In a recent Mapleton City Council meeting, Public Relations Specialist Stephanie Skinner outlined her vision for enhancing communication within the community. Having joined the city just two months ago, Skinner emphasized the importance of trust, transparency, and engagement in her approach to public relations. She aims to ensure that both long-time residents and newcomers feel informed and valued.

Skinner proposed expanding communication efforts through targeted email campaigns using the Everbridge system, allowing residents to opt-in for updates on city meetings, construction projects, and community events. She noted a significant increase in social media engagement, with a 200% rise in reach and over 350 new followers on the city’s main pages. However, she acknowledged that not all residents rely on social media, prompting her to advocate for a multi-channel approach that includes printed newsletters and the city website as the primary information hub.

The meeting also featured discussions on the city’s branding efforts, which aim to reinforce Mapleton's identity. Council members expressed enthusiasm for initiatives that would engage residents and promote community pride. One council member suggested hosting citywide events, such as outdoor cinema screenings, to showcase a recently produced video that highlights Mapleton's history and culture. This initiative aims to foster a deeper connection among residents and newcomers, helping them understand the community's unique character.

As Mapleton continues to grow, with new developments on the south end of town, the council is focused on ensuring that all residents feel included and informed about the changes happening in their city. The discussions from this meeting reflect a commitment to building a cohesive community through effective communication and engagement strategies.