The decision to increase the marketing budget followed a discussion regarding the importance of substantial investment to enhance outreach efforts. Members emphasized that a $10,000 budget was insufficient to make a meaningful impact. The council recognized the need for a more robust financial commitment, with a council member recounting business owners’ arguments for a larger marketing investment, noting, “you can’t just be doing…$10,000 and then expect to bring in and really move the needle.” Despite the ambitious proposal, the council also agreed to continue utilizing their existing $12,000 budget to promote local events if the full $100,000 allocation could not be secured.

In addition to the marketing budget increase, the council reviewed and approved an increase in the budget for a local boot camp from $2,000 to $5,000. A council member was tasked with developing a detailed business plan to present to the council.

As the meeting progressed, the topic of Main Street Live events gained attention. Council members expressed enthusiasm for organizing another event before the Cultural Affairs Committee assumes responsibility in the upcoming fiscal year. Highlighting the success of previous events in drawing crowds and fostering community engagement, a member remarked, “Every time we do a Main Street live, we do draw a crowd.” However, logistical concerns about organizing the event were raised, particularly regarding coordination with the Cultural Affairs Committee. A council member noted a favorable relationship with Felicia from the committee.

The council also explored the potential for the town to assume financial responsibilities for organizing these events, shifting from previous practices where the committee fronted costs. A proposal was made to allocate $3,000 directly from the town’s budget to cover expenses such as band selection and stage setup. The motion received unanimous approval.

The meeting also delved into the town’s membership with the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce. There was a discussion about the benefits of this membership, with some members questioning the return on investment given the varying levels of participation. A member emphasized the Chamber’s potential value, particularly in promoting local initiatives like a business boot camp, stating, “we just don’t use it.” A motion to amend the budget to retain the Chamber membership was introduced and received strong support.

In old business, the council reviewed updates on the “Best of Miami Lakes” initiative, a program aimed at enhancing marketing efforts and community engagement. The timeline for the event was outlined, with promotional activities set to begin in August. Council members agreed to review existing award categories and provide feedback before reconvening in July to ensure a well-organized approach moving forward.

Additionally, the council addressed concerns about the visibility and promotion of the upcoming culinary bike tour. Members expressed a desire to maintain the event due to its potential economic benefits, though funding for this year’s tour was uncertain. The council discussed the event’s costs, including videography and logistics, and explored alternative funding options or partnerships with the Chamber of Commerce to proceed with the event.

As the meeting wrapped up, members turned their attention to the planning of an upcoming business boot camp scheduled for September. Concerns about venue capacity were raised, and discussions included sponsoring a business networking social in collaboration with the BNI and Chamber. The urgency of finalizing these plans was underscored, with a proposed $500 sponsorship for an event occurring shortly after the meeting.