The Bushnell Chamber of Commerce outlined plans for spring 2026 initiatives and reviewed recent holiday activities during its December 9 meeting at city hall.
Chamber members discussed three potential spring events: a 'Beautify Bushnell' home improvement contest with gift card prizes, organized cash mobs at local businesses, and community- wide yard sales in May.
The group also evaluated their recent No Tax Sunday event, identifying areas for improvement including better signage for Seven Hills Crafts and Creations, creating business maps for non-downtown locations, and increased advertising.
Members also proposed replacing or supplementing the Light Parade with a Lights Festival at VFW Park.
Chamber President Holly Brint said she will follow up with local businesses about participation in the new Bushnell Bucks loyalty program and QR code system. Letters were recently sent to area merchants seeking their involvement.
The chamber's Christmas Giveaway prize winners were announced on Facebook, with prizes available for pickup at M & B Furniture Company. Additional gift cards were added to the 5-to-7 age group category.
Winners were; Adult Drawing - Julie and Sarah $100 Gift Certificate from Bushnell Market; - Boden arm bands, Cole St. Coffee and Cassey gift cards were given to children; 5-7 Year old winners were; Thea, Greyson, Asher, Vincent; 8-12 year olds, Gracelyn, Zelda, Rhett, Isabella; and 13-18 year olds, RJ, Amelia, Cierra and Gabe.
Members thanked Ashton Chandler at Flower Junction for creating decorative bows for downtown poles and Bob Gound for organizing high school volunteers to help with holiday decorations.
The group noted Hardee's completed renovation and reported the restaurant is delivering breakfast to area businesses. Archie's restaurant is currently for sale, with an auction closing December 16. More details to come.
Present at the meeting were Brint, Cindy Ridle, Bob Gound, Austin Pierce and Mark Kane. The chamber will skip its January meeting and may hold a social event in February instead.
