395.
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ACCOUNTING / BOOKKEEPING - INSURANCE
V V
TACO VENDOR MEMBERS
ACCOUNTING / BOOKKEEPING CAMPGROUND REFUND Jim Dixon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 214- 546-7886 jim@campgroundrefund.com Performing no-risk contingency fee sales tax recovery refund on utilities and construction for RV Campgrounds. www.campgroundrefund.com FIRESIDE ACCOUNTING Lindsey Foos. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 303- 816-8528 lindsey@firesideaccounting.com A turnkey accounting solution offering full bookkeeping services to campgrounds, RV parks, RV resorts and multi-park businesses. www.firesideaccounting.com BANKING / FINANCE AMERIS BANK SBA & USDA LENDING Bruce Hurta. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281- 384-2595 bruce.hurta@amerisbank.com SBA & USDA lending - Ameris Bank is one of the top-ranked SBA & USDA lenders in the country, and is dedicated to helping small businesses grow. www.amerisbank.com JETSTREAM CAPITAL (A CITYSTREET CAPITAL COMPANY) Eve Griffi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 713-333-1638 egriffin@citystreetcapital.com Provide senior debt capital, participating debt and preferred equity structures to proven RV owners and operators. www.citystreetcapital.com CABLE TV & SATELLITE SYSTEMS *IT’S ALL ABOUT SATELLITES Barry Conley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-951-1979 barry@itsallaboutsatellites.com Stream TV over Wi-Fi | HD TV Systems | Broadband Internet | 100% Coverage Wi-Fi Networks. Proud to Celebrate our 25th Anniversary. DIRECTV Authorized Dealer since 1996. www.itsallaboutsatellites.com CAMPGROUND CONSULTING CAMPGROUND CONSULTING GROUP, LLC. Jayne Cohen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-897-8836 info@campgroundconsultinggroup.com National consulting group specializing in all aspects of RV park and campground development, investment and operations, land planning and design; feasibility studies, operational audits and more. www.campgroundconsultinggroup.com EOB CONSULTING LLC Ed O. Bridgman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 512-785-1379 EOB@EOB-consulting.com Feasibility Analysis, Business Plans, Site Design Layouts and Project Managing the construction of RV Destinations. www.EOB-Consulting.com GATED RENTALS Clayton Hagerman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 832-928-4780 chagerman@gatedrentals.com Developer and Operator of RV parks and tiny home communities for Working Class Americans. www.gatedrentals.com MATTHEWS CONSULTING GROUP Wendy Matthews. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 903-372-7777 wmatthewsbc@gmail.com Comprehensive fully integrated park and resort firm. Land/Park evaluations, site analysis, market studies, design, operations. www.matthewsbcg.com MERSMANN CONSULTING GROUP Amie Mersmann. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 832-494-7862 amie@mcg-hospitality.com Provides strategic planning, design, business planning, operational startup, marketing solutions, & resort management. www.mcg-hospitality.com MOORE’S CAMPGROUND CONSULTING Joe Moore. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 817-999-4108 moorescampgroundconsulting@gmail.com Professional campground assessment. www.moorescampgroundconsulting.com OUTDOOR DESIGN GROUP, INC. Matt Corrion. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 303-993-4811 info@odgdesign.com
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RV Park and campground land use planning, design, financial analysis, marketing, start-up and operations consulting. Also landscape design, irrigation planning & design and signage design. www.odgdesign.com CAMPGROUND EQUIPMENT BAKER PRODUCTS / FREEZE MISER Jeff Jubela. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .830-499-5360 jjubela@gmail.com Freeze protection. www.freezemiser.com CAMCO Greg McCool. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 336-543-3813 info@camco.net Campground store display, freshwater, hardware, enviro-friendly cleaners, sanitation products, sewer hoses, chemical tote tanks. www.camco.net FIRESIDE LODGE FURNITURE CO. Sara Pridgen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218-568-6188 sara@firesidelodgefurniture.com Rustic furniture made for your modern world. www.firesidelodgefurniture.com GREAT AMERICAN DIRECT Kendall Lecker. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 757-229-0567 sales@greatamericandirect.com Your Glamping Experts at Factory Direct Pricing! Mattresses, Wipe Downs, Mattress Protection, Futon Frames & Mattresses. www.greatamericandirect.com JAMESTOWN ADVANCED PRODUCTS Leslie Bamburoski . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-452-0639 marketing@jamestownadvanced.com Commercial site amenities for campgrounds, parks, and rec areas. www.jamestownadvanced.com KANGAROO JUMPER INC. Courtney Childress. