Agenda Packet 10.6.26
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TOURISM DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION – 10/6/2026 Mtg Page 1 of 2
TOURISM DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION
Tuesday, October 6, 2026 – 1:00 PM
Conference Room 204
Microsoft Teams Virtual Link
Meeting ID: 245 936 664 203 183 Passcode: A6mF7Xj2
Dial-in option: +1 872-242-8028 ID: 403812564#
MISSION STATEMENT:“The Superior Tourism Commission will develop, market, and promote Superior as a
destination for visitors to stay and enjoy our natural landscape, culture, arts, parks, and
businesses.”
COMMITTEE MEMBERS: Lindsey Graskey, Nick Ledin, Joseph Radke, Marquise Slay, Jenice Meyer, Natalie
Chin
1 ROLL CALL
2 APPROVAL OF MINUTES
2.1 Tourism Development Commission (Meeting held September 1, 2026)
3 NEW BUSINESS
3.1 Discuss and Approve Sponsorship Application from Grandma’s Marathon-Duluth, Inc. in
the amount of $1,200
3.2 Discuss and Approve Funding Proposal for the Lake Superior Ice Festival in the amount of
$40,690
3.3 Quarterly Grant Update from Richard I. Bong Veterans Museum & Superior Tourism
Information Center
3.4 Presentation on Research Findings by Swim Creative
3.5 Discuss and Approve an Estimate for Poster Advertising in Hinckley, MN in the amount of
$4,749
3.6 Discuss and Approve Governor’s Conference on Tourism not to exceed $5,500
3.7 Discuss and Approve Sponsorship Funding for Tourism Coordinator not to exceed $6,000
4 OLD BUSINESS
4.1 Discuss and Approve Digital Asset Management tool in the total amount of $8,600
4.2 Discuss and Approve a 3-Year Allocation in the Budget for $75,000 per year ($225,000 in
total) for a Marketing Contract/Communication Plan in Anticipation of the Blatnik Bridge
Closure in 2027
5 RECURRING BUSINESS
5.1 Financials
5.2 Report from the Chair
5.3 Confirm Next Meeting Time (November 3, 2026 @ 1:00 PM)
TOURISM DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION – 10/6/2026 Mtg Page 2 of 2
6 ADJOURNMENT
Notice is hereby given that a majority of the members of the Common Council may be present
at the meeting, and although this may constitute a quorum of the Common Council, the
Council will not take any action at this meeting.
*********************************************************************************************
Pursuant to the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, if you are in need of an accommodation to participate in
the public meeting process, please call (715) 395-7200 by 4:30 p.m. on the day prior to the scheduled meeting date
(OR dial 711 for Telecommunications Relay Service). The City will attempt to accommodate any request
depending on the amount of notice received.
*********************************************************************************************
In compliance with Wisconsin Open Meetings Law, this agenda was posted on 10/2 at the following locations: Superior Government
Center, Douglas County Courthouse, and online at https://superiorwi.gov/agendacenter. It was also emailed to the Superior Public Library and the
Superior Telegram.
TOURISM DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION – 7/6/26 Mtg Page 1 of 2
TOURISM DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION Minutes
Tuesday, September 1st, 2026 – 1:00 PM
Conference Room 204
The meeting was called to order by Chair Lindsey Graskey at 1:03 PM on September 1, 2026 in
Conference Room 204.
1 ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Lindsey Graskey, Nick Ledin, Jenice Meyer, Marquise Slay, Joe Radke
VIRTUAL:
ABSENT: Natalie Chin
CITY STAFF PRESENT: Mary Osborne (Tourism Coordinator), Justin Bernacki (Chief of
Staff)
OTHERS PRESENT: John Gidley (Bong Center), Terry Lundberg (Bong Center), Tristan
Akason (Bong Center), Shelley Nelson (Superior Telegram), John Ramos (Duluth Monitor),
Patrice Bradley (SWIM), Maria Barbirotto (SWIM), Bill Nelson (SWIM)
2 APPROVAL OF MINUTES
2.1 Tourism Development Commission (Meeting held August 4, 2026)
MOTION by Vice-Chair Ledin to approve August 4, 2026 minutes. Second by Meyer. Minutes filed.
3 NEW BUSINESS
3.1 Discuss and Approve Gotta Be Superior sticker order in the amount of $707.50
MOTION by Meyer to approve purchase in the amount of $707.50. Second by Vice-Chair Ledin. Motion
passes.
4 OLD BUSINESS
4.1 Discuss and Approve Funding Request Proposal for the Mission Marge Project in the
Amount of $78,910
Presentation by Tristan Akason and John Gidley. Discussion held. MOTION by Meyer to provide
sponsorship in the amount of $10,000. Second by Chair Graskey. Motion passes.
4.2 Discuss and Approve Digital Asset Management tool in the total amount of $8,600
MOTION by Chair Graskey to hold in committee. Second by Vice-Chair Ledin. Motion passes.
4.3 Discuss and Approve Updates to Superior’s Visitor Guide in the amount of $9,000
MOTION by Vice-Chair Ledin to approve updates to the Superior Visitor Guide in the amount of $9,000.
Second by Meyer. Motion passes.
4.4 Discuss and Approve a 3-Year Allocation in the Budget for $75,000 per year ($225,000 in
total) for a Marketing Contract/Communication Plan in Anticipation of the Blatnik Bridge
Closure in 2027
Discussion held. MOTION by Slay to hold in committee. Second by Vice-Chair Ledin. Meyer abstains.
Motion passes.
TOURISM DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION – 7/6/26 Mtg Page 2 of 2
5 RECURRING BUSINESS
5.1 Financials
Discussion held. No action taken.
5.2 Report from the Chair
No action taken.
5.3 Confirm Next Meeting Time (October 6, 2026 @ 1:00 PM)
Meeting confirmed.
6 ADJOURNMENT
Meeting adjourned by Chair Graskey at 2:35pm.
Respectfully submitted by Mary Osborne.
