During the September 30, 2024, City Council Work Session in Mitchell, South Dakota, a significant funding request for community marketing took center stage. Johanna, the Marketing Lead for the Mitchell Area Chamber of Commerce, proposed an increase of $25,000 to the marketing budget, bringing the total to $275,000 for the year.

This funding is aimed at enhancing community marketing efforts, which include promoting local events and encouraging residents to shop locally, especially during the holiday season and hunting season. Johanna emphasized the importance of a mixed media approach, utilizing various platforms such as newspapers, radio, Spotify, YouTube, and social media to effectively reach diverse demographics.

The request highlights the Chamber's commitment to driving tourism and local engagement through targeted advertising strategies. Johanna presented data supporting the effectiveness of their marketing initiatives, indicating a focus on attracting overnight visitors to Mitchell.

The discussion underscored the city's ongoing investment in community projects, including streetscape improvements and plaza expansions, funded through previous budget allocations. As the council considers this funding request, the potential impact on local businesses and tourism remains a key point of interest for the community.