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 865-387-8706 courtney@kangaroojumper.com We help make playgrounds even more fun, by delivering and installing the market’s leading Jumper product to you. www.kangaroojumper.com KRAFTSMAN COMMERCIAL PLAYGROUNDS & WATER PARKS Lauren Quinn. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-353-9599 info@kraftsmanplay.com Playgrounds, splash parks, shade, shelter, site amenities, and more! www.kraftsmanplay.com SIGN SOLUTIONS USA Kerry Briss. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 701-293-8599 sales@signsolutionsusa.com Manufactures and distributes best-in-class customized road signs and markers, mounting hardware, and temporary traffic control devices. www.signsolutionsusa.com *THE JUMP PAD Dennis Macready. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 865-387-5667 thejumppad@gmail.com The Jump Pad is a flat Jumping product with individual baffles that allow side by side jumping. www.thejumppad.com *THE PLAYWELL GROUP James Robertson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-726-1816 becky@playwellgroup.com The PlayWell Group has been providing commercial playground equipment and park products since 1987. www.playwellgroup.com CAMPGROUND MANAGEMENT ADVANCED OUTDOOR SOLUTIONS Kathleen Walsh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-579-9796 kwalsh@advanced-outdoor.biz RV resort, RV park, campground management - 3rd party management consulting. www.advanced-outdoor.biz HORIZON OUTDOOR HOSPITALITY Scott Foos. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 303-529-9770 connect@horizonoutdoors.com Full service management, financial management, and consulting for RV resorts, RV parks, and campgrounds, since 2004. www.HorizonOutdoors.com NEWPORT PACIFIC CAPITAL COMPANY INC.
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Karri Seeds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-334-6426 karri.seeds@newportpacific.com Management and development. www.newportpacific.com RV PARK MANAGEMENT, LLC Austin Faught. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 855-515-1777 contact@rvparkpm.com RV Park Management provides owners with professional management services and systems designed to maximize RV park investments. www.rvparkpm.com CONSTRUCTION KEELEY CONSTRUCTION Matthew Bradley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 210-850-3299 pfoley@keeleyconstruction.com We are here for all your exterior improvements - asphalt, concrete, dirt work. Customer service, quality, and safety never go out of style. www.keeleycompanies.com CREDIT CARD SERVICES CKMB ENTERPRISES, LLC Billy Sherman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 512-988-9555 bsherman@ckmbenterprises.com We provide our clients with affordable merchant service options, including credit card, debit card, and ACH processing and ATM services. www.ckmbenterprises.com *WHOLESALE PAYMENTS INC Noa Lager. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 877-848-9922 noa.lager@wholesalepayments.com Your Texas local credit card processor: no processing fees, local reps, 24/7 support, software integrations and more. www.clearviewmc.net ELECTRICAL SERVICES /SUPPLIES INFINITY POWER PARTNERS, LLC Nick Altman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 713-559-0558 nick@infinitypowerpartners.com Electricity and natural gas procurement management solutions, risk management service and marketing insight through the development of client-specific strategies. www.infinitypowerparnters.com TEXEN POWER COMPANY Tom Stubblefield. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-989-7440 tstubblefield@texenpower.com Aggregator agent for electric power/commercial electricity, save you up to 35%. www.texenpower.com UTILITY SUPPLY GROUP Heidi Doyle. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-800-2811 heidi@go-usg.com RV Park utility products. www.go-usg.com WILD ENERGY CO. Mike Sorensen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 833-563-6300 mike@wildenergyco.com Wireless automated electrical metering and monitoring. We automatically capture and record energy usage by customer. www.wildenergyco.com YOUR ELECTRICAL SOLUTIONS Margaret (Maggie) Linnell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 855-644-2400 sales@yourelectricalsolutions.net Electrical supplies for mobile home and RV parks. www.yourelectricalsolutions.net FRANCHISE SERVICES KOA Larry Brownfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 406-248-7444 franchisesales@koa.net A franchise marketing driven organization providing owners with onsite training and KOAU; providing support for technology and site upgrades to serve today’s public. www.ownakoa.com INSURANCE ARK ASSURANCE GROUP John Hinsley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 903-509-2292 jhinsley@arkassurance.com RV park insurance services. www.arkassurance.com
