Dakota Hurley details tourism initiatives and legislative updates for Beatrice area

The Gage County Board of Supervisors meeting on February 19, 2025, highlighted significant developments in local tourism initiatives, with a focus on enhancing community engagement and attracting visitors. Dakota Hurley, the tourism coordinator, presented a comprehensive quarterly report detailing ongoing projects and collaborations aimed at boosting tourism in the region.

One of the key topics discussed was the potential legislative changes that could impact the Visitor Improvement Fund grant. Currently, grants cannot be used for maintenance projects, such as roof repairs for museums. However, a proposed bill, which has garnered strong support, could allow for maintenance funding, providing much-needed assistance to local attractions. Hurley emphasized the importance of community support for this bill, urging partners to advocate for its passage.

The meeting also covered the successful holiday lighted parade, which saw a great turnout, and the ongoing efforts to secure an Economic Development Administration (EDA) tourism grant. This grant, part of post-COVID funding, aims to attract visitors to Beatrice and its surrounding areas. Hurley noted that the city is collaborating with Main Street and the Chamber of Commerce to maximize the impact of this funding through a marketing project.

Additionally, Hurley reported on the completion of the Pioneer Place project, a new shuffleboard park downtown, and the ongoing efforts to update the visitor guide, which is crucial for informing tourists about local attractions. The guide will see an increase in print copies to ensure availability during major events like the Cattlemen's Ball.

Another significant point raised was the growing importance of youth sports in tourism. Hurley shared insights from a recent tourism conference, noting that female youth athletes tend to bring more spectators than their male counterparts. This trend highlights the potential for increased tourism revenue through youth sporting events, prompting plans to distribute visitor guides at these events to connect visitors with local dining and entertainment options.

In conclusion, the discussions at the Gage County Board of Supervisors meeting underscored a proactive approach to tourism development, with a clear focus on legislative advocacy, community collaboration, and strategic marketing efforts. These initiatives aim to enhance the local economy and improve the overall visitor experience in Gage County.