2012 Dues and Services: The Board is closing out the books for 2012 and preparing final bills for dues and other services. The 2013 budget is in review with additions to the advertising budget including the pay-per-click program and an expanded Trail Map. The Directors are happy to report that we are no longer using our line of credit for operations and are looking to how and where to improve advertising services for our members.
A Retail Relations Sub-committee chaired by Joan Steele (Salty Dog Gallery) will poll current and potential members in Southwest Harbor and Tremont for ideas on how to improve Chamber service. Mission Statement: The Southwest Harbor & Tremont Chamber of Commerce seeks to promote a vibrant economic community by attracting visitors and connecting them to local businesses. The Chamber is also a place for business owners to meet and work on local issues where the co-operation of the larger group is useful to accomplish goals that singly, businesses cannot achieve on their own. In addition, the Chamber contributes to the larger community by supporting worthwhile events.
Mobile Website: Should the Chamber create a mobile website? How many of our members use smartphones? How many have mobile websites to promote their own businesses?
Communications to Members: The Board discussed different mechanisms to improve communications to members.
General Manager: Advertising will start in the New Year. The position will be full time in summer and reduced hours in the winter when the office is closed. The membership will receive notice of the advertisement and the job description in January.
Bus Service: The Town Managers of Tremont and Southwest Harbor are meeting with the Island Explorer director to discuss improved bus service for the Quietside. The Chamber is working with Southwest Harbor to build a new, handicapped accessible, public restroom behind the Village Green where it is hoped the out of town bus may connect with a local bus that serves more of Tremont.
Next Board Meeting: Wednesday, January 2 @ 10AM at the Chamber Office.
