Members of the Guymon Convention and Tourism Board used the Jan. 15 meeting to push forward planning on staffing, marketing and community outreach ahead of a large nearby energy project.

Speaker 2 said the board hopes to hire a dedicated Convention & Tourism staff member for 2026 and asked when applications would be posted "so hopefully hiring a CT, Convention on Tourism person" can take effect. The staffing proposal prompted discussion about how the position could help promote events, manage an updated brochure and maintain the community calendar.

Board members reported that an incoming project developed by Blattner with NextEra involvement is expected to begin in February. Speaker 2 said the project covers roughly 500 acres and estimated "up to 400 employees" could be on site for about 15–18 months. Speaker 3 confirmed speaking with Tanner from NextEra and said the company suggested an 18-month timeframe.

Members focused on how to welcome the incoming workforce and capture visitor spending. Ideas included a free community cookout at Bob's Bar, a downtown "shop and dine" night with a band, or an evening reception at City Hall. Speakers suggested inviting local nonprofits and businesses to participate and proposed asking Blattner/NextEra to consider sponsorship or donations to local causes.

Marketing tasks were also discussed: the board reported low brochure stock and requested corrections to the current contractor's proofs before ordering more. Members recommended adding an events list and nonprofit information on the brochure's reverse side and placing a QR code that links to the city app and community calendar so visitors can find events easily.

Board members asked staff to contact NextEra representatives (Tyler/Tanner were named in the transcript) to confirm arrival dates and recommended placing a funding item on the next agenda to pay for a welcoming event. Several members favored scheduling a March Friday "shop and dine" if February proved too busy for organizers.

Next steps recorded in the meeting: staff to confirm contractor and brochure quantities, post or announce the CT position application timing, contact NextEra for exact crew arrival dates, and add a funding request for a welcoming event to the next meeting agenda.