Tourism stakeholders voice concerns over Commissioner Knapper's leadership in Scottsbluff County

The Scotts Bluff County Commissioners Meeting held on March 31, 2025, highlighted significant tensions surrounding the county's tourism strategy and the management of its tourism director, Brenda Lacy. The meeting, attended by various stakeholders, revealed deep divisions over the direction of tourism policy and the treatment of county employees.

A central theme of the meeting was the contentious relationship between Commissioner Charlie Knapper and Lacy, who has been suspended amid allegations of retaliation for expressing concerns about Knapper's proposed shift towards sports tourism. Critics, including local business owners and tourism stakeholders, voiced their discontent with Knapper's approach, arguing that it undermines established cultural and heritage tourism initiatives that have historically benefited the community. They emphasized that leisure tourism, which supports local attractions like the Riverside Discovery Center and the Midwest Theater, is crucial for economic diversity and community identity.

Lisa Betts Marquez, a local business owner, articulated concerns about Knapper's leadership style, describing it as unprofessional and abusive of power. She called for Knapper's removal as tourism liaison, citing a need for a more collaborative and respectful approach to tourism management. Marquez's comments were echoed by others who highlighted the economic repercussions of Lacy's suspension, including canceled events that could have generated significant revenue for local businesses.

The meeting also addressed procedural issues regarding the evaluation of Lacy's performance. Some commissioners raised questions about the fairness and transparency of the review process, suggesting that it deviated from established personnel policies. This sparked further debate about the role of liaisons and the need for clear boundaries between oversight and day-to-day management of county staff.

In conclusion, the discussions at the Scotts Bluff County Commissioners Meeting underscored a critical juncture for the county's tourism strategy. Stakeholders are calling for a reevaluation of priorities that balance sports tourism with the preservation of cultural assets. As the community grapples with these issues, the future of tourism leadership and policy in Scotts Bluff County remains uncertain, with calls for accountability and a more inclusive approach to decision-making. The next steps will likely involve further scrutiny of Knapper's role and the potential reinstatement of Lacy, as the county seeks to navigate these complex dynamics.