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ONLINE RESERVATION PROVIDER CONT. *CAMPLIFE INC. Roguer Rosa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 877-783-2367 marketing@camplife.com Our robust, customizable reservation system helps you save time, make money, and get back to doing what you love. Demo today! www.camplife.com CAMPSPOT Margo Mitchell. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 616-226-5500 sales@campspot.com Revenue-maximizing reservations and campground management software. www.software.campspot.com NEWBOOK Blake Burris . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 310-855-3773 marketing@newbook.cloud All-in-one campground management platform. www.newbook.cloud RESNEXUS Travis Orton .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 385-218-2637 info@resnexus.com Management software for any business operating a reservation system to rent, lease, or schedule for a camground. www.resnexus.com *ROVERPASS Lisa Senecal. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 947-517-6261 lisa@roverpass.com Reservation Systems, advertising/promotions, website services. www.roverpass.com PARK MODEL / GLAMPING ACCOMODATIONS ATHENS / CHAMPION PARK MODELS Dick Grymonpre. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 817- 402-0215 dgrymonprez@athensparkhomes.com Manufacturer of park models and RVs. www.athensparkhomes.com CONESTOGA WAGON CO. Jason Olson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 307-277-0525 holly@cwagons.com Luxury glamping wagons, a unique rental accommodation. www.conestogawagonco.com LELAND’S COMMERCIAL CABINS Carol Stevens. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 817-409-6513 carol@lelandscabins.com Cabins, portable buildings, RV covers. www.lelandscabins.com LONESOME YURTS AND TREEHOUSES Bob Erickson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218- 587-8733 bob@lonesomeyurts.com Elevate your glamping experience. www.lonesomeyurts.com PINNACLE PARK HOMES Matt Williams . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-574-5159 matt@pinnacleparkhomes.com Park model homes & cabins. www.pinnacleparkhomes.com PLAINSCRAFT COVERED WAGONS Dennis Steinman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 785-748-4588 info@plainscraft.net Create unforgettable glamping experiences with PlainsCraft Covered Wagons. Our wagons are built by hand in the heart of Kansas, not that far from where the Oregon Trail first began. Let’s talk about how we can build something together! www.plainscraft.net PLATINUM COTTAGES Penni Feil . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 903-675-2525 pfeil@platinumparkhomes.com Park model manufacturer. www.platinumcottages.com RECREATIONAL RESORT LIVING, LLC. Rebecca Moore. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 469-340-6029 hfl@recreationalresortliving.com Tiny Homes and Cabins: Simplicity - Sustainability - Serenity -Minimalism Without Compromise. www.recreationalresortliving.com
POOL AND WATER STRUCTURES WIZARD WORKS DESIGN GROUP Mark Aragona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 518-786-5253 marka@wizardworks.biz We design and build durable, cost-effective, easy to maintain, and irresistibly fun water attractions for your guests. www.wizardworks.biz PRINTING AND PUBLISHING *AGS GUEST GUIDES Michael Moore. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 877-518-1989 Michael@texasadvertising.net Guest guides, site maps and marketing. www.agspub.com REAL ESTATE BAEHRE REAL ESTATE LLC Russell Baehre. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 830-896-5050 info@rvparksforsale.com Industry leader, bringing more than 30 years of experience to the campground and RV real estate field. www.rvparksforsale.com COLLIERS INTERNATIONAL MANUFACTURED HOUSING GROUP Kristin Barham. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 561-479-1588 kristin.barham@colliers.com We focus exclusively on MH and RV communities throughout the U.S. and Canada. www.colliers.com CRD REALTY Ryan Dooley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 936-206-3184 ryan@crdrealty.com Real estate brokers that focus on buyer and seller representation of RV Communities. www.crdrealty.com NAI OUTDOOR HOSPITALITY BROKERS Bob Kaplan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 520-271-2304 bobkaplan@naiohb.com Professionals in outdoor hospitality brokerage specializing in the acquisition and disposition of RV Parks and Campgrounds. www.naiohb.com TEXAS COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE SERVICES - TEXAS CRES LLC Doug Larson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 713-824-3799 doug@texascres.com RV Park & Real Estate Specialists. www.texascres.com YALE REALTY & CAPITAL ADVISORS Dana Smith. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 303-323-5649 dana@yaleadvisors.com Real Estate Brokerage - specializing in brokerage and financing nationwide for the RV & manufactured housing industry. www.yaleadvisors.com RV DEALER, REPAIR & SERVICE CONVENIENCE RV PARTS & REPAIR Andy Townend. