Commission Approves $5,000 Funding for Wausau Artrageous Weekend Marketing Efforts

The Wausau City Room Tax Commission made a pivotal decision at their recent meeting, approving a $5,000 funding allocation for the Wausau Artrageous Weekend. This decision comes amid discussions about the event's marketing strategy and the need for better collaboration among participating venues.

Commission members expressed concerns about the lack of representation from the event organizers during the meeting, which led to uncertainty regarding the effectiveness of their advertising plans. One member noted, “If you’re not gonna take the time or the care to come here and really talk to us... it seems pretty legit to me to come and sit here.” This sentiment highlighted the importance of direct communication and transparency when it comes to funding public events.

The commission acknowledged that the event encompasses multiple venues, including the 400 Block, Art in the Park, and the Woodson Museum, which could benefit from a more unified marketing approach. Members emphasized the potential for greater synergy if the organizations worked together, stating, “If there was a more concerted effort, I think all of it would do better.”

Ultimately, the commission decided to fund the event at half of the requested amount, reflecting both support for the arts and a desire for improved collaboration in future endeavors. The motion to grant $5,000 was passed unanimously, signaling a commitment to fostering local culture while also ensuring accountability in the use of public funds. The commission's next steps will likely involve outreach to the event organizers to encourage better communication and planning for future events.