The coronavirus pandemic proved to be challenging for Brainerd lakes area resorts. But vaccinations, a decrease in COVID-19 cases and the end of a statewide mask mandate have resort managers hopeful for better times ahead.
Grand View Lodge is set to host a clinic for its employees and their families this week, and Public Health Supervisor Michelle Moritz said she's hoping more businesses will serve as COVID-19 vaccination sites.
Local lakes that froze with winter have now become open water as earlier-than-expected ice-out conditions on many bodies of water means ice-free waters in plenty of time for the fishing opener.
Resorts in the Brainerd lakes area have to contend with a dropoff in tourism during the winter months in addition to restrictions related to the coronavirus pandemic.
Nisswa’s Grand View Lodge Spa and Golf Resort was recognized as one of the top resorts globally in the annual “World’s Best Awards 2020” by Travel + Leisure magazine.
Land Services Director Gary Griffin told the board if it granted Grand View’s request, the portion of property taxes that would be paid by the resort by July 15 without penalty would be about $75,000.