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 936-344-2027 convenrv@yahoo.com Fully-stocked RV Parts Store and RV Service Shop. Come and see us for all your RV Parts and repair needs. www.conveniencerv.com LAND N SEA DISTRIBUTION Shaunna Battles. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-432-7652 shaunna.battles@landnsea.com RV parts distributor. www.landnsea.net PPL MOTOR HOMES Courtney Casares Hernandez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 713-988-5555 courtney.c@pplmotorhomes.com RV consignment dealer, serving locations in Houston, Cleburne and New Braunfels. www.pplmotorhomes.com RV PARK & STORAGE ON YOUR WAY STORAGE Bill Brownfield. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 979-710-7102 customercare@onyourway359.com Safe & convenient RV parking in northwest Houston, avoiding Houston’s congested highways. www.onyourway359.com
Listings continued to next page SUMMER 2022
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INSURANCE CONT. - RV PARK & STORAGE
INSURANCE CONT. LEAVITT RECREATION & HOSPITALITY INS. Chris Hipple . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-525-2060 chris-hipple@leavitt.com Specialized Insurance for RV Parks, Campgrounds, & Resorts. #1 in the industry for over 40 years! www.lrhinsurance.com MARSHALL & STERLING CAMPGROUND INSURANCE PROGRAM Irene Jones. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-782-2926 ijones@marshallsterling.com Insurance broker with new, exclusive campground insurance carrier & industry-leading safety resources. www.marshallsterling.com/specialties/campgrounds-rv-parks *OUTDOOR INSURANCE SERVICES Frank Hursh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 832-497-5312 frankhursh@outdoorinsuranceservices.com Insurance for RV Parks, campgrounds, resorts, cabins, RVs, and travel trailers. www.outdoorinsuranceservices.com PHILADELPHIA INSURANCE Lance Goff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 469-221-7932 Lance.Goff@phly.com RV park insurance. www.phly.com ROWLEY INSURANCE Ken Rowley. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-880-9397 ken@rowleyinsurance.com RV park insurance. www.rowleyinsurance.com LAUNDRY EQUIPMENT *BEST WASH INC. James West. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 281-441-2465 james@bestwashinc.com Commercial laundry equipment, sales and service, designs and more. www.bestwashinc.com COMMERCIAL EQUIPMENT COMPANY John Francis. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 972-991-9274 john@ceclaundry.com Laundry equipment provider. www.ceclaundry.com MARKETING SERVICES ANDERSON’S BROCHURE DISTRIBUTION Donald Bennet. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 585-615-7752 info@campwithandersons.com Professional and cost-effective distribution of brochures, directories, and camping guides at RV and other shows. www.campwithandersons.com GOOD SAM Christine Distl. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-685-6246 cdistl@goodsam.com Travel guide, website, mobile app, and social media marketing. www.goodsam.com ONLINE RESERVATION PROVIDER ASTRA Skip Waisner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 518-218-5095 AstraParks@aspiraconnect.com Combining the power of Astra and the reach of ReserveAmerica. com, Astra is a leading provider of RV Park and Campground management software providing your park exclusive access to the 13 million outdoor recreation enthusiasts engaging on ReserveAmerica. com. www.aspiraconnect.com BOOKOUTDOORS - OUTDOOR VENTURES, INC. Brian Nolan. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 818-523-4872 brian@bookoutdoors.com The premier platform for planning and booking outdoor travel - book any campground, rent vehicles, buy gear & plan experiences. www.bookoutdoors.com CAMPGROUND COMMANDER LLC Mary Moeller. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 816-835-9571 mary@campgroundcommander.com Keep it simple! Fill your campground with Campground Commander online reservation software designed and created specifically for RV parks your size. Family owned and managed, our software helps to assure your campground stays full and running smoothly! www.campgroundcommander.com
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RV RENTALS - WIRELESS INTERNET PROVIDER (WI-FI)
RV RENTALS
RVSHARE LLC Steve Manes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 888-482-0234 campgrounds@rvshare.com RVshare is the world’s first and largest peer-to-peer RV rental marketplace in the US. www.rvshare.com STORE GOODS TAIL BANGERS Lisa St Clair. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 302-934-1125 lisa@tailbangers.com All-Natural Dog Treats by dog bakery Tail Bangers Inc. www.tailbangers.com WILCOR INTERNATIONAL Susan Corrigan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 800-346-2345 susanc@wilcor.net Camping goods - outdoor wholesale supplier. www.wilcor.net WILDTHINGS SNAP-ONS LLC Adina Powers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 415-457-0112 adina@wildthingstshirts.com Adventure clothing for Kids! www.wildlthingstshirts.com WATER TREATMENT INFILTRATOR WATER TECHNOLOGIES Steve Murdock. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 512-415-2446 smurdock@infiltratorwater.com Wastewater treatment solutions for residential and commercial systems with daily flows up to 300,000 gallons per day. www.deltatreatment.com
