Civil Municipal - Feb 2024

potential impact on the city. DiNovo outlines the collaborative structure underpinning the tourism initiatives in Coos Bay. “The city’s efforts in tourism are a collective endeavor,” she explains. The Visitor and Convention Bureau, an intergovernmental agreement involving Coos Bay, North Bend, the Coquille Indian Tribe, and portions of Charleston, emphasizes this collaborative spirit. “Our budget was smaller than our northern neighbors, but by increasing our contribution, we’ve made significant strides in representing our region effectively,” she adds. The impact of these efforts on the local economy is substantial. DiNovo shares some striking statistics: “In 2022, direct visitor spending in Coos County soared to $295.9 million, a 36% increase from the previous year.” Coos Bay, North Bend, and Charleston alone accounted for $137.2 million of this spending. These figures underscore the economic significance of tourism in the region. Furthermore, DiNovo highlights the unique role of the local tribes in bolstering the tourism sector.“The Coquille Indian Tribe and the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians, with their tourism facilities, contribute significantly to our economy,” she notes.This tribal involvement enriches the cultural landscape and injects vital funds into the local tourism economy. In Coos Bay, tourism is not just an economic sector; it’s a cornerstone of the community’s livelihood.“Our largest regional employers are directly linked to tourism,” DiNovo points out. “This fact alone speaks volumes about the role of tourism in our community.” The synergy between the city’s initiatives, tribal contributions, and natural attractions like the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area has positioned Coos Bay as a dynamic and flourishing tourist destination. CHARTING COOS BAY’S PATH FORWARD: PERSPECTIVES FOR 2024 As Coos Bay strides boldly into 2024, its leaders 27 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 5, ISSUE 02 COOS BAY, OR (CI TY OF)