What is the Chamber?

The goal of the Chamber of Commerce is to promote the commercial, industrial, civic, cultural and general interests of the city and county.
Action Committees working to accomplish these goals may include those working in the areas of industrial development, agriculture, aviation, conventions, membership, citizenship, publicity, highways, civic affairs, retail promotions, water resources and tourism.

Every resident, business and professional person derives direct benefits in developing a stable economy.The Chamber of Commerce is a voluntary organization of citizens who are investing their time and money in a community development program - working together to improve the economic, civic and cultural well being of the area.

Any citizen who is interested in helping to develop the area, which means more money, more business, more jobs and better livings for everyone, is eligible to be a member of the Chamber of Commerce. The dues structure is designed to permit even the smallest business to be a member.

The work of the Chamber is financed by the investment of members who support it on the basis of their ability to pay and their interest in the progress of the area. The Chamber of Commerce is composed of Committee Workers, Directors and Officers who serve without pay. When budgets allow, a Chamber Executive and staff devote their full time to the Chamber of Commerce as the only paid employees.

What Does The Chamber Do?

The Chamber of Commerce is a service institution and an action organization.

It provides a medium through which people can take effective action for the progress of the community.
It helps create job opportunities through stimulation of industrial and commercial growth.
It seeks the improvement of community facilities: streets, highways, parks, schools, marketing facilities and human resources.
It brings conventions, sales meetings and other gatherings to the city.
It works toward developing the agriculture industry of the area.
In all of these functions, the Chamber of Commerce is serving as a department - a partner- of every business and every professional person in the area.

How Does It Function?

The Chamber of Commerce functions through the working committees of the organization. Money, planning, inspiration and guidance are useless unless the members work vigorously on the committee of their choice.

Careful study is made of the community needs and an action blueprint - the Program of Work - is designed. The goal of the Program is always to create more dollars for more people and to improve the economic welfare of the community.

Every member has a voice in determining the policies and projects and every member is needed to work on active committees to get the job done.

For the Retailer - Works for industrial and business development which brings with it new residents with new money to spend in the stores. Maintains a continuous program for inviting convention delegates. National surveys reveal that 20% of the convention dollar is spent in retail stores.

For the Service Establishment - Works for the ever increasing population, assuring additional customers and income. Works toward increasing development of highways, recreational areas, new industries and the expansion of old existing industries, all of which increase the demand for services.

For the Manufacturer and Wholesaler - Works for the best shipping services at the lowest possible costs. Furnishes advice on freight transportation matters. Compiles various statistical information on trade territory, population, purchasing power and market strength.

For the Construction, Real Estate, Investment and Insurance Firm - Provides an expanding market for the construction, real estate and insurance dealers through its program of attracting new industry and residents, promoting business and working for new highways and streets. Encourages expansion programs and modernization for established firms. Actively works for fire prevention.

For the Professional - Works continuously for the growth of the city, business expansion and population increase to insure the Professional a prosperous place in which to make a living. Seeks better transportation services to make the city more accessible and convenient . Conducts an overall program which is key to improve the income of the Professionals' clients for maximum benefit.

For the Farmer, Rancher - Encourages and promotes sound agricultural programs and practices with major attention to soil conversion and livestock programs. Frequently coordinates planning of agricultural agencies and sponsors joint efforts in the improvement of ranching and farming techniques to increase profits.

For the Hotel, Motel, Restaurant Operator - Works to attract and service conventions, trade shows, conferences and sales meetings which brings new patrons and money into businesses. National surveys reveal that more than 40% of the convention dollar is spent in hotels, motels and restaurants. Works to expand the tourism business. Brings in sports and amusement attractions with large crowds.

For the Home and Property Owner - Conducts an intensive city beautification program with cleanliness, street lighting and other projects aimed at making your city a better place in which to live. Cooperates with church, cultural and entertainment groups to provide a more interesting and meaningful life for residents and visitors. Cooperates with educational facilities to insure a quality educational system.

For All Members - Represents the opinions of the members to city, state and national elected officials and monitors legislative issues that impact the membership.