WEBSITE SERVICES / MOBILE APPS APP MY COMMUNITY Joe Duemig. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 636-459-5161 joe@armstrongsoft.com Custom mobile app provider. www.appmycommunity.com BIG RIG MEDIA LLC Jeff Beyer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-524-4744 sales@bigrigmedia.com Big Rig Media is the leading Digital Marketing & Website Development firm servicing the Outdoor Hospitality Industry. www.bigrigmedia.com TXAD WEB DEVELOPMENT & DESIGN Michael Moore . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 877-518-1989 michael@texasadvertising.net Website design and hosting, ADA Compliance Services, Adwords and Online Marketing. www.txadweb.com WIRELESS INTERNET PROVIDER (WI-FI) ACCESSPARKS Tim Rout. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 858-353-0845 sales@accessparks.com Fourteen years as end-to-end managed services provider (MSP), offering true broadband Wi-Fi to RV Parks nationwide. Every installation fiber-optic fed with 0 installation charges. We guarantee quality with over 30 million happy campers served annually. www.accessparks.com CC CONSULTING Colin Cassells. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-884-2294 sales@cassellsconsulting.com Technology solutions and Wi-Fi/internet provider. www.cassellsconsulting.com
DANA SMITH | 303-323-5649 Dana@yaleadvisors.com
Regional Director - Southwest
Y A L E A D V I S O R S . C O M SUMMER 2022
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WIRELESS INTERNET PROVIDER (WI-FI) CONT. CHECKBOX Jim Ganley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 866-345-9434 info@checkboxsystems.net CheckBox provides affordable, reliable, easy-to-manage Wi-Fi systems and services to thousands of locations across the U.S. www.checkboxsystems.net SKYWEB NETWORKS Wayne Heminghouse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 855-759-9434 info@skywebnetworks.net Skyweb Networks offers affordable Wi-Fi solutions that are guaranteed to be effective. www.skywebwifi.com TENGO INTERNET Kimberly Chung. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 512-469-7660 kchung@tengointernet.com Wireless internet provider. www.tengointernet.com WIDE OPEN WI-FI Bruce LeVine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 972-731-6767 info@wideopenwi-fi.com Wide Open Wi-Fi will design, install & maintain a high-speed Wi-Fi environment at a cost far below competitors, increasing profits and marketability. www.wideopenwi-fi.com
*These vendors provide a TACO members-only discount or service.
FIVE WAYS
TO USE TEXT MESSAGING TO COMMUNICATE WITH GUESTS
By Haley Dalian, originally posted on software.campspot.com
Did you know that text messaging campaigns have an average message open rate of up to 98%, compared to email at just 20%? With open rates like that it makes sense to get in touch with your guests via text, especially in certain instances. Here are five of them. GENERAL UPDATES: Need to share facility updates with your guests? Pool hours changing? Shower maintenance taking place? New asphalt being poured? No problem. Texting is the way to go. Where posts on the bulletin board might go unnoticed, this is one way to get the message out to everyone on site. CAMPGROUND EMERGENCIES: In the case of extreme weather, a simple heads up can go a long way. If you have less time, in the case of an approaching tornado and sirens for example, a short and direct message will be even more appreciated in the moment. CAMPGROUND PROMOTIONS: No one likes ending their vacation. Why not offer a real-time promotion for guests at your property to extend their stay by one night for half the rate? This is a great tactic during your slower season or during times of low occupancy. You can also
entice guests to become repeat campers; send a message on their last day thanking them for their stay and offering a 10% discount off their next booking or a BOGO deal. CAMPGROUND ACCESS: Whether it’s a private shower room or gate code, some of your facilities may have restricted entry points. A simple way to remind your guests about access codes, and deliver further instructions upon arrival, is through text. CAMPGROUND RULES REMINDER: When you need a fast and concise way to remind guests about the speed limit, noise curfew, or no parking zones texting is the ideal solution. This is especially handy if there have been frequent or recent violations to specific rules. Ideally, you will only have to send messages of this nature sparingly.
