The Kelso-Longview Chamber of Commerce is seeking multi-year financial commitments from local governments to prepare for the 50th anniversary of the Mount St. Helens eruption, an event scheduled for May 2030. According to reporting by KLOG News, Chamber CEO Bonnie Delaney recently presented the proposal to the Longview City Council, describing the milestone as a significant opportunity for regional tourism.
KLOG News reported that Delaney addressed the council on August 11, 2026, requesting that the city consider two specific annual funding allocations to support the lead-up to the anniversary:
- $20,000 per year to support the operations of the Cowlitz Visitors Center.
- $15,000 per year for a marketing campaign focused on website development, social media, and digital content to attract tourists from the Portland area and Southwest Washington.
The request comes as Longview officials manage other significant fiscal priorities. As previously reported on July 31, 2026, the Longview City Council has placed a fire and EMS levy lid lift on the November ballot to fund a new fire station and increased staffing, which would cost the owner of a median-priced home approximately $32 per month if approved.
Delaney stated that she has initiated outreach to other municipalities, chamber groups, and tourism organizations to coordinate planning for the May 18, 1980, eruption anniversary. While discussions have occurred with the City of Kelso and Cowlitz County, Delaney indicated that Cowlitz County Commissioners expressed uncertainty regarding whether the anniversary preparations align with their current vision.
Cowlitz County Tourism Director Kim Bowcutt confirmed that discussions regarding the 2030 anniversary are underway. Bowcutt noted that while the county is engaged in the process, they intend to maintain the Chamber’s momentum for the project.
The Chamber’s proposal emphasizes that early investment is necessary to ensure the region’s infrastructure and promotional materials are ready for the anticipated influx of visitors in four years. The City of Longview is also currently managing its 2026 Annual Action Plan for federal housing and community development grants, which recently concluded its public comment period.
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