Former officials, residents urge cautious ‘refresh’ of Ferrysburg image; commission to seek consultant quotes

Members of the public and commission members debated whether Ferrysburg should pursue a full rebranding or a lighter refresh of its logo, slogan and communications.

Roger Jonas, identified in the meeting as a former planning commission chair, cautioned against the term "rebranding" and urged the commission to think in terms of "imaging" or a gradual refresh. Jonas recounted past logo development and recommended a phased approach: "You don't have to change all your signs at once. You phase it in because there's no budget for changing everything at once."

Leon Still, introduced in the meeting as a former mayor, gave historical context for the city's current sailboat logo and said he would resist abandoning the overall image while being open to revising the slogan. Several commissioners and a resident suggested the phrase "City of Parks" as a possible slogan to emphasize Ferrysburg's park assets and to protect green space.

Commissioners discussed two paths: form a subcommittee or task force that includes citizens and commissioners, or hire a professional consultant to lead the process and produce a structured marketing strategy. Commissioners emphasized preserving local history and keeping costs manageable; one commissioner suggested staff obtain quotes from marketing consultants so the commission can compare options. The chair recommended that staff collect consultant cost estimates and that the commission continue the discussion at the next meeting.

Why it matters: the discussion touches municipal identity, tourism positioning and costs. Commissioners said stronger, more consistent social media and graphical communications could help present city goals and programs to residents.

Next steps: staff will seek quotes or cost estimates for professional help; the commission will continue the rebranding discussion at a future meeting and may form a task group to produce recommendations for council.