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Devil's Lake Chamber reports $61 million in visitor spending (2023), $490,000 workforce grant and new accessibility projects
Summary
Susie Kenner of the Devil's Lake Chamber provided the county commission an annual update highlighting roughly $61 million in direct visitor spending in 2023, a $490,000 Department of Commerce workforce grant, tourism marketing initiatives, and a wheelchair-access boating project funded with state and local grants.
Susie Kenner, representing the Devil's Lake Chamber and tourism, briefed Ramsey County commissioners on tourism activity, workforce initiatives and funding the chamber has secured.
Kenner said that, based on 2023 figures from state tourism sources, tourism generated just under $61 million in direct visitor spending. The chamber received a $490,000 Department of Commerce grant to support workforce initiatives; Kenner said half of that funding supports a retention program in local schools and that chamber-contracted partners have run job and summer hiring fairs involving about 42 businesses.
The chamber is pursuing a multi-channel marketing campaign and new branding work with an advertising firm, and plans targeted media buys aimed at feeder markets such as Minneapolis–St. Cloud and other regional areas. Kenner reported ongoing local projects to enhance downtown alleyway lighting and murals, meeting-space promotion, and partnerships to attract sporting events and meetings.
Kenner described a Wheelchairs & Walleyes accessibility project at Lakewood Park that secured a Garrison Diversion grant for about $43,000 and a Tribal grant for $12,500 to fund a wheelchair lift platform and ADA-compliant bathroom remodels; she said the wheelchair component is scheduled for completion by June 8 with a dedication and community events planned.
Kenner also listed new or expanded local tourism assets — including a county events center, resort expansions and expanded air service — and said the chamber has increased digital and print marketing and produced media partnerships and commercial shoots to promote the area.
Commissioners thanked Kenner; no formal action was required.
