CVB reports spike in visits and online engagement; commissioners recognize Visitation Center volunteer

Jessica Schwartzkopf, executive director of the Greene County Convention & Visitors Bureau, told the Board of Greene County Commissioners on May 7 that a new marketing strategy has increased visitation and online engagement.

"There is a 50 percent increase in group activity over last year which means more visitors, more overnight stays, and more support for the local economy," Schwartzkopf said. She reported a 20 percent jump in new digital followers and views up 110 percent, and highlighted the Coffee Trail with more than 2,000 check-ins and the America 250 History and Heritage Trail with over 2,500 digital passport check-ins. Schwartzkopf credited a mix of print advertising, an expanded digital presence and partnerships for the results and previewed upcoming events such as Hamvention (on pace to exceed last year’s attendance of 36,000), the Creek Classic Soccer Tournament, the Great American Sports Memorabilia Show, the Yellow Springs Street Fair, the Strawberry Festival and the Midwest Native Plant Conference.

Separately, Libby Powers, program coordinator at the Family Visitation Center, introduced Christian Martin‑Lovett as the Visitation Center Volunteer of the Year. Powers described Martin‑Lovett’s internship and calming work with trauma‑affected children. Martin‑Lovett thanked the team and said, "the County is very fortunate to have Ms. Powers and the staff to provide this service to families." The board thanked both presenters for their work and information.

The presentation provides county leaders with updated metrics to evaluate tourism marketing and event planning; the board acknowledged the report and offered thanks but did not take immediate action.