Local organizations are holding a series of meetings and planning sessions aimed at shaping the future of New Glarus, its business community and the festivals that bring thousands of visitors to the village each year.

The New Glarus Merchant Association met Thursday morning at The Alpine in New Glarus for a workshop designed as a working session rather than a traditional monthly meeting.

Organizers said participants would focus on the association’s highest-priority initiatives and begin moving selected ideas toward implementation. Business owners and community members were encouraged to help advance existing proposals or introduce projects that have not yet been considered.

The workshop followed a community priorities survey conducted by the Merchant Association. The survey, which closed July 21, asked residents and business owners to identify what matters most to them as the organization begins determining which downtown initiatives should receive attention.