Minutes: November 10, 2022
Held at: Dogs in Vests, Inc.
Stood for Pledge of Allegiance
President Heidi D. called the meeting to order
All present introduced themselves
Kim Brotz read the Treasurer Report-Taxes for the Chamber were filed today,
nothing owed. Alissa made motion to accept Treasurer Report Roger 2 nd , motion
passed.
Note: This meeting was held for the purpose of determining the future of the
Chamber. Attendance was strongly encouraged. Total attendance-3 officers and
8 business/community members. Very small attendance.
The Treasurer’s report was read by Heidi. It only included the Car Show 2022
figures. There was good attendance at the Car Show and it made $2,931.96.
Roger I. made a motion to accept the Treasurer report, 2 nd by Dale M.
There was no Secretary’s report given. Last meeting was in July and Michelle was
not present to take notes. Not sure who did the notes for that meeting.
OLD BUSINESS:
Car Show 2022 wrap up report was given. Rick and his crew did a great job with the breakfast. The raffles and amount of volunteers were good.
Heidi discussed possibly approaching the Lions Club to take over the Car Show starting next year.
A donation of $500 will be made on behalf of the Chamber to 88 Charlies. Paul H. commented about what an awesome program this is and talked about how the kids rebuild airplanes. Great training for kids and they are rewarded with flight training. Angela V. made a motion to accept donation of $500, 2nd by Alissa S.
New Business:
Discussion ensued on the future of the Palmyra Chamber of Commerce. Heidi announced that no one had expressed an interest in any of the Chamber officer positions. Current officers of the Chamber are not interested in serving another term.
Angela V. commented on the lack of engagement of the business community in the Chamber meetings and functions. Many attendees commented that Palmyra is lacking in attendance and engagement needed to sustain a chamber of commerce.
The Palmyra Chamber has had the same officers for several years and no one is willing to take over those responsibilities.
Attendance is also an issue and very low at the majority of the meetings. Many members join the Chamber but never engage.
Roger I. suggested having a paid organizer to run the Chamber. Many disagreed with doing this as we would be paying someone to do what the current officers have been doing, but would still not have the engagement needed to be successful. There are no benefits for business owners as there is little networking. Rebecca M. stated she did not join the Chamber just to volunteer for events.
Members asked if Kirstin who currently maintains Chamber website would be willing to help other members with social media. Michelle will inquire.
Some ideas were discussed to get better engagement. Helping members to see overall plan for town.
Roger I. said there might be funding available to help the town with improvements.
Michelle pointed out links on Chamber website to State of Wisconsin funding.
Dale M. suggested members make presentations monthly to tell others about their business.
Heidi acknowledged there were a lot of good ideas but she was no longer willing to lead the Chamber.
Michelle will gather some information regarding dissolving Chamber. It was decided that next meeting a vote would be taken to decide if the Chamber takes a hiatus or if it should be dissolved.
Other Items;
The new development was briefly discussed. 250-300 homes and will take place in 2-5 years.
Alissa S. from the beautification committee shared an update on the fundraising for the mural to be painted on Hot Rods.
Dale M. shared that the Legion is selling Christmas Remembrance Bows for $10. The bows will also be sold during the Christmas Parade. You can dedicate a bow to a friend or family member that has served.
The next date and time of meeting are to be determined.
Rebecca M. made a motion to adjourn, 2 nd by Angela V.
Adjourn