Chamber Director Mitch Everton says there are approximately 2,000 officers, as well as other related personnel, assigned to this base who could afford to live in Anacortes. He said “Our penetration rate with this group is currently approximately 5%.” He told the School Board recently that he’d like to double that to 10%.
- Anacortes materials have been integrated into the welcome packets mailed to all incoming transfers. This includes a presence in the base phone book detailing the school district and providing links to our Web site.
- The chamber has formed a users group comprised of Navy spouses who are committed to identifying and contacting incoming personnel prior to their making a housing decision. Everton said the chamber will also be marketing through this group.
- The chamber has implemented a new Web site: movetoanacortes.org to provide information and linkages to relocation resources: real estate, school district, parks & recreation, health services, as well as other aspects.
The new Web site continues the theme on the Chamber’s main Web site. But focuses more on military members relocating to Anacortes.
“A short 20-minute drive from NAS Whidbey Island, Anacortes is an ideal location for base families. The community boasts wonderful schools, a welcoming small-town atmosphere, affordable housing, and scenic beauty. For working spouses, Anacortes provides convenient access to the I-5 corridor, significantly reducing commute times from Oak Harbor.”
The Chamber has offered to sell banner advertisements on the new Web site to Anacortes businesses.