2025 Superior Nightmare 5K
EXPENSES REVENUE TOTAL EVENT PROFIT
Participant Swag (Shirt + Printing) 8,235.24$ $5697.30 not in project (Martin W) Registration 15,502.00$ 6,314.17$
Fitsok (Sock Factory) 412.18$ Merchandise (Fitsoks) 714.25$
City Permit + Services Fee 581.00$ Race Roster Sponsor Payout 3,469.10$
Timing + Bib Tags (Duluth Timing & Events) 1,590.40$ 648 registered City of Superior grant 1,200.00$ Grant confirmed April '25
Race Bibs (Marathon Printing) 283.50$ Raffle Tickets 260.00$
USATF Sanction Fee (Insurance) 625.50$ Total Revenue 21,145.35$
Portable Toilets (Mr. Biffy - 7) 353.43$
Truck Rental + Fuel (Penske) 309.47$ $40.19 truck fuel, $ 269.28 truck rental
Marketing Expenses 574.92$ $5,544 In-Kind Marketing Marketing Expenses:
Course Signs -$ Meta 499.92$
Photography (Tigg) 200.00$ Duluth Chamber 75.00$
Staff Lunch, Food, etc. -$
Wessman Arena/UWS permit 131.25$
Drink Tickets 873.60$
Bananas -$ Sponsored in kind
Mileage -$
Misc. Expenses 660.69$ Stickers, treat bags, candy
Age Division Awards -$
Total Expenses 14,831.18$
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SUPERIOR, WI
Funding Proposal for the
Tourism Development Commission
2027 Lake Superior Ice Festival | January 29–30, 2027
For more than a decade, the Lake Superior Ice Festival has welcomed thousands of visitors from across the region to
celebrate winter in Superior, Wisconsin. This free, family-friendly event brings our community together while showcasing
the unique winter experiences, local businesses, and natural beauty that make Superior a destination worth visiting.
The 2027 Lake Superior Ice Festival will take place January 29–30 at Barker’s Island, featuring returning favorites such as
pond hockey, ice racing, sledding, ice fishing, ice sculptures, and a variety of family-friendly activities.
As we plan for 2027, our focus is on strengthening the festival’s regional appeal, expanding opportunities for local
businesses, and creating experiences that encourage visitors to explore Superior beyond the festival grounds.
We are requesting up to $40,690 from the Tourism Development Commission to support eight funding opportunities.
These initiatives would attract visitors, support local businesses, enhance the festival experience, and provide lasting
investments in future events.
Our highest funding priority is the Business Ice Sculpture Program. If the Commission is unable to fund the full request, we
ask that it give first consideration to this $11,940 initiative, which directly connects the festival with local businesses and
creates additional reasons for visitors to explore Superior.
1. Business Ice Sculptures
We would like to bring back the Business Ice Sculpture Program for the 2027 Lake Superior Ice Festival. This program
gives local businesses the opportunity to display professionally carved ice sculptures at their locations, creating a
collection of winter attractions throughout Superior.
In recent years, warmer winter temperatures have made businesses hesitant to invest in sculptures that may melt
sooner than anticipated. As a result, we did not offer the business sculpture program in 2026, and the feedback we
received from attendees overwhelmingly indicated that it was missed. To address this challenge and encourage
participation, we propose significantly reducing the cost to participating businesses through a subsidy funded by the
Tourism Development Commission.
Requested Amount: $11,940
Sculpture Order Quantity Cost per Sculpture Business Contribution Funding Requested
Ordered by November 15 20 $630 $3,000 $9,600
Ordered after November 15 4 $735 $600 $2,340
Total 24 $15,540 $3,600 $11,940
Details: Our goal is to feature 24 business ice sculptures throughout Superior. Participating businesses would
contribute $150 per sculpture, with TDC funding covering the remaining cost.
This approach allows businesses to participate at an affordable rate while maintaining a financial commitment to the
program. The City would coordinate the program, and participating businesses would work with the professional ice
sculptor to develop their designs.
The sculptures would be displayed at participating businesses throughout Superior, creating a community-wide
attraction that visitors could enjoy in addition to the activities at Barker’s Island.
Tourism Impact
Unlike attractions located exclusively at the festival grounds, the Business Ice Sculpture Program brings the festival
directly into our commercial areas. Visitors would have an additional reason to explore Superior, discover local shops
and restaurants, and spend time in different parts of the community.
The sculptures would also provide photo opportunities and promotional content that participating businesses could
share through their own marketing and social media channels, extending the festival’s visibility.
Although the longevity of the sculptures will depend on weather conditions, reducing the financial commitment
makes the program more accessible to local businesses and allows us to bring back a favorite winter attraction.
This program is our highest funding priority because it creates a direct connection between the festival, our local
business community, and the visitors we are working to attract to Superior.
2. New Snow Tubes
The festival’s snow slide is a popular attraction for children and families. To maintain this experience, we are looking
to replace our current snow tubes with higher-quality equipment designed for commercial tubing operations. During
the 2026 festival, several of our newly purchased tubes deflated or popped throughout the event, creating the need
for more durable equipment.
Requested Amount: $2,500
Details: Funding would provide 10 new commercial-grade snow tubes at an estimated cost of $250 each.
These tubes are designed for the type of repeated use experienced at established tube hills and are expected to
provide several years of service. Purchasing more durable equipment would help us maintain this popular attraction,
reduce the need for frequent replacements, and provide a reliable sledding experience for families attending future
festivals.
Maintaining a high-quality, reliable snow slide helps strengthen the festival’s appeal to families traveling to Superior
and gives regional visitors another reason to make the Ice Festival a winter day-trip or weekend destination.
3. Feather Flags
With activities spread throughout Barker’s Island, clear signage and wayfinding are important to helping visitors
navigate the festival and discover everything it has to offer. We would like to introduce colorful feather flags that
identify activity areas while creating a consistent and recognizable festival atmosphere.
Requested Amount: $3,250
Details: Funding would provide 25 feather flags at $130 each, featuring festival branding and activity identification.
The flags would be strategically placed throughout the island to guide visitors to attractions, highlight activity
locations, and improve the overall appearance of the festival grounds. They would be reusable for future festivals,
providing a long-term investment in event signage and branding while reducing the need to purchase replacement
signage each year. Improved wayfinding also creates a more welcoming and navigable experience for visitors who may be
unfamiliar with Barkers Island, helping them easily find and participate in activities throughout the festival grounds.
