The Central Chamber Report

    The Board of Directors of the Central Chamber recently held its annual planning meeting for 2016.  Each year the board assesses the directions of the chamber, how well we are doing in meeting our goals, and what we would like to accomplish in the coming year.  
    In 2015 we celebrated 10 years of the Central Chamber of Commerce’s service to our business community.  In April 2015 we held an Anniversary Celebration at Central Square to mark this milestone.  The Central Chamber is looking forward to the next 10 years of service to our commerce community.  In order to be effective in our service in 2016 and beyond, the Central Chamber has adopted the following goals:
1. To be the representative voice of the business community
2. Promote local businesses and encourage “Shop Central First” initiatives to bolster our local economy
3. Provide valuable networking opportunities for our investors
4. Support and help facilitate business retention, growth, expansion, and development
5. Support and encourage strong community educational endeavors that will help to enhance workforce development
6. Keep our members informed of governmental actions on the federal, state and local levels that could affect business
    To carry out these goals, committee work will be an important function for the Central Chamber.  In 2015, we saw a need to establish new committees that would help us better inform and serve our investors. Thus, in 2015 we started the Public Policy Committee, Business Relations Committee, and the Educational Workforce Development Committee.  Furthermore, we enhanced the viability of the Membership Development Committee, Ambassadors Group, and our various event committees.  Over the course of 2015 these committees continued to meet, carry out duties, evolve and establish a clearer plan of work.  As we head into 2016 these standing committees are ready to spring into action and move to the next level.  If you would be interested in serving on one of these and are a member of the Central Chamber, call the office for details.  
    2016 promises to be a powerful and dynamic year for the Central Chamber.  We invite all businesses, whether home-based, street front, commercial, retail, or other to join the movement!  Together, we are strong! 
    The Mission of the Central Chamber shall be to guide, inspire, and promote the business and professional interests of its members and to enhance the economic, cultural and recreational opportunities of the citizens of Central.