This episode provides a behind-the-scenes look at the vital role of local government communications and the power of community engagement. Meet Katie Guyer, Communications Coordinator for the City of Midland. Katie discusses her wide-ranging responsibilities, from managing the city's social media to overseeing community engagement initiatives. She shares insights into her personal journey to Midland, her passion for public service, and the City's efforts to enhance livability and community development. The discussion covers topics such as the City's innovative social media strategy, the impact of major events that took place in 2020, and Katie's vision for Midland's future.

Timestamps:

0-10 minutes:

• Introduction of Katie Guyer, the Communications Coordinator for the city of Midland

• Discussion of Katie's wide-ranging responsibilities, including social media, media interviews, press releases, and community engagement

• Katie's emphasis on bringing a human element to the City's communications and her passion for transparency

10-20 minutes:

• Katie's background and journey to Midland, including her transition from corporate marketing to local government communications

• Challenges and rewards of Katie's role, especially during 2020

• Importance of human-to-human interaction and giving residents the opportunity to connect with their local government

20-30 minutes:

• Katie's first impressions of Midland and the City's key amenities, such as the Tridge, Dow Gardens, and the Midland Center for the Arts

• The process of selecting photos for the City's annual calendar and the community-sourced nature of the content

• Katie's role in supporting residents during the pandemic and dam failure events, and the collaboration with other City departments

30-40 minutes:

• The role of city government in promoting livability and community development

• Efforts to create a walkable, bikeable, and transit-friendly community, including the pedestrian plaza

• Importance of community engagement and residents' involvement in shaping the City's future

40-50 minutes:

• Discussion of favorite social media accounts and the importance of engaging content

• Katie's admiration for the Utah Department of Transportation's creative approach and the impact of Wendy's Twitter account

• Emphasis on authenticity and the power of humor in social media marketing

50-60 minutes:

• Katie's hopes for Midland's continued momentum and the importance of community involvement

• Encouragement for residents to engage in master planning processes and local meetings

• Reflections on the personal and professional impact of Katie's work in Midland