Before you add text to your communication, make sure you are in compliance with rules and regulations. The biggest difference between oneto-one text messaging, such as to a friend or family member, and texting as a business, is permission. As a business, you can only send text messages to campers who have opted in to receiving them. Read the full post on software.campspot.com [https://software.campspot.com/blog] to learn more about compliance and how to leverage texting to communicate with guests.
IF YOUR SITE ISN’T UP TO DATE,
AGS Guest Guides
TXAD HAS A SOLUTION YOU NEED.
EXTREME COSTEFFECTIVE This plan includes all of the basics that most campgrounds/RV parks will need for their website.
EXTREME CUSTOM If you have website
At Home In Texas
requirements that don’t fit into the Extreme Cost-Effective Package, the Custom Package will be the option to choose.
AGS has been proudly providing FREE guest guides & site maps in Texas for more than 36 years. We’re looking forward to many, many more!
Ask us how we can develop a solution for you.
877-518-1989 www.AGSGuestGuides.com SUMMER 2022
877.518.1989 www.TXADWeb.com
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Need Funds? Developing or Expanding? Would you like to speak with either a public institution (Bank) or private investor who is HUNGRY to invest in the RV industry? Berkshire Hathaway, Fervent Capital, Ameris Bank, Crown Capital, Everlasting Capital, Trustmark, SBA, VMC . . . I prepare Feasibility Analysis on RV Destinations and Boat and RV Storage facilities each year. Many people ask me to introduce them to investors. Often investors ask me to introduce them to people who have valid projects. I have decided to connect these groups by inviting everyone to the first.
Investors Introductory Conference Hosted by the most technologically advanced RV Destination in the world. Homestead RV Community: Website: www.EOB-Consulting.com Website: www.HomeRVC.com 10550 Pioneer Rd. Theodore, AL. 36582 Email: EOB@EOB-Consulting.com Phone: (512) 785-1379 On October 19, 2022 from 8:00 AM CST to 5:00 PM CST
Participants only pay $100.00 to attend. Call by October 10, 2022 to make your reservation. Sponsors are anxious to make your dream a reality!
EOB Consulting
Identify correct RV Destination Type Prepare Competitive Analysis Design Layout Apply Wetland Mitigation Estimate Construction Cost Analysis and Prepare Cash Flow Analysis Provide Feasibility Analysis Present Business Plan for Investors Project Manager of the Construction Process Marketing and Management Tour the most technologically advanced RV Destination in the world. Homestead RV Community Website: Website: Email: Phone:
www.EOB-Consulting.com www.HomeRVC.com EOB@EOB-Consulting.com (512) 785-1379
SUMMER 2022
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ARE YOU
AN RV PARK, CAMPGROUND, OR RESORT?
By Michael Moore, General Manager AGS Guest Guides, a division of Texas Advertising.
WHAT’S IN A NAME? With the influx of cash coming into the campground industry, accommodations are getting bigger, with more things to do on-site than ever before. Now, when you hear of a nice, new campground that has the word ‘resort’ in the name, they mean it. On-site dining and entertainment, shuttles to tourist attractions and more are all characteristics of a resort – whether it’s in the campground industry or not – with the intended goal of keeping visitors on-site as much as possible, though that is a bit counterintuitive regarding nomad guests.
community to facilitate the things your customers will need the most. What are those? Food, for starters. Remember that the stove is the least used item in an RV! And, as much as the Hunt Brothers Pizza company would love your campers to eat its pizza three times a day, chances are they won’t. (Personally, I would, but that’s a different story.) Your customers need a quick and easy way to know what there is to eat in town. Will some of them Google it? Maybe, but surveys show that many campers are looking to disconnect from their electronics — that’s why they are CAMPING! Will a lot of them ask your front office what’s good around here? You bet; and having that info to distribute is critical.
Back to the original question — what are you, and what’s in a name? Being a campground resort as described above is great and a real benefit. It should be everyone’s goal to provide top-notch service, clean facilities, and a great experience. RV parks, campgrounds and resorts can do all those things and many, if not most, do exactly that.
Visitors to your campground typically aren’t from your community and don’t know the local haunts. Could they go to the local Applebee’s? They could, but they can do that anywhere. They can only get the local flavor at a local place.
But truth in advertising still matters. For example, if you have a very nice campground but not the amenities of a resort — a pool, on-site dining or take out, water park…etc. — you wouldn’t want to give people the wrong impression by naming yourself as having those things. Keep in mind you only get to make a first impression ONCE! The good news is that with the amount of RVers on the road, not all of them are looking for an all-inclusive property. They’re OK paying a reasonable rate for a site if it has full hookups, great customer service and it’s easy to get in and out of.