4. Glow Party – Grand Finale
We are looking to introduce an exciting new grand finale for the 2027 Lake Superior Ice Festival: a Glow Party! In
previous years, the festival has concluded with fireworks or a laser light show. For 2027, we would like to create a
more interactive celebration that brings attendees together for a fun and memorable conclusion to the weekend.
Requested Amount: $6,000
Details: Funding would support musical entertainment, lighting, glow items, refreshments and other production
costs. The Glow Party would feature a large bonfire built with holiday trees donated by Superior residents. Unlike a
traditional fireworks or laser show, this interactive celebration would invite visitors to take part in the festivities
rather than simply watch. As the festival’s grand finale, the Glow Party would encourage attendees to extend their
time in Superior, creating additional opportunities for dining, shopping, and overnight stays.
5. Blizzy’s Snowflake Chase – Cash Prize
We are excited to introduce a new community-wide adventure featuring our festival mascot, Blizzy!
Blizzy’s Snowflake Chase would invite residents and visitors to search for a specially designed festival snowflake
hidden somewhere in Superior. A series of clues would lead participants closer to its location, with the first person to
find it winning a $1,000 cash prize.
Requested Amount: $1,000 (if eligible)
Details: The chase would begin approximately two weeks before the festival, generating excitement and engagement
leading up to the event. A custom acrylic snowflake featuring the Lake Superior Ice Festival’s new logo would be
hidden at a secret location within the city. Clues would be released daily throughout the search, encouraging
participants to follow along and explore the community. The winner would be recognized during the festival’s grand
finale on Saturday, January 30.
Blizzy’s Snowflake Chase would create an opportunity to promote the festival before the event weekend while
introducing a new activity that connects participants with locations throughout Superior. Through clues, social media
engagement, and community participation, the search could become an annual festival tradition that builds
anticipation and encourages repeat visits.
6. Ice Carousel
The ice carousel is one of the festival’s unique winter attractions, offering visitors an opportunity to experience Lake
Superior in a way that is not commonly available at other winter events. We would like to continue offering this
attraction as part of the 2027 festival, provided ice and weather conditions allow for its safe construction and
operation.
Requested Amount: $2,500
Details: Funding would support the construction of the ice carousel, including the equipment and resources needed
to create the attraction. Barkers Island Marina hires staff to build and maintain the ice carousel. The funding would
help offset the costs to the Marina for their work. The carousel offers an interactive experience for festival attendees
while providing a distinctive visual attraction for photography, media coverage, and festival promotion. Its
connection to Lake Superior and our northern winter environment makes it an attraction that helps distinguish the
Ice Festival from other regional events. As an experience unique to a northern winter setting, the ice carousel helps
give regional visitors an attraction they cannot easily experience elsewhere and strengthens the Ice Festival’s identity
as a destination event.
7. Island Décor & Light Tunnel
We would like to enhance the overall festival atmosphere at Barkers Island by expanding our winter decorations and
introducing a new illuminated light tunnel. In addition to offering a wide variety of activities, we want Barker’s Island
itself to feel like a winter destination, with lighting and decorative elements that create a welcoming and memorable
experience for visitors.
Requested Amount: $3,500
Details: Funding would support the purchase of decorative lighting, winter-themed displays, and a new illuminated
light tunnel. The tunnel would provide an interactive attraction that visitors could walk through, creating a unique
photo opportunity and adding to the festival’s evening atmosphere.
Additional lighting and decorations would be placed throughout the island to enhance gathering areas, highlight
attractions, and create a more cohesive festival environment. Whenever possible, materials would be selected for
reuse at future festivals and other community events, allowing this investment to provide benefits beyond the 2027
event. Creating a more visually distinctive festival environment also strengthens the Ice Festival as a regional
attraction, providing memorable experiences and shareable photo opportunities that can help promote Superior to
audiences beyond the immediate community.
8. Marketing
Attracting visitors from outside the immediate community requires consistent promotion that reaches audiences
throughout the region and gives them a reason to plan a trip to Superior.
We are requesting funding to support the final year of our three-year marketing agreement with Midwest
Communications and WDIO, along with additional print materials and paid social media advertising.
Requested Amount: $10,000
Details: Funding would support our existing radio and television advertising partnerships ($6,000 and $1,000
respectively), as well as printed promotional materials and targeted social media advertising.
These marketing efforts would allow us to promote the festival’s activities, highlight new attractions, and reach
potential visitors through a combination of traditional and digital media. Our goal is to reach potential visitors before
they make their weekend plans and encourage them to choose Superior as their winter destination.
Why This Matters
The Lake Superior Ice Festival provides an opportunity to attract visitors to Superior during the winter season while
showcasing our community, supporting local businesses, and creating experiences that encourage people to return.
The proposed funding would support three important tourism objectives:
❖ Extend the festival’s economic impact throughout Superior. The Business Ice Sculpture Program and Blizzy’s
Snowflake Chase would encourage participants to explore locations beyond Barker’s Island, creating opportunities
for additional visits to local businesses and greater community involvement.
❖ Strengthen Superior’s appeal as a winter destination. New attractions, a signature evening finale, and enhanced
festival grounds would help create a more complete visitor experience, giving families and out-of-town guests
additional reasons to attend and spend time in Superior.
❖ Build on investments that benefit future events. Commercial-grade snow tubes, feather flags, and reusable
decorations would improve the festival while reducing the need to repurchase these items in future years.
Combined with consistent regional marketing, these investments would support the festival’s continued development as
an annual tourism attraction. The Lake Superior Ice Festival is made possible through the collaboration of the City of
Superior, community organizations, local businesses, sponsors, and volunteers. Funding from the Tourism Development
Commission would build on these existing partnerships and help us continue offering a free event that welcomes visitors
of all ages.
