The Petoskey Downtown Management Board (DMB) made significant strides in enhancing local marketing efforts during its recent meeting on August 20, 2025. A key decision was made to allocate sponsorship funds specifically for marketing downtown, rather than redirecting them back to the parking fund. This move aims to bolster the visibility and appeal of the downtown area, which is crucial for local businesses.

The board discussed the integration of social media marketing for sponsors, ensuring that they receive promotional support through multiple posts, thereby enhancing their visibility within the community. This approach is expected to strengthen the connection between local businesses and potential customers, fostering a more vibrant downtown atmosphere.

In terms of budget adjustments, the board noted an increase in revenue from assessments and sponsorships. However, there was a notable reduction of $27,000 in expenditures related to beautification efforts, which have now been shifted to the parking fund. Additionally, cuts were made to expenditures for events such as sidewalk sales and winter weekends, reflecting a strategic reevaluation of funding priorities.

The board also addressed the future of local events, including the flower festival and winter wonderland weekend. While there was interest in potentially sponsoring the flower festival, the board decided to hold off on significant funding until more data on its impact on sales and traffic could be gathered. The consensus was to support these events in a limited capacity until they demonstrate growth and community engagement.

Looking ahead, the DMB plans to revise the budget based on feedback from this meeting and present an updated version at the September meeting. This proactive approach underscores the board's commitment to fostering a thriving downtown environment while ensuring that financial resources are allocated effectively. The discussions reflect a clear focus on enhancing community engagement and supporting local businesses through targeted marketing and event sponsorships.