The recent Tourism Commission meeting held on July 17, 2025, in Monona, Wisconsin, focused on funding allocations for local events and the marketing strategies aimed at boosting tourism in the area. The discussions highlighted the importance of community engagement and the economic impact of events on local businesses.

One of the primary topics was the funding request for a significant upcoming event, which last year received $29,060. The commission is now considering how to effectively market this event to attract more participants and visitors. The marketing strategy includes reaching out to schools that have previously participated, providing them with hotel and restaurant information, and utilizing social media and mailings to spread the word.

A notable point of discussion was the budget for judges' fees, which amounts to $10,000. These fees cover professional adjudicators from neighboring states who not only judge the performances but also offer clinics to participants, enhancing the educational value of the event. The commission also discussed the concessions budget, which aims to keep food prices affordable for attendees. Last year, the event attracted around 2,500 visitors, generating significant revenue from concessions.

Concerns were raised about the potential for a $12,000 loss if attendance does not meet expectations. However, the commission expressed confidence in the event's ability to draw crowds and generate hotel stays, which are crucial for local businesses. The staff noted that this event is one of the easier ones to track in terms of hotel occupancy, providing valuable data on its economic impact.

The commission is considering granting the full funding request, which would leave a balance of $24,000 for future applications. Discussions also touched on future funding strategies, including potential requirements for groups requesting over $20,000 to demonstrate their ability to attract hotel stays and provide financial transparency from past events.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the commission's commitment to supporting local events that foster community spirit and stimulate the local economy. As the commission prepares for future funding cycles, it aims to balance support for established events with the need for accountability and measurable outcomes.