Total Funding Requested
Sponsorship/Grant Opportunity Requested Amount
Business Ice Sculptures – Highest Priority $11,940
New Snow Tubes $2,500
Feather Flags $3,250
Glow Party – Grand Finale $6,000
Blizzy’s Snowflake Chase – Cash Prize $1,000
Ice Carousel $2,500
Island Décor & Light Tunnel $3,500
Marketing $10,000
Grand Total $40,690
We recognize that the Commission may not be able to fund every proposed opportunity and would welcome
consideration of individual projects or partial funding. If funding is limited, we respectfully request that the Commission
prioritize the $11,940 Business Ice Sculpture Program. This initiative would allow us to restore a community-wide
attraction, make participation more affordable for local businesses, and encourage visitors to experience more of Superior
during their visit.
Thank you for considering this request and for your continued support of the Lake Superior Ice Festival. Your investment
helps us showcase Superior as a winter destination while creating experiences that bring visitors, businesses, and our
community together.
We appreciate the Tourism Development Commission’s partnership and look forward to another successful festival in
2027.
Estimate October 1, 2026
To: Gotta Be Superior From: Swim Creative Mary Osborne Maria Barbirotto 1316 N 14th Street 310 East Superior Street, #130 Superior, WI 54880 Duluth, MN 55802
Hinckley Poster Advertising at Tobie’s
Description: This proposal places the Superior Tourism Commission inside one of the most
recognizable
travel
stops
in
Minnesota:
Tobie’s
in
Hinckley.
Positioned
along
I-35
roughly
halfway
between
the
Twin
Cities
and
Duluth,
Tobie’s
has
long
been
a
go-to
break
for
travelers
heading
north,
drawing
a
steady
stream
of
families,
weekend
getaway
seekers,
and
road-trippers
who
stop
to
stretch
their
legs,
grab
a
bite,
and
plan
the
rest
of
their
drive.
That
makes
the
Tobie’s
lobby
a
uniquely
valuable
environment
for
Superior.
Visitors
here
are
paused,
relaxed,
and
actively
thinking
about
where
they
are
going
next,
which
is
exactly
the
moment
to
introduce
Superior
as
a
destination
and
influence
the
route
they
take
to
get
there.
Placement — Hinckley Poster (40" x 50")
A
large-format,
full-color
poster
displayed
in
the
Tobie’s
lobby,
where
it
will
be
seen
by
a
high
volume
of
northbound
travelers
throughout
the
contract
period.
The
size
and
indoor
placement
give
the
message
strong
visibility
and
dwell
time,
allowing
travelers
to
take
in
the
creative,
absorb
the
message,
and
carry
it
with
them
back
onto
the
road.
The
contract
runs
for
six
months,
from
March
2027
through
August
2027,
covering
the
spring
travel
ramp-up
and
the
full
peak
of
the
summer
tourism
season,
and
aligning
with
the
start
of
the
Blatnik
Bridge
closure
so
that
Superior's
message
is
in
place
from
the
very
moment
travel
patterns
begin
to
change.
Why We Are Presenting This Now
Lobby
poster
placements
at
Tobie’s
are
limited
and
assigned
through
a
waiting
list
on
a
first-come,
first-served
basis.
Securing
a
spot
requires
an
early
commitment,
so
we
are
bringing
this
opportunity
to
the
Commission
now
to
make
sure
Superior
holds
its
place
in
line
and
does
not
lose
this
inventory
to
another
advertiser
ahead
of
the
season.
Supporting the Blatnik Bridge Closure Strategy
This
placement
is
designed
to
work
hand
in
hand
with
the
billboard
Swim
Creative
is
currently
planning
for
May
2027
through
October
2027,
as
part
of
a
coordinated
effort
to
keep
visitor
traffic
flowing
into
Superior
during
the
Blatnik
Bridge
closure.
With
the
bridge
out
of
service,
many
travelers
may
assume
Superior
is
harder
to
reach,
or
may
default
to
staying
on
the
Duluth
side
altogether.
Together,
the
Tobie’s
poster
and
the
billboard
create
a
sequence
of
touchpoints
along
the
same
travel
corridor:
the
poster
reaches
travelers
while
they
are
stopped
and
planning,
and
the
billboard
reinforces
the
message
on
the
road,
guiding
them
toward
an
easy
route
into
Superior
that
avoids
the
bridge
entirely.
The
overlap
between
the
two
placements
from
May
2027
through
August
2027
builds
repeated
exposure
during
the
busiest
months
of
the
year,
while
the
poster's
earlier
start
in
March
2027
gives
Superior
a
head
start
in
shaping
travel
plans
before
the
summer
season
begins.
a: 310 E Superior St, #130 p: 218.722.1404 Duluth, MN 55803 w: SwimCreative.com
An Initial Step Into the Minnesota Market
Beyond
the
bridge
closure,
this
placement
marks
an
important
first
step
in
establishing
Superior's
presence
in
the
Minnesota
market.
Our
research
points
to
Minnesota
travelers,
particularly
those
coming
up
from
the
Twin
Cities
metro,
as
a
significant
and
growing
opportunity
for
Superior
tourism.
The
bridge
closure
makes
reaching
this
audience
not
only
an
opportunity
but
a
necessity,
since
these
are
the
same
visitors
whose
travel
patterns
will
be
most
affected.
Investing
in
placements
along
their
path
allows
Superior
to
address
the
immediate
challenge
of
the
closure
while
building
awareness
and
familiarity
with
an
audience
that
can
keep
returning
long
after
the
bridge
reopens.
Creative Included: Swim Creative will write the copy and handle the design. The creative will be built
to
communicate
quickly
and
clearly
to
travelers
on
the
move,
positioning
Superior
as
an
easy,
rewarding
stop
on
the
way
north
and
making
it
clear
that
getting
there
is
simple,
bridge
or
no
bridge.
The
poster
and
billboard
will
share
a
consistent
look
and
message
so
that
travelers
recognize
Superior
at
every
point
along
their
journey.
Agency Services Cost Breakdown
Media Description Cost
Hinckley Poster Placement (40" x 50")
Large-format, full-color poster in the Tobie’s lobby in Hinckley; six-month contract running March 2027 through August 2027.
