Attendance numbers have been dropping at Carter County Chamber of Commerce meetings for several months. Board members have struggled to accomplish goals that were set at the beginning of the year. Currently, there are around sixty-five chamber members. This list includes several businesses throughout the county, as well as area ranchers and individuals. Yet, there is usually only around five members present at monthly meetings.

Why is attendance so low? Efforts have been made to shorten meetings and ensure that chamber tasks are worthwhile. At the beginning of the year, questionnaires were sent out to all members regarding projects slated for 2017. Only eleven of those were returned.

In the past year, the chamber has organized the community-wide yard sale, the July 4th festival on Main Street along with the fireworks display, advertised local events on the radio, put up a sign, and worked on reprinting maps of the area. Additionally, the chamber puts together raffles, sells calendars each year featuring photos of the county from local photographers, and organizes the Days of ‘85 parade.

Money raised is used on the chamber website, advertising, the 4th of July festival and fireworks, and to help during the fair. Where else should money be spent? What other events should the chamber sponsor?

Some members discussed putting together a fall festival. Others have suggested that something earlier in the year featuring several games and races on Main Street be organized. The chamber used to sponsor an appreciation dinner every year. Should any of these events take place?

Right now, none of this is possible. There simply aren’t enough bodies. The chamber struggles to even hold meetings, let alone add to their yearly slate of activities and tasks.

What should be done? What can be done? Your opinions and ideas matter. The Carter County Chamber of Commerce is struggling to survive.

If you think that it is important and should thrive, attend a meeting. Tell board members what you think should be changed, or added. Let them know why you think attendance is so low.

A Chamber of Commerce can help business owners network and grow. It can provide a platform for them to share ideas. A chamber hosts or sponsors events, fundraisers, and other activities, all with the aim of furthering the interests of the businesses and individuals who are members. What else should a Chamber of Commerce do?

The Carter County Chamber of Commerce will hold a meeting this Thursday at Wagon Wheel Café, beginning at 6:00 p.m, assuming there are enough members present for a quorum.