| Agenda & Minutes: May 2008 |
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Fulton Chamber of Commerce
Adjourn Fulton Chamber of Commerce Minutes from April 8, 2008
Attendance: Linda Hollis, Bill Stoermer, Shirl Wierenga-Huber, Chuck Dykstra, Paula Rogis, Patti Housenga, Heather Bennett, Bill Wilkin, and Lynne Loerop
Absent: Steve Owen
Minutes: A motion was made by Housenga and seconded by Wierenga-Huber to approve the minutes from March 11, 2008. Motion carried.
Treasurer's Report: Hollis reviewed report noting expenses and income for the month of March: $704.06 revenue and $1,308.11 expenses, leaving a balance of $13,130.81. A motion was made by Dykstra and seconded by Stoermer to accept the March Treasurer's Report. Motion carried. Bennett provided a year to date budget report. The chamber had to pay a $200 penalty fee to the IRS for filing their taxes late.
Executive: The monthly Executive Director meeting report was provided to the chamber board. The bounce house had been ordered ($450) and will be located in a grassy area at the corner of 4th Street and 9th Avenue. Fulton Corporation has agreed to allow the use of their property and a power supply at no cost. Chuck Dykstra has offered his small trailer to be used as a float for the Dutch Days Parade. Patti Housenga and Paula Rogis will assist Bennett with decorating the trailer for the parade. The Annual Membership Dinner is scheduled for Thursday, June 19, 2008. By consensus, the board decided to hold the dinner at Manny's Too new banquet facility. Paula Rogis and Heather Bennett will contact Kathy Kingery regarding a menu. The board would like to cost to be around $15 to $20/person. A motion was made by Bill Stoermer and seconded by Chuck Dykstra to ask Eric Johnson, Randy Clary, and Deb Riggen to be on the nominating committee. Motion carried. Board members whose three-year terms have expired are: Shirl Wierenga-Huber, Bill Stoermer, and Steve Owen. A board member can serve two consecutive three-year terms and the outgoing board members have only served one term. Once the nominating committee has given their nominations to the board, the nominees will then be forwarded to the chamber membership for notice and/or petition.
Tourism & Promotions: Copies of the March/April advertising were provided. The Cubs vs. Cardinals baseball game is set for August 9, 2008. Bennett reviewed the minutes from the Fall Festival Committee. The FF Committee has chosen the theme "Marking the Fall Season" and will accentuate the river and Mark Twain. The volunteer fair was held Saturday, April 5, 2008, but attendance was minimal. The chamber did acquire three signatures from people interested in volunteering during events.
Government Affairs: Bill Stoermer gave a presentation to the city council regarding the Competitive Communities Initiative. The council has approved the following CCI steering committee: Wendel Davelaar, Gayle Brinkman, Lora Fish, Bill Stoermer, Larry Russell, Mike Ottens, Wendy Ottens, and Charlie Letcher. Another one or two committee members may be named at a later date. The CCI application has been sent to the state and the city is waiting word on our acceptance. If accepted, the state will guide us through the entire process of a strategic plan for Fulton. Bill Stoermer mentioned he attended the Springfield Lobby Trip for the Quad Cities and has some suggestions as the chamber plans next year's lobby trip. Bill will work with Heather on coordinating a visit with Congressman Manzullo this summer.
Member Relations: Bennett provided minutes from the Member Education Committee meeting. The Donuts & Discussion with the River Bend School District will be held Saturday, April 19, 2008, from 9am to 10am at the Masonic Lodge. Superintendent Dr. Jane Bauer and the principals from each school will be in attendance. The Member Education Committee chose to have the D & D on a Saturday because it will be open to the public and parents could attend. Bennett provided minutes from the Bridal & Anniversary Walk committee. The Bridal & Anniversary Walk is set for June 26 from 4:30pm to 7:30pm in downtown Fulton. Bill Stoermer has been added to the Dutch Days Committee.
Downtown: Chuck Dykstra briefly updated the board on the progress being made to the former Vander Vinne building located in downtown Fulton. The tin ceiling has been completely restored and painted. All new walls have been erected and painted in the Gymnastics Studio. Between May 15 and June 1 the façade including all new windows and a marquee will be constructed. All three units (2 apartments and store front) are currently rented. Beginning in September, the FRDG will collect $1,235/month in rent.
Old/New Business: Bill Stoermer suggested an invitation be extended to the new Clinton Chamber President to come to the next board meeting so they can introduce themselves.
Adjourn: A motion was made by Dykstra and seconded by Housenga to adjourn the meeting at 12:50pm. Motion carried.
Next board meeting: Tuesday, May 13, 2008 at Noon. |