$2,824
Services Description Cost
Copywriting & Design Headline and supporting copy plus full-color poster design, layout, and production-ready file delivery to spec, built to align visually with the May–October 2027 billboard
$1,050
Creative Direction Overall creative strategy and oversight, making sure the poster and billboard work as a coordinated campaign around the bridge closure and Superior's entry into the Minnesota market
$525
Project Management Coordination across creative, client approvals, vendor handoff with Tobie’s, and timeline management
$350
Total $4,749
a: 310 E Superior St, #130 p: 218.722.1404 Duluth, MN 55803 w: SwimCreative.com
Payment Terms ● 100% billed upon signing the agreement, coming out of the 2027 contingency fund
Terms and Conditions ● This estimate is valid for 15 days from the date of issue.
Approval ● I approve this estimate and agree to the terms outlined above.
Signature Date
Printed Name FULL TERMS An invoice for a 100% installment will be issued at the time of signing of this document. The project will begin following receipt of the installment. This
installment
is
non-refundable
beginning
ten
(10)
business
days
after
the
installment
payment
receipt
date.
The
cost
of
services
will
be
billed
at
the
beginning
of
the
month.
Payment
is
due
within
21
business
days
and
is
subject
to
a
1.5%
interest
charge
starting
at
30
days
past
due.
This
estimate/proposal
is
for
agency
services
that
are
listed
in
this
estimate/proposal
only.
If
you
are
interested
in
services
beyond
what
is
included
in
this
estimate/proposal,
an
estimate
for
additional
services
will
be
provided
and
work
will
begin
following
client
approval
of
the
additional
services
estimate.
Client
agrees
to
a
variance
of
+10%
applied
to
the
total
amount
of
this
estimate
that
will
act
as
a
contingency
fund
for
unforeseen
expenses.
Any
outside
costs
that
are
processed
by
Swim
Creative
are
subject
to
a
15%
markup.
Media
is
subject
to
a
15%
commission.
If
production
is
necessary,
the
production
total
can
vary
by
10%
depending
on
final
production
details.
This
proposal
and
its
recommendations
are
the
property
of
Swim
Creative,
are
valid
for
15
days,
and
do
not
include
any
sales
tax
where
applicable.
For
all
steps
that
require
client
approval,
this
estimate
includes
two
(2)
rounds
of
revisions.
Additional
rounds
of
revisions
will
incur
additional
costs
to
the
client.
Swim
Creative
is
not
responsible
for
trademark
or
copyright
research
and
is
not
liable
for
infringement
on
any
existing
copyrights
or
trademarks.
Final,
approved,
and
paid-for
names/taglines/logos/artwork
are
the
sole
property
of
the
client.
Swim
Creative
recommends
copyright
and/or
trademark
research
by
an
outside
legal
firm.
Swim
Creative
retains
rights
to
use
names/taglines/logos/artwork
for
promotional
uses.
Please note that the estimate provided is based on the initial scope of the project as discussed and agreed upon. Any changes or additions to this
scope
may
result
in
additional
charges.
This
includes
but
is
not
limited
to,
requests
for
extra
features,
modifications
to
the
original
design,
unforeseen
complexities,
and
any
work
that
requires
extended
hours
or
specialized
resources.
We
will
communicate
any
potential
additional
costs
as
soon
as
they
are
identified,
ensuring
transparency
and
allowing
for
your
approval
before
proceeding.
Our
goal
is
to
deliver
high-quality
work
while
maintaining
clear
and
open
communication
throughout
the
project.
__________ (initials)
a: 310 E Superior St, #130 p: 218.722.1404 Duluth, MN 55803 w: SwimCreative.com
Gotta Be Superior
305 E 2nd St
Superior, WI 54880
August 28, 2026
Re: SnapSea Quotation
To Whom It May Concern:
This document outlines the scope of services and payment terms provided by Avoy Technologies
Limited /dba SnapSea as a Digital Asset Management provider for the Gotta Be Superior team (the
“Client”).
SCOPE OF SERVICES
The Services included in this Agreement are as follows:
SnapSea Visual Marketing Platform (DAM-Only)*
Accounts for:
● Gotta Be Superior
Additional Details:
● Unlimited User Accounts and Admin Accounts
● Migration included at no cost
DAM-Only (1TB): $5,800
+ SnapLink $1,200 $0
Annual License Cost: $5,800
*The SnapSea Visual Marketing platform is a feature-rich DAM solution that allows organizations to
upload, manage, share and organize all of their visual content. The platform includes capabilities for
sourcing User-Generated Content (“UGC”), sharing external Media Centers with local partners, media
and agencies, as well as embedding responsive web galleries and interactive maps directly on the web.
SnapSea works with more than 200 destinations globally including Travel Texas, Travel Nevada,
Stevens Point CVB, Visit Oshkosh and Fox Cities CVB.
PAYMENT TERMS
Initial payment terms: the Client will pay $5,800 (the “License Cost”) and a one-time setup fee of $0
(the “Setup Fee”) within 30 days of receipt of the invoice.
AVOY TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED /TA SNAPSEA - 6 SNOW HILL, LONDON, UK EC1A 2AY
For further information please contact Cody Dillabough, Chief Executive Officer at cody@snapsea.io.
Regards,
Cody Dillabough
Chief Executive Officer
Avoy Technologies Limited /dba SnapSea
AVOY TECHNOLOGIES LIMITED /TA SNAPSEA - 6 SNOW HILL, LONDON, UK EC1A 2AY
Estimate August 27, 2026 To: Gotta Be Superior From: Swim Creative
Mary Osborne Maria Barbirotto
1316 N 14th Street 310 East Superior Street, #130
Superior, WI 54880 Duluth, MN 55802
Digital Asset Management (DAM) Setup
A centralized, tourism-led DAM with controlled access that enables cross-departmental
use while maintaining brand integrity, organization, and ease of use.
Description: This estimate includes the agency services required to implement, organize, and launch a Digital Asset Management (DAM) platform for Superior Tourism's growing library of photo and video assets. A DAM is a centralized, cloud-based system that stores, organizes, tags, and retrieves digital media, functioning as a structured, searchable library for managing, accessing, and sharing brand-approved visual content.
