Letter from the President
As the new President and CEO, I’m happy to say that in my first year at the Chamber, I’ve seen many changes come about. Internally, we’ve adjusted staff and office efficiency, reviewed our programs and events to make positive changes, and enhanced the benefits of membership. We have increased our outreach into the community through the press and revamped many of our communication pieces to focus on members. Our team is stronger than ever and here to assist you.
I have had the opportunity to meet many of you and I strive to meet many more. I want to hear your concerns and what you need from us. As a membership organization, I know ultimately I am here to serve you. Given that, we have restructured many of our committees to focus on your needs and get legislators to hear your voice. Our focus for 2010 is jobs, growth and a pro-business agenda.
In 2010 we will focus on how we can better highlight our member businesses to other businesses and new customers. I would encourage you, as a Chamber member, to work with other members first. While you see other initiatives to “buy local,” I’d ask you to take it a step further and “buy local Chamber!”
The economic partner of the Chamber, the Boise Valley Economic Partnership (BVEP), strives to bring new businesses, and therefore jobs, to our community. It is through their efforts that we have seen continued interest in our great area. The representatives visiting from prospective businesses have seen the high quality of life and low cost of living we enjoy here. Site selectors who visit are also mesmerized by the beauty of this community and consider these important features when making decisions about relocating or expanding their business. Going forward, we hope to continue their efforts and work with local research universities to continue to attract business and investment in the Boise Valley.
In conclusion, 2010 will be an important year for our community and the Chamber. We will continue to strive to be one of the best Chambers in the nation and stand behind our members to make their businesses flourish. Thank you for your membership and continued support of our mission.
Bill Connors, President & CEO
Boise Metro Chamber of Commerce