What about cleaning and maintaining their rig? As much as we hope and pray RVs don’t need a fix, they almost always do. But your guests don’t know who to call when they’re hundreds of miles away from home. That’s where you come in, with your preferred vendors. Campground operators don’t want the liability of an on-site mobile wash or on-site tech, so they refer their guests to a trusted source to come in and do the work.
Speaking of resort properties, how can you give your customers a great camping experience without the luxury of having dozens of amenities on-site? That part is surprisingly simple. Engage fully with your
And what about the kids and the pets? Your campground may have a pool, jumping pillow or pet park, but are your guests coming to you just for those items? What about a water park or other local attractions? Are you one of the only campgrounds in America that has a licensed vet or pet groomer on-site? If not, your guests need to know who you recommend. The one thing COVID taught us all is how important medical and pharmacy services are, so have the info ready for your customers.
O L L HE ME IS A
MY N
You see, you might be more like a resort than you think (without giving a false impression), because there is very little that you can’t offer your customers through networking opportunities. Know what you are and advertise accordingly. Don’t just market what you have; market your network to your customers when they arrive. Promote the services you have, but also be sure they know how to access the services you don’t.H SUMMER 2022
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Building Better WiFi Remote Working Streaming Online Learning
Is your WiFi Ready? The same remote tools, Zoom meetings and VPNs that your guests use to work from home enable many of them to travel, work and play anywhere if they have reliable connectivity. Is your WiFi ready?
CheckBox connects your guests & your staff. CheckBox is the affordable, scalable WiFi solution providing reliable connectivity for your guests and secure connectivity for your staff and management team. All from one system. Let CheckBox help you quickly deploy new and upgraded WiFi systems to keep guests happy and keep them on your property.
Large on-hand inventory ready to ship today No required contracts or monthly fees Includes S/A/F/E - the Survey And Feedback Engine Includes MultiNet - Multiple networks with one system Live, dedicated U.S. based support for Staff and Management Optional support for guests Ready to upgrade your WiFi system? call 866.345.9434
or email info@CheckBoxSystems.net for a no obligation layout and quote.
www.CheckBoxSystems.net 866.345.9434 SUMMER 2022
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NEW CAMPGROUND MEMBERS REGION 4 CONT. MILLER CREEK RV RESORT 5618 SOUTH US HWY 281 • JOHNSON CITY, TX 78636 SCHATZILAND RV RESORT 3169 FLORENCE STREET • SAN MARCOS, TX 78666 SKYE TEXAS HILL COUNTRY RESORT 16880 US 87 • FREDERICKSBURG, TX 78624 REGION 5 GRAND TEXAS RV RESORT 22846 STATE HIGHWAY 242 • NEW CANEY, TX 77357 SHILOH RV PARK 5539 FM 762 • RICHMOND, TX 77469 TRIPL RV PARK 4218 FM 2611 • BRAZORIA, TX 77422 REGION 6 CREEKSIDE RV PARK 642 10TH STREET • FLORESVILLE, TX 78114 QUAIL SPRINGS MH & RV PARK 2727 E MAIN STREET • UVALDE, TX 78801
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IS THE RV INDUSTRY
READY FOR THE ELECTRIC VEHICLE REVOLUTION? PART 3 OF 3
By: Tom Davidock
RV DESIGN AND INNOVATION
and trucks power up. As a result, campgrounds will need to upgrade their sites, but RVs will also need to become more self-sufficient.
One of the best ways to combat the towing limitations of EV trucks is to build lighter and more aerodynamic RVs. The traditional rectangular boxes that the RV community currently hauls around simply won’t work in an EV-only market. So over the next decade, we’ll need to see newer designs that offer lighter weights while not compromising livable space.
Just as RVs indeed to integrate with tow vehicles, they will also need to integrate with campground electrical connections. Larger onboard batteries on both trucks and within RVs will need to serve as power-hubs. As a result, the campground’s electricity demand can be offset with power supplied directly from the rig. If RVs are built to be more self-sufficient, they can learn to sip electricity from the grid rather than chug it at high-demand times.
RVs of the future will also need to work more seamlessly with the tow vehicle. One challenge with truck battery capacity is simply space. Until battery technology allows for smaller cells, space will be one of the constraining factors. RVs, however, can provide that space. For example, an extra battery bank, necessary for a longer range, can be integrated directly into the RV. This design can give the tow vehicle the extra travel distance needed by the RVer. As an added benefit, the electric components allowing this can supply the electric needs of the RV. This type of collaboration is something that we need to see.