As Superior Tourism's photo and video library continues to grow, a dedicated DAM helps ensure assets are securely stored, consistently organized, and easy to search and access by approved staff, partners, and vendors. The software subscription will be purchased directly by the City of Superior and is not included in this estimate. The scope below is built around a SnapSea Standard (1TB Storage) DAM-only subscription, which includes access to the DAM platform, Media Centre, and Galleries — tools that support centralized storage, keyword and metadata tagging, controlled user access, and efficient retrieval of approved assets.
Our team will complete a one-time Year 1 setup and organization process that includes auditing approximately four years of existing photo and video archives, identifying and curating the strongest and most useful assets, uploading selected content into the platform, applying consistent file naming conventions and metadata tagging, and building a clear folder and library structure. We will also review and organize available usage rights information associated with existing assets, establish governance standards and workflows for how content is added and maintained over time, and provide up to two (2) hours of training for key staff so the system can be used confidently and consistently from launch.
The result will be a structured, searchable, and ready-to-use media library that supports current marketing and tourism efforts while also improving long-term continuity, access, and usability across teams. The SnapSea account will be owned by the City of Superior for tourism use, and all assets uploaded to the platform will remain under your organization's control and accessible to authorized users at all times.
Setup work will begin once the SnapSea subscription is active and administrative access has been provided to our team. User Generated Content (UGC) functionality is not included in the SnapSea Standard tier reflected in this scope, but additional features can be added in the future if the program needs to expand.
a: 310 E Superior St, #130 p: 218.722.1404
Duluth, MN 55803 w: SwimCreative.com
Agency Services Cost Breakdown
Services Description Cost
Setup and Organization One-time Year 1 audit, curation, organization, and upload of Superior Tourism’s photo and video assets into the SnapSea DAM, including review of approximately four years of archives, selection and organization of the strongest assets, file naming and metadata standardization, available rights/usage organization, folder structure development, workflow setup, and up to two (2) hours of staff training to create a searchable, ready-to-use media library. Additional training available if needed - billed at an hourly rate. This initial effort reflects the one-time process of auditing and retroactively organizing existing assets for DAM implementation. Ongoing asset management—including uploading, tagging, and organizing new photography and video—will be incorporated into future photography and content production budgets on an annual basis. Scope is based on currently available archives and may be adjusted if asset volume significantly exceeds expectations.
$2,800
Total This is a one-time payment. $2,800
Payment Terms ● 100% billed upon signing the agreement
Terms and Conditions ● This estimate is valid for 15 days from the date of issue.
Approval ● I approve this estimate and agree to the terms outlined above.
Signature Date
Printed Name
a: 310 E Superior St, #130 p: 218.722.1404
Duluth, MN 55803 w: SwimCreative.com
FULL TERMS
An invoice for a 100% installment will be issued at the time of signing of this document. The project will begin following receipt of the installment. This
installment is non-refundable beginning ten (10) business days after the installment payment receipt date. The cost of services will be billed at the beginning
of the month. Payment is due within 21 business days and is subject to a 1.5% interest charge starting at 30 days past due. This estimate/proposal is for
agency services that are listed in this estimate/proposal only. If you are interested in services beyond what is included in this estimate/proposal, an estimate
for additional services will be provided and work will begin following client approval of the additional services estimate. Client agrees to a variance of +10%
applied to the total amount of this estimate that will act as a contingency fund for unforeseen expenses. Any outside costs that are processed by Swim
Creative are subject to a 15% markup. Media is subject to a 15% commission. If production is necessary, the production total can vary by 10% depending on
final production details. This proposal and its recommendations are the property of Swim Creative, are valid for 15 days, and do not include any sales tax
where applicable. For all steps that require client approval, this estimate includes two (2) rounds of revisions. Additional rounds of revisions will incur
additional costs to the client. Swim Creative is not responsible for trademark or copyright research and is not liable for infringement on any existing copyrights
or trademarks. Final, approved, and paid-for names/taglines/logos/artwork are the sole property of the client. Swim Creative recommends copyright and/or
trademark research by an outside legal firm. Swim Creative retains rights to use names/taglines/logos/artwork for promotional uses.
Please note that the estimate provided is based on the initial scope of the project as discussed and agreed upon. Any changes or additions to this
scope may result in additional charges. This includes but is not limited to, requests for extra features, modifications to the original design, unforeseen
complexities, and any work that requires extended hours or specialized resources. We will communicate any potential additional costs as soon as they
are identified, ensuring transparency and allowing for your approval before proceeding. Our goal is to deliver high-quality work while maintaining clear and
open communication throughout the project.
__________ (initials)
a: 310 E Superior St, #130 p: 218.722.1404
Duluth, MN 55803 w: SwimCreative.com
Superior Together:
Building Pride, Supporting Business & Navigating the Blatnik Bridge Closure
Funding Request: $225,000
Year One: Fall 2026–Spring 2027 | Year Two: March–December 2027 | Year Three: January–December 2028
Purpose & Funding Request
The Tourism and Development Commission is asked to designate $225,000 to develop and launch a comprehensive
community branding, marketing, communications, and engagement campaign for the City of Superior in preparation for
the five-year Blatnik Bridge reconstruction.
The complete closure and rebuild of the Blatnik Bridge will create an unprecedented disruption to travel patterns,
consumer behavior, tourism, and the local business community. It will also create an important opportunity: to
intentionally shape how residents, visitors, businesses, and the broader region experience and think about Superior
during a period of significant change.
This initiative will create a unified, focused, resilient, and community-driven brand and adaptable marketing and
communications strategy that can support the community before, during, and beyond the bridge closure.
The campaign will provide consistent messaging across multiple channels, promote Superior businesses and
destinations, encourage local spending, support re-routing and wayfinding efforts, and keep residents and stakeholders
informed throughout the reconstruction. Most importantly, it will build community pride and help establish new
consumer habits that can strengthen Superior's economy for years to come.
Why This Investment Matters
The Blatnik Bridge closure is more than a transportation challenge. It is an economic and community challenge that will
affect how people move, work, shop, dine, recreate, visit, and do business throughout the Twin Ports and Northwest
Wisconsin.
