Chamber of commerce cutting costs

Citing economic struggles and the development of new business technologies, The Colony Chamber of Commerce board of directors has made the decision to downsize the organization in order to both boost business and create a stronger chamber.

According to a release, the strategy they’ve adopted, dubbed “Right Sizing,” will include selling their property at 6900 Main Street as a means to settle previous outstanding financial obligations.

“Like the businesses we support, our operating costs need to match the current economy,” said Mark Hitz, media resource director for the chamber, adding that the national recession has led to a decrease in membership and curtailed monies coming in from member businesses.

The “Right Sizing” strategy will include “reducing operating costs by eliminating the executive director position and hiring a part-time manager, and reevaluating the scope of the annual Pirate Days festival known as a well favored signature event held in The Colony,” stated the release.

Longtime Executive Director Allison Mihavics submitted her resignation to the board at its monthly meeting on June 9.

As for the economic state of the city, “We’re hurting, like all of our neighbors, but we’re recovering,” said City Manager Troy Powell, adding that, “we’re taking steps to make sure we can get through this.”

The chamber, however, looks forward to continue serving the community progressively.

“The chamber board of directors is excited about these promising changes, which will greatly improve the continued activities that members have expressed are most important to them,” stated the release, adding that weekly Friday Focus breakfasts, monthly membership dinners and other networking events throughout the year will continue to allow members to showcase their businesses.

Meanwhile, the city’s interest in the Main Street property will be up for debate at the July 6 council meeting, Powell said.

The Chamber will continue their core events, such as ribbon cutting and publishing The Colony Connection. The Colony Chamber of Commerce was founded in 1979 and has promoted business development for over 30 years.

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