Hilton Head marketing council approves $200K budget for digital initiatives

The Town Council of Hilton Head Island convened on Tuesday, May 6, 2025, at 3:00 PM to discuss various agenda items, primarily focusing on marketing initiatives and budget allocations for the upcoming fiscal period.

The meeting began with a detailed discussion regarding the allocation of funds for marketing efforts. Council members reviewed a proposal for a budget of $200,000 aimed at enhancing the town's digital presence and promoting tourism through a dedicated golf microsite on the HiltonHeadIsland.org website. This microsite is designed to drive traffic and generate leads through targeted digital advertising and social media campaigns.

Council members emphasized the importance of aligning marketing strategies with community values, particularly in light of recent efforts to promote ecotourism and support for the Gullah community's businesses and cultural initiatives. Mayor Pro Tem Alex Brown noted that the marketing council, along with town staff and various committees, had thoroughly reviewed the proposal, highlighting the need for marketing to reflect the town's priorities.

The discussion also touched on the significance of maintaining Hilton Head's unique appeal, including its beaches and community atmosphere, which continue to attract visitors. Council member Becker acknowledged the positive feedback from surveys indicating that many visitors return and recommend the island to others based on their experiences.

Following the discussions, a motion was made to approve the proposed marketing budget. The motion received unanimous support from the council, passing with a vote of 7-0.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to enhancing Hilton Head Island's marketing efforts while ensuring that these initiatives resonate with the community's values and priorities. The next steps will involve implementing the approved budget and continuing to refine marketing strategies in collaboration with local stakeholders.