During a five-year closure, consumer habits could change quickly. Residents may establish new shopping and dining
patterns. Visitors may choose different destinations. Businesses may face reduced visibility and customer traffic.
Without a coordinated effort to communicate Superior's value and make it easy for people to find, access, and support
local businesses, these changes could have lasting consequences.
At the same time, the bridge closure presents an opportunity to change consumer behavior intentionally.
A strong community brand and coordinated marketing campaign can reinforce a simple message: Superior remains
open, accessible, welcoming, vibrant, and worth experiencing.
The campaign will give local businesses, community organizations, tourism partners, and the City a common platform
and consistent message rather than relying on disconnected or short-term communications.
This is an investment not simply in a logo or marketing materials, but in economic resilience, community pride, local
business support, and the long-term identity of Superior.
Year One: Build the Foundation
Fall 2026–Spring 2027
The first year will focus on developing the brand, communications strategy, and implementation plan before the Blatnik
Bridge closes in March 2027.
Goal One: Select a Qualified Consultant
If funding is approved, the Tourism Coordinator will:
1. Select 2–3 Tourism and Development Commissioners to participate in the process.
2. Develop a formal Request for Proposals (RFP) through the City of Superior procurement process.
3. Review qualified applicants.
4. Select a consultant through the City's established review and selection process.
Goal Two: Develop a Community-Driven Brand and Marketing Strategy
Once selected, the consultant will work with the Tourism Coordinator, participating Commissioners, and key
stakeholders to:
1. Establish a comprehensive brand discovery process.
2. Lead an inclusive process that engages residents, business owners, community leaders, tourism partners, and
other key stakeholders.
3. Identify Superior's strengths, opportunities, stories, assets, and points of distinction.
4. Develop 2–3 potential branding directions for consideration.
5. Work collaboratively with the Tourism Coordinator, Commissioners, and stakeholders to select and refine the
final brand.
6. Develop a cost-effective, adaptable marketing and communications plan that can be implemented during the
five-year bridge closure.
The marketing and communications plan should provide recommendations for the appropriate mix of:
● Social media platforms and content strategies
● Integration with existing tourism marketing efforts
● Website development, maintenance, and digital content
● Direct mail and targeted communications
● Promotional materials that local businesses can use
● Digital advertising
● Signage, wayfinding, and visitor communications
● Community engagement and information-sharing
● Other communications tools necessary to respond to changing conditions during the bridge closure
The goal is to have the brand and marketing and communications campaign completed before the Blatnik Bridge closes
in March 2027, allowing the community to enter the closure period with a clear identity, consistent messaging, and an
actionable strategy.
Following completion, the Tourism and Development Commission will consider appropriation of the designated funds
necessary to launch the campaign.
Years Two and Three: Activate, Adapt & Sustain
Year Two: March–December 2027 | Year Three: January–December 2028
The brand and marketing strategy will serve as a foundation, but the campaign must remain adaptable throughout the
bridge closure. Consumer behavior, traffic patterns, business needs, tourism trends, and community concerns will
evolve over time.
Implementation funding will therefore support targeted marketing, communications, public relations, promotional
efforts, digital campaigns, signage and wayfinding, and other strategies identified through the Year One planning
process.
The campaign should be evaluated regularly and adjusted based on measurable outcomes and changing community
needs. This approach ensures the investment is not a one-time marketing effort, but a multi-year economic resilience
strategy capable of responding to the realities of the bridge closure.
Primary Audiences & Geographic Reach
The campaign should prioritize those who live, work, shop, dine, recreate, visit, and invest in Superior while also
reaching regional audiences who can contribute to the local economy.
Primary Audience:
Neighbors, friends, and family in the City of Superior and surrounding area.
Secondary Community:
Douglas County and the Twin Ports
Regional Audience:
Northwest Wisconsin's 10-county region, along with visitors and other audiences identified through the brand discovery
and marketing process.
Intended Outcomes
A successful initiative will produce measurable benefits for Superior and its business community, including:
1. A Unified Community Identity
Create a focused, resilient, and community-driven brand that reflects Superior's strengths, character, people,
businesses, and future.
2. Consistent Communication
Establish a comprehensive marketing and communications plan that gives the City, tourism partners, businesses, and
community organizations a common framework for communicating before and throughout the bridge closure.
3. Increased Community Pride
Build greater awareness and pride among residents by telling the story of Superior and highlighting the people,
businesses, destinations, and experiences that make the community unique.
4. Increased Local Spending
Encourage residents and regional consumers to shop, dine, recreate, and spend more of their dollars in Superior,
particularly as travel patterns and consumer habits change.
5. Preservation of Local Businesses & Jobs
Support local businesses by maintaining visibility, encouraging customer traffic, and helping businesses remain
connected to residents and visitors throughout the five-year closure.
6. Long-Term Consumer Behavior Change
Use the bridge closure as an opportunity to establish stronger local purchasing habits that can continue long after the
bridge reopens.
A Strategic Investment in Superior's Future
The $225,000 designation provides the resources necessary to begin this work before the community is facing the full
impact of the bridge closure. Waiting until the closure is underway would mean responding to disruption rather than
preparing for it.
This initiative allows Superior to be proactive.
It creates an opportunity to bring the community together around a shared identity, provide businesses with stronger
marketing support, communicate consistently with residents and visitors, and deliberately influence where people
choose to spend their time and money.
The Blatnik Bridge closure will change how people move through our region. It does not have to change how people
value Superior.
With a unified brand, a coordinated communications strategy, and sustained marketing investment, Superior can use
this period of disruption to strengthen community pride, support local businesses, preserve jobs, increase local
spending, and build consumer relationships that extend well beyond the five-year reconstruction.
Requested Action: Designate $225,000 to initiate the Superior Community Branding & Marketing Campaign and
establish the foundation for a coordinated, multi-year marketing and communications effort in advance of the Blatnik
Bridge closure.
