Today we’d like to share Zanola project that is in progress with the city of Mt. Vernon, Illinois.
The city of Mt. Vernon, located in south central Illinois, was the focus of a recent Zanola Company housing study identifying demographics-based housing needs for the city. The study explored different growth plans and scenarios, eventually finding the best-fit growth plan for Mt. Vernon. The plan includes the opportunity to develop and build 28 different types of homes; all total, the study justifies a need for 360 to 718 new housing units in Mt. Vernon by 2016.
Following are examples of what Zanola is creating for Mt. Vernon’s greatest success:
- Communications and Marketing Foundations – This guide provides foundational communications materials that will be needed throughout the Mt. Vernon Strategic Housing Growth Program, including standards of branding, graphics, messaging; updated data, demographics, and analysis; templates and style standards; phase one goals, schedules, and measurements; residents’ testimonials; and comprehensive marketing and communication training for individuals involved in the housing growth program.
- Development and Homebuilding Process Guide – This guide communicates the process of residential development and building in Mt. Vernon. The guide outlines a clear, step-by-step process for Mt. Vernon’s basic processes for homebuilding and development, including instructions for zoning, permit process and fees, inspections, schedules, occupancy, etc.
- Marketing Campaign Quick-Start – The marketing campaign establishes brand presence and launches marketing communications for the housing growth program. It includes the launch of Mt. Vernon’s “Just Right Website,” which outlines the Mt. Vernon Strategic Housing Growth Program and targets builders, developers, and residential support professionals. All available resources – guides, contact information, and links to the city staff – can be found in the website. The campaign also includes the launch of emails, blogs, and web updates to draw interest from residential developers, builders, and other homebuilding professionals.
- Professional Outreach Campaign Quick-Start – This campaign identifies target, prospects and referrals; organizes them into priority lists for direct outreach and reporting; and launches outreach and follow-up with these prospects.
Mt. Vernon has seen tremendous growth over the past years – employers are adding jobs, business is growing, and city revenues are strong. We are excited to spearhead the next phase of growth with the implementation of a housing development plan. This is an exciting project! Keep watching Mt. Vernon – we’re moving the market!