February 7, 2008

MINUTES OF THE MEETING

 

The meeting was held in Community Building located at 908 Huron Street, Benkelman, NE.  Members present: Rita Jones, Linda Melchert, Joyce Blair, Bob Prangley, Bill Lewis Gary Clark, Ben Blecha, Joya Neville, Janice Edwards, Linda Jones and Gene Jones.

1.         The meeting started at 6:00 pm and was called to order by President, Rita Jones.  Minutes from the previous meeting were reviewed, motion to approve was made by Linda Melchert and seconded by Linda Jones, motion carried. 

2.         Treasurer Report- Gary Clark submitted a copy for all to review, motion to approve the report was made by Bob Prangley and seconded by Linda Melchert, motion carried.

3.         Old Business –

a.      Action Group Reports:

                                    i.      Spring Fling – Gary Clark is heading up efforts to organize a group of volunteers to clean up the water spring located on old US 34 highway east of Benkelman.

                                    ii.      Website Communications – A wireless hotspot is proposed at the Dundy County Library.  There will be a one time charge of $40 for the modem, Library will pay monthly fee to maintain hotspot.  Motion by Bob Prangley and second by Gary Clark for Chamber to sponsor and pay $40 fee – motion carried.

                                   iii.      Retail –

1.   Discussion on homes listed and not listed on the website, item tabled pending clarification on legal responsibility.

2.   Recruiting efforts by Bob Prangley have been positive yielding (3) checks from businesses and an additional verbal commitment from a new business. Incentive idea for more recruitment was to have a weekly release in the post with a photo of new Chamber members (courtesy of Bob Prangley).

3.  Business Development Projects – there is two professionals in the community considering the acquisition of an additional business.

4.  Efforts under way to develop a plan to bring satellite retail outlets to Benkelman potential businesses are Sears, Family Dollar and ALCO.  A development grant will be required to prepare sites and outdoor building facades.  Working title for the project “Rural America Outlet Stores”.

5.  Chamber/City Cooperation Efforts – yielded positive results for Valley Farm Industries receiving grant for expansion with a low- interest loan that will result in funds coming back to the community for economic development.

The City of Benkelman is moving forward to apply for a $400,000 grant for an Owner Occupied Rehabilitation Housing project that will bring improvements and construction projects to our community.  This program is structured to allow communities to improve the appearance and quality of housing. The Chamber will look into updating the community survey for future use on these of type’s projects.

The Dundy County Chamber of Commerce and Development will continue to provide full support and assistance to our business oriented City Government in these matters.

4.          New Business

a.   Ben Blecha reported brochures showcasing Dundy County services have been prepared and are ready for print.  Motion to approve printing of 5000 brochures at a cost of approximately $1400 was made by Linda Melchert and seconded by Gary Clark, motion carried.

b.  Annual dues letters will be sent out soon, fee for 2008 for all members - $25.  Motion by Gary Clark and second by Bill Lewis to establish 3 levels for donation 1st level - $250 Platinum level; 2nd level - $100 Gold level and 3rd level $25 Silver level.  Only $25 is required but this offers those who want to contribute at a higher level to receive recognition for their donation.

 

5.         Adjournment

a.   Meeting adjourned at 7:15 pm.