Adopted xx/xx/2026
2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2026 Actual as 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031
Actual Actual Actual Actual Budget of 9/24/2026 Projection Proposed Projected Projected Projected Projected
823-0000-412.10-00 SALES AND USE / PUBLIC ACCOM. TAXES (798,103) (896,581) (964,276) (1,016,092) (970,000) (523,462) (1,010,000) (979,700) (989,497) (999,392) (1,009,386) (1,019,480)
823-0000-418.10-00 INTEREST & PEN. ON TAXES / INTEREST & PEN/TAXES/SP A - - - (51,787) - - - - - - - -
823-0000-437.64-00 REVENUE FROM LOCAL GOV'TS / REV FROM LOC GOVT/PD GRAN - - - - - - - - - - - -
823-0000-485.10-00 DONATIONS/CONT-PRIVATE / DONATIONS/CONT-PRIVATE - - - - - - - - - - - -
823-0000-487.10-00 OTHER MISC REVENUE / OTHER MISC REVENUE (106,177) - - (14,967) - - - - - - - -
823-0000-487.11-00 OTHER MISC REVENUE / OTHER MISC REVENUE-MERCHANDISE SALES - (1,104) (33) (33) (1,000) - (1,000) (1,000) (1,000) (1,000) (1,000) (1,000)
823-0000-492.10-00 TRANSFERS FROM OTHER FNDS / TRANSFERS FROM GENL FUND - - - - - - - - - - - -
Total Revenue (904,280)$ (897,685)$ (964,309)$ (1,082,878)$ (971,000)$ (523,462)$ (1,011,000)$ (980,700)$ (990,497)$ (1,000,392)$ (1,010,386)$ (1,020,480)$
Attachment A
City of Superior
Account Number/Name
2027 Tourism Development Commission Revenue Budget - Fund 823
Adopted xx/xx/2026
2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2026 Actual as 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031
Actual Actual Actual Actual Budget of 9/24/2026 Projection Proposed Projected Projected Projected Projected
823-5970-597.11-10/SALARIES / SALARIES-PERMANENT-REGULR - - - - 59,617 30,096 59,617 62,598 65,728 69,014 72,465 76,088
823-5970-597.29-90 OTHER CONTRACTUAL SVCS / OTHER CONTRAC SVCS-MISC 250,000 328,066 16,529 72,427 300 6,812 300 300 300 300 300 300
823-5970-597.29-91 OTHER CONTRACTUAL SVCS / OTHER CONTRAC SVCS-MARKETING - 29,279 112,924 180,811 89,834 91,281 89,834 106,030 106,030 106,030 106,030 106,030
823-5970-597.29-92 OTHER CONTRACTUAL SVCS / OTHER CONTRAC SVCS-CAMPAIGNS - 121,666 20,188 96,468 56,201 147,849 56,201 56,201 56,201 56,201 56,201 56,201
823-5970-597.29-93 OTHER CONTRACTUAL SVCS / OTHER CONTRAC SVCS-VISITOR CENTER - 97,252 94,435 94,435 125,000 126,824 125,000 125,000 125,000 125,000 125,000 125,000
823-5970-597-29.94 OTHER CONTRACTUAL SVCS / OTHER CONTRAC SVCS-MEDIA BUYS - 5,247 176,473 20,931 182,544 100,259 182,544 202,789 202,789 202,789 202,789 202,789
823-5970-597-29.95 OTHER CONTRACTUAL SVCS / OTHER CONTRAC SVCS-MERCH EXP - - 120 77,420 - - - - - - - -
823-5970-597-29.96 OTHER CONTRACTUAL SVCS / OTHER CONTRAC SVCS-VISITOR GUIDE - - - - - 9,000 - - - - - -
823-5970-597.32-10 PUBLICATION, SUBS, DUES / PUBS, SUBS, DUES 108 - 348 - - - - - - - - -
823-5970-597.33-40/TRAVEL / TRAVEL & TRAINING - - - - - - - - - - - -
823-5970-597.39-10 OTHER SUPPLIES & EXPENSE / OTHER SUPPLIES & EXPENSE - 98 886 1,956 675 378 675 675 675 675 675 675
823-5970-597.72-11 GRANTS & DONATIONS/TRAVEL SUPERIOR - - - - - - - - - - - -
823-5970-597.72-16 GRANTS, DNTNS-OTHER ORGAN / BONG MUSEUM 149,012 150,000 150,000 150,000 175,000 156,485 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000 175,000
823-5970-597.72-22 GRANTS, DNTNS-OTHER ORGAN / TOURISM GRANTS - 980 2,650 55,688 30,000 23,510 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000 30,000
823-5970-597.72-23 GRANTS, DNTNS-OTHER ORGAN / UNALLOCATED - - - - - - - - - - - -
823-5970-597.72-24 GRANTS, DNTNS-OTHER ORGAN / FILM - - - - 20,000 - 20,000 20,000 20,000 20,000 20,000 20,000
823-5970-597.72-25 GRANTS, DNTNS-OTHER ORGAN / SPONSORSHIPS - - - - - 19,500 - - - - - -
823-5970-597.72-26 GRANTS, DNTNS-OTHER ORGAN / CONTENT CREATION - - - - - 62 - 2,400 2,400 2,400 2,400 2,400
823-5970-597.72-27 GRANTS, DNTNS-OTHER ORGAN / COMMUNITY PROMOTION - - - - - 121 - - - - - -
823-5970-597.82-10/CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS / CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS - - - 16,938 - 34,000 34,000 - - - - -
Total Expense 399,120$ 732,587$ 574,553$ 767,072$ 739,171$ 746,178$ 773,171$ 780,993$ 784,123$ 787,409$ 790,860$ 794,483$
Attachment B
2025 2026 2027
Budget Proposed Projected
29-94Media 164,593 182,544 202,789
29-91 and 29-92Agency 131,674 146,035 162,231
29-93Production 32,919 36,509 40,558
29-93Contingency 32,919 36,509 40,558
362,105 401,597 446,136
Account Number/Name
City of Superior
2027 Tourism Development Commission Expenditure Budget - Fund 823
SWIM CONTRACT
Source: City of Superior website. First collected Oct 11, 2026.