The Douglas County Board of Commissioners held a Community Services meeting on March 4, 2024, focusing on the economic impact of tourism and community development initiatives. The meeting highlighted the recovery of revenue following the pandemic, with current annual figures reaching $5 million, a significant increase from the low of $1.8 million during COVID-19.

Catherine, a key speaker, emphasized the positive effects of the county's tourism funding, which has contributed over $52 million to the community, enhancing job creation, restaurant sales, and overall quality of life. The partnership with Visit Omaha was underscored as vital for promoting the county's attractions and events.

Dev Ward, the executive director of Visit Omaha, discussed the organization's role in supporting local applicants seeking funding for events. He noted that Visit Omaha provides resources to help assess the economic impact of events, particularly for new projects. Ward encouraged collaboration between applicants and Visit Omaha to maximize the potential benefits of tourism.

The meeting also addressed the distribution of lodging tax revenue, explaining that a 5% tax on hotel rooms in Douglas County contributes to both local promotion and community improvements. The county retains 2% of the tax for development, while Visit Omaha uses its share to market the area to potential visitors.

Overall, the meeting reinforced the importance of tourism as a driver of economic growth in Douglas County, with plans for continued collaboration between the county and Visit Omaha to enhance community offerings and attract visitors.