Little Falls Area Chamber of Commerce and Visit Little Falls Merger

Little Falls Area Chamber of Commerce and Visit Little Falls are really excited about the opportunity to merge our two healthy organizations to create a bigger impact in our community. While we are navigating the details and doing our due diligence to make sure this is the right decision for both organizations and the many people we serve, we know you might have some questions. We’ve compiled this FAQ page to answer the ones we are hearing most often. If you don’t find your answer here or want to share your thoughts with us, we encourage you to complete this short form.

Thank you for your interest and your patience while we work through this process.

Why are you considering a merger?

We believe a merged organization will have a greater impact on our community by combining our resources to lower overall overhead expenses and eliminate duplication of work. This will increase our capacity to promote the Little Falls area and businesses across Morrison County.

We plan to maximize our resources, create a “one stop shop” feel for our stakeholders, expand our services, and be a stronger, more resilient organization.

What is the timeframe for the merger? When will it be complete?

Both the organizations (Little Falls Area Chamber and Visit Little Falls) have met at the beginning of April to go over the next steps. An attorney has been hired for going through the legal process. The Chamber will then put out a vote for the merger to happen to its members. Once the votes are in, next steps to file the paperwork with the secretary of state will be followed. We anticipate to start the filing process with the state in Mid June.

More details to come post the vote.

How will the tourism tax dollars be used? What impact does the merger have on those funds?

Tax dollars will continue to be used in the same ways they have with Visit Little Falls. With a reduction in overhead costs, we anticipate having additional resources for promoting Little Falls and attracting visitors to shop, stay and play here.

I’m a current Chamber member; will my dues increase?

Chamber dues, like all expenses, increase naturally over time. However, we don’t anticipate any changes as a result of this merger.

Where will the merged organization be located?

We plan to use The Depot as our combined location. The Depot has more office space, is handicap accessible and easy to find. We are working on a plan for the Rosenmeier House.

I’m not a business. How does this affect me?

Increased support to businesses is a benefit for all of us. When we have thriving businesses and vibrant downtowns our communities are stronger, more resilient and attractive to new opportunities. Strong businesses also contribute to the tax revenue which provides increased services to the community through well-maintained roads, strong schools and other social services. A rising tide lifts all boats!

As you probably know, both organizations host fun, entertaining community events all year round. We anticipate that this merger will allow us to continue and maybe even enhance those events.

What changes can we expect to see this year?

To allow our board and staff time to focus on this merger, we may hold off on some events/offerings this year. However, our most popular events are likely to continue as usual.

• Chamber Annual Meeting: This event is scheduled for May 18.
• Chamber Golf Event: This event will continue as usual.
• Little Falls Craft Fair: This event will continue as usual.
• Chamber Sporting Clays: This event will continue as usual.
• Christmas Tours: There are no plans to change this event, and its four locations in the immediate future.
• Winter Wonderland: This light display is undecided at this time.

Is the Craft Fair going to be canceled or postponed?

No, the Little Falls Craft Fair will continue as usual.