Fulton Chamber of Commerce
Minutes from January 9, 2007

Attendance:  Bill Wilkin, Shirl Wierenga-Huber, Lynne Loerop, Paula Rogis, Patti Housenga, Sue Mannix, Linda Hollis, Chuck Dykstra and Heather Bennett.

Minutes:  A motion was made by Rogis and seconded by Mannix to approve the minutes from December 12, 2006.  Motion carried.     

Treasurer’s Report:  Hollis reviewed report noting expenses and income for the month of December:  $2,133.51 revenue and $1,815.16 expenses, leaving a balance of $15,947.33.  A motion was made by Loerop and seconded by Rogis to accept the treasurer’s report.  Motion carried.  Bennett provided a year to date budget report.  

Executive:  The by-laws review committee will meet January 17, 2007.   
           
Tourism & Promotions:    Copies of the December advertising were provided.  There was nothing further to report on the International Wooden Shoe Display. 

Government Affairs:   From the input received from the on-line survey and planning session, the chamber has scheduled a Donuts & Discussions with the Fulton Fire Dept. and Fulton Police Dept. for Wednesday, Feb. 7 from 9am to 10am, Fulton Masonic Lodge.  Bennett reported she would most likely be headed to Washington, DC in early to mid February in an effort to lobby for the four lane of US Route 30.  Other attendees will include Dave Vogel, Eric Johnson, Betty Steinert and Barb Bees.  February is a good time to attend because budget appropriations are usually earmarked in late Spring. 

Member Relations:  Bennett reminded board of the upcoming ribbon cutting for Dream Rental on January 22.  In addition, Bennett has made contact with several other new businesses (Visual Imaging, Windmill Realty, Paradise Pools, and Treasures on the River) for a ribbon cutting.  Many of the chamber spotlights have been updated and new photos taken.  Rogis noted the Fulton Journal has been inquiring about the end of the spotlights.  The Fulton Bridal Walk will have its first meeting on January 12 to determine the date, time and logistics of the event.  Several people have expressed an interest in helping organize the event:  Susan May, Heidi Kolk, Chuck Dykstra, Greg Naftzger, Audrey Kooi and Heather Bennett. 

Downtown:  No Report. 

Old/New Business:  FACE (Fulton Association for Community Enrichment) recently sent out information to chamber members, Fulton organizations and local press.   The group is an official organization recognized by the State of Illinois, but is currently in the process of filing for their tax exemption.  River Bend School District requested Heather Bennett participate in updating their technology plan.  There will be two half day meetings, but Heather is only able to attend one due to the trip to Washington, DC.  Shirl Wierenga-Huber reminded Bennett that Kathy Dion and Anna Ryder, as new businesses, should receive a free membership, during the membership year. 

A motion was made by Mannix and seconded by Rogis to adjourn meeting.  Motion carried. 
Meeting adjourned at 12:40pm

The next board meeting will be held Tuesday, February 20, 2007 at noon The meeting was changed due to Bennett being in Washington, DC during the regularly scheduled meeting.