Community development and tourism coordinator retiring

By Jami Makan

Debbie Harger, Blaine’s community development and tourism coordinator, is retiring after 20 years with the city.

Harger has been instrumental in organizing events and initiatives in Blaine that have boosted tourism and contributed to a shared sense of community.

“Having the opportunity to work in a place that you know and love, in a community that you know and love, has been one of the biggest benefits,” said Harger.

Over the years, Harger’s many tasks have included supporting the Blaine tourism advisory committee and overseeing the implementation of Blaine’s tourism plan. She coordinated and assisted with the design of the city logo, wayfinding signs, interpretive signs and gateway signage. She also implemented an annual marketing program as well as beautification and streetscape projects.

Every year, Harger has helped organize notable Blaine events including the Wings Over Water birding festival and the Old Fashioned Fourth of July parade.

Harger helped implement the Blaine Builder Award, which recognizes Blaine citizens and volunteers who have made a difference in Blaine. “This has been a very rewarding experience to both interview and to create a personalized award for each of the recipients,” she said.

Harger also helped implement the Yard of the Week program, which recognizes outstanding yards and gardens in the city seasonally from May through August, giving her an opportunity to meet many in the community. As part of her duties, she also administered the Blaine welcome center in downtown Blaine.

Harger wished to thank mayor Bonnie Onyon and the entire city council for their support in promoting tourism in Blaine. “I’ve always felt support from the council in all the projects we’ve done for tourism,” she said.

She also wished to thank the many volunteers who have helped make different events and projects possible. “It’s citizens, it’s volunteers,” she said. “My job would be nothing without that. I couldn’t put on an event without volunteers. It’s just not a one-man show. As I look back, I just want to say thank you to so many people.”

Harger’s last day will be at the end of July or in mid-August. In retirement, she hopes to take a cross-country trip. She plans to remain an active member of the Blaine community. “I may be leaving my position with the city, but I don’t think I can stay away from Blaine,” she said. “The people and community are too much a part of me.”