The Arkansas Rental Dealers Association [ARDA] held its annual meeting on May 15 at the Embassy Suites in Little Rock. Highlights included updates on projects, a legislative update, board member elections, and planning the 2019-2020 year.
ARDA President Terah Vail notes that a highlight was being able to update members about the projects ARDA has been working on in the last year. “We were able to complete a number of key projects in 2018-2019 that have prepared us to better serve our members in the coming years,” says Vail.
Many members were excited to receive a legislative update from APRO General Counsel Ed Winn III. Winn gave a wonderful overview of the legislative history of the rent-to-own industry in Arkansas, sharing his expertise while discussing the history and state statutes that make Arkansas unique. He also gave a great overview of issues around the country that could affect the rent-to-own industry in a number of areas, including human resources, payroll, consumer credit, tax liability, marketing, safety compliance, and more. All dealers in attendance were attentive and happy to learn and ask questions.
ARDA added three new vendors this year: Al Benson with Central File, John Blair with PTS Financial Services, and Ovi Cohen with Technical Pro. PTS Financial Services generously sponsored lunch, and Technical Pro brought merchandise to show.
ARDA members voted to keep the board of directors unchanged this year except for one position: Scott Houchin with Rent One replaced Rachel Pearson with Pay-Less Rentals as Treasurer. The 2019-2020 ARDA board of directors are Terah Vail, president; Candice Hill, vice president; Kayla Milner, secretary; Scott Houchin, Treasurer; Wally Moon, vendor representative; and board members Jose Palacios and Brandon Cummings.
“We are excited about the 2019-2020 year for ARDA,” says Vail. “Our focus next year is building membership in the state, and working to offer better educational and networking opportunities for members and dealers. The rent-to-own industry is strong in the state of Arkansas, and we will work to make sure it stays that way!”
ARDA has tentatively set the 2020 meeting dates for May 13-14 in Little Rock. Mark your calendars now and plan to attend!
