7. Tourism Committee PostingThe Scandia Economic Development Authority contracted with the University of Minnesota
Tourism Center to conduct an assessment of the potential for the development of tourism in
Scandia. The 12-month Tourism Assessment Program gathered input from community, experts,
and visitors to provide a 360-degree snapshot of current tourism in Scandia and identify
opportunities for the community to enhance or expand its tourism offerings.
The goal of tourism development in Scandia is to bring economic vitality to the city in a way
that honors and capitalizes on Scandia’s historic, cultural and environmental assets in accord
with the wishes of the Scandia community as seen through its 2040 Comprehensive Plan.
Tourism is a $15.3 billion industry in Minnesota. It is seen as having great potential for
promoting appropriate scale and focused economic development in Scandia that will benefit both
residents and visitors.
One of the Assessment report’s first recommendations was that the city establish a Tourism
Committee to lead community tourism efforts. The committee can organize and host regular
meetings to create a tourism development plan that communicates the value of tourism and local
assets, as well as implement a marketing plan to coordinate tourism promotion efforts.
Actions will include:
• Establishing ongoing community and stakeholder engagement to build support and a
vision for tourism development that aligns with community goals.
• Identify others in the community who can/should be involved in tourism.
• Invite youth, seniors and new community members to participate in tourism discussions.
• Develop a written plan for tourism development.
• Create a marketing plan for tourism in the community.
• Establish a budget for tourism promotion.
Interested residents are encouraged to apply.