Keith County Fair secures $8K grant for promotions and plans accessibility upgrades

The Keith County Board of Commissioners meeting on October 30, 2024, focused on several key topics, including updates on grants, tourism initiatives, and community improvements.

One of the most significant discussions was about a successful $8,000 promotional grant from the Keith County Ag Society for the Keith County Fair. This funding was utilized across various platforms, including digital, print, and radio, to enhance visibility and engagement for the event. The fair's expenditures were reported to be just under $10,000, and all financial activities adhered to the necessary guidelines. Additionally, the Ag Society plans to resubmit a larger grant in February aimed at improving accessibility at the fairgrounds, particularly for individuals with disabilities.

In terms of tourism, the county reported a positive trend in lodging taxes, with an increase of $28,800 compared to the previous year. This growth is attributed to a resurgence in visitor numbers, particularly during the summer months. The county ranked seventh in lodging tax revenue among Nebraska counties, trailing behind larger counties but showing promising growth.

The meeting also highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance tourism materials, including updates to the county's lake guide and promotional brochures. New table covers featuring QR codes were introduced for use at promotional events, allowing for easy access to information about local attractions. The integration of the new website with local kiosks was noted as a significant improvement for visitor navigation.

Furthermore, the meeting touched on the upcoming Lincoln Highway National Convention, scheduled for June 2025 in Ogallala, which is expected to attract between 200 to 300 attendees. This event is anticipated to further boost local tourism and showcase the region's offerings.

Overall, the meeting underscored the county's commitment to enhancing community engagement through effective use of grants and tourism initiatives, positioning Keith County as a growing destination in Nebraska.