Meeting Minutes

Meeting was called to order by Carol Johnson at 7:30am. Marc Abshire led the flag salute.

Minutes:

Minutes will be voted on at January 7, 2020 meeting.

Guests:

Bob Martinson, PDN reporter and photographer

History Minute:

Peggy presented several events from one hundred years ago.

Announcements:

Julie H. said Kitsap Bank is collecting items for the Humane Society.

Edna P. reminded the group that PA Panto is at Edna’s Place this year!

Business:

Carol Johnson presented a copy of a letter to be sent to the Department of Ecology on the proposed stormwater rule that would “place the unincorporated portion of Port Angeles Urban Growth Area under the coverage of the Western Washington phase 2 permit …” Jack Glaubert moved and Dan Shotthafer seconded sending the letter. Randy J. said he felt city water was already in good condition. Motion carried.

Carol then presented several position papers to be given to the Governmental Affairs Committee. One covered the subject of better tools and funding to combat homelessness. The other, requirements and costs of commercial building energy rules. Dan Gase moved and Andrew M. seconded the motion to send letters to the said committee. Motion carried.

Program:  Marc Abshire, Chamber of Commerce Executive Director

Marc covered some of the highlights of 2019 and plans for 2020.

He said the 2015/16 strategic plan is marching on. Even though membership revenue is up, the Chamber is no longer just a membership club for businesses. It is going back to its 19th century roots and is concentrating on community leadership and building through capital support. Revenue has gone from $311,000.00 in 2017 to $634,000.00 in 2018. A million-dollar year is expected very soon.

A new bookkeeper, events coordinator, and a three-year building contract were accomplished in 2019. A business climate survey indicated to need to add more to the plate. Events such as the Winter Village, Maritime Festival and change in the bylaws to include a younger board member were also seen.

The Winter Village is off to a good start thanks to community volunteers, longer rink, longer hours, and more reservations from school and community groups.

Marc is hoping that the Village, a new hotel, remodeling of another hotel, a performing arts center and sports events such as basketball and pickleball tournaments will lead to the area becoming a winter destination. Thanks to articles in THE SUNSET MAGAZINE and a Seattle newspaper, interests have come in from Arizona, Nevada and California, just to mention a few. Relocation of US Coast Guard families continue to bring in inquiries.

Marc added that even though the Chamber is interested in getting events going, it hope the events will be able to go out on their own. He continues to work with PABA, PADA, EDC, COIN (Clallam Opportunity Investment Network) and the Chambers from Sequim and Forks to chart a better course for 2020 and beyond.

Marc said events and construction could soon bring over $130 million to the local economy. He thanked Edna for saving PA Panto by making “Edna’s Place” available for the presentation.

Meeting adjourned at 8:49am.