During a recent city council meeting, Sterling Heights officials discussed the ongoing branding and marketing efforts aimed at enhancing the community's image and attracting new residents and businesses. The council considered extending an agreement with Identity Marketing and Public Relations LLC for consultant services, with an estimated annual expenditure of $250,000.

Community Relations Director Melanie Davis highlighted the need for a cohesive city brand, which emerged from stakeholder forums conducted as part of the Vision 2040 process. Residents expressed a desire for a clearer understanding of the community's identity and stories. The city has partnered with Identity Marketing for about a year, focusing on storytelling to promote local businesses and engage residents.

Brandon Chestnut from Identity Marketing presented metrics indicating the campaign's success, reporting nearly 20 million impressions across various platforms, including significant engagement on social media. The campaign, titled \"Look No Further,\" aims to elevate the city's narrative and attract new residents by showcasing local stories and businesses.

The council also addressed community concerns regarding the length and cost of the marketing contract, with one resident questioning the necessity of a five-year commitment. In response, officials emphasized the importance of sustained marketing efforts to build the city's reputation and drive economic growth.

As the meeting concluded, the council moved to accept the proposal from Identity Marketing, signaling a commitment to continue the branding initiative and further develop the city's marketing strategy. The ongoing efforts are expected to include targeted messaging for different neighborhoods within Sterling Heights, enhancing the community's appeal to potential newcomers.