Powering a vehicle is much more demanding than powering an RV when parked. One of the future goals of EVs is to serve as a generator replacement for homes. For example, when equipped with an extended range battery, the Ford Lightning can power an entire house, for three whole days, based on household usage of 30 kilowatt-hours. Ford says that the battery can stretch for even ten days when rationing usage. Applying this same technology to an RV can theoretically meet the electricity demand of campers for days on end.
In 2020, Camping World and Lordstown Motors, an EV truck manufacturer, announced a partnership to build an integrated electric RV/Truck. As of 2021, it appears that this partnership may not come to fruition; however, the concept is sound. RV manufacturers must work in unison with truck manufacturers to innovate and develop creative solutions.
However, accomplishing this means that RV and truck batteries must be big enough to get you to the campground and supply you with electricity while you’re there. They also must be designed to recharge efficiently. RV and EV trucks must integrate smart charging, balancing use and recharge needs when connected to the grid.
Another exciting concept has been introduced by THOR Industry’s Airstream, called eStream. The idea centers around an RV with an integrated electric powertrain. The eStream features a high-voltage, electric drivetrain, which powers the trailer’s wheels and thus reduces the tow vehicle’s fuel or energy consumption. The electric drivetrain can also remotely park the RV without the tow vehicle – eliminating the need to back into a campsite. The battery pack also makes it an excellent off-grid vehicle.
FINAL THOUGHTS
As the world moves towards a fully electric vehicle fleet, the industries that rely on these vehicles will need to adapt. Technology is advancing at lightning speed and will continue to do so in years to come. The RV industry must innovate to be ready for this certain future. However, they can’t do this alone. We need to see collaboration across the board from the auto industry, RV community, transportation industry, and federal, state, and local governments.
However, the eStream concept is not the first of its kind. Across the pond in Germany, the caravan maker Dethleff has been working for nearly five years on an electric-drivetrain towable RV. In 2021, its e.home Coco underwent testing, hauling it across the Alps on a single charge towed by an electric vehicle (a passenger vehicle). These innovations will get us to a place where EV technology can work for RVers. We need to see more of them.
No single entity can solve the many challenges ahead. It’s going to take collaboration. The RV industry can’t simply wait for EV truck technology to advance, just as truck manufacturers can’t assume RVers will simply adapt to smaller RVs. Innovation must happen in unison and with intention. When it does, we’ll have a whole new camping experience. We are sitting on the cusp of change, and years from now, we’ll look back in amazement at how far we’ve come.
EV-READY CAMPGROUNDS
As mentioned in a previous article, one of the challenges for the future EV RVing experience is the needed upgrades to the campground electrical infrastructure. Outdated and insufficient electrical connections at RV parks will undoubtedly run into problems when dozens of RVs SUMMER 2022
By Tom Davidock
To read the article in its entirety go to https://outdoormiles.com/ electric-trucks-and-the-rv-industry/ which addresses some of the challenges of the EV revolution including batteries, charging stations, RV design and size, and towing vehicles. H 20
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TACO QUARTERLY LEGISLATIVE REPORT continued from page 9
Texas Lt. Governor Patrick stated stated $4 billion from the massive budget surplus should be returned to Texas property owners next year. H
play a role, if necessary, in how municipalities define subdivisions as it pertains to RV Parks, to ensure no onerous regulations appear that adversely affect RV Park expansion or creation.
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FINALLY, SOME GOOD NEWS! REGARDING THE TEXAS LEGISLATIVE BUDGET…
Record-high tax revenues over the last year will give Texas lawmakers an astounding extra $27 billion to spend in the 2023 legislative session, the state’s top accountant said Thursday.
Remember to always call a TACO Vendor Member first for support & services!
In total, lawmakers will have $149.07 billion in general funds, Comptroller Glenn Hegar said. Going into the last regular legislative session in 2021, lawmakers had $112.5 billion at their disposal. And that number could continue to grow. The extra $27 billion comes from more revenue coming into the state than expected during the current biennium. Other factors could continue to push it up. Lawmakers in the upcoming legislative session will also have $13.6 billion in their savings account, known as the rainy-day fund — a $3.5 billion increase that is more than double the amount the savings account normally grows heading into a legislative year, Hegar said. The Texas Legislature convenes every other year. SUMMER 2022
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