Keys campaign gets underway

Though starting a bit later this year, the 2016-17 Keys to the City event is in full swing. Travel and Tourism Director Amanda Moeller reported at the board’s Dec. 20 meeting that the key chains have finally come in.

Keys to the City was originally scheduled to begin in November, but a shipping issue kept the key chains from getting here in time. Due to the starting delay, the campaign will last the majority of winter and end March 19.

Keys to the City provides special key chains to local hoteliers, who can then give them to travelers. The key chains allow for discounts at local businesses, and Moeller recently reported at least nine new businesses have signed up for this year’s campaign, and nearly every business in town is on board.

As for the key chains being late, Moeller said she’s heard no negative feedback. Keys to the City, she said, provides an opportunity for businesses to self- and cross-promote, as those giving them out can also direct people to participating businesses. The discounts can also vary from place to place; some businesses might give a percentage discount, while others have a “buy one, get one free” or similar deal.