Minutes from MCCC meeting September 17, 2009, 7:00 p.m., Alberton Town Hall
Present: Kathy Woodford, Christine Sampson, Mary Jo Berry, George Bailey, Anita Bailey
1. Minutes from August 20 meeting were read and approved.
2. Treasurer’s Report – Mary Jo reported that the checking account balance is $1875.33 and savings balance is $624.37. Two bills remain unpaid: Windfall - $50.00 & Missoula Convention Bureau - $287.50. George will call around to check on the bill to the Convention Bureau. Anita made the motion to have the treasurer present the bills at each meeting for discussion and approval. Mary Jo seconded, motion passed.
3. Chamber website – www.MontanaRockies.org Presentation by Glenda Wallace, webmaster Glenda handed out printouts and explained each page of the website. She explained how she chooses and uses keywords to drive internet users to the site and how she can track the number of visitors, how long they stay, and what pages they view. She reported that most people view the ‘events’ page and the ‘business directory’ page. Glenda also has designed web pages for new members at no cost. There was a lot of discussion and suggestions. Glenda stated that the pages where she needs input are the ‘business directory’, ‘events’, and ‘recreation’. An interactive tour map was suggested. Anita will send a list of paid-up Chamber businesses and their websites so the business directory can be updated. Mary Jo will send pictures of various recent community events. Businesses and organizations are encouraged to send announcements for their upcoming events to be posted on the website. Glenda’s e-mail address is gswrite@blackfoot.net
4. EPA TAG grant update – George has been notified that the Chamber is the only applicant for the grant offered by the EPA. The grant application will be written in October.
5. Clark Fork River cleanup – George reported that over 1600 lbs. of garbage was picked up and about 50 people participated. It is anticipated that this will become an annual event.
6. Car Show – Mary Jo reported that the organizers of the annual car show held in Superior are looking for a group to help sponsor and organize the 1-day event, which brings many people into the community. Profits from the car show are used to sponsor 3 college scholarships for graduates of St. Regis, Superior, and Alberton high schools. Mary Jo will get more information, specifically what the financial and time commitment would be, if the Chamber were to support this event.
7. Action Items for 1910 Fire Anniversary Commemoration – Anita will contact Sue McLees and Carole Johnson about putting information on the website. More will be discussed at next meeting.
8. Office Space for Chamber – It was suggested that it would be beneficial to have a physical presence for the Chamber. Office space will become available at the old post office in Superior, 102 River St. This item was tabled until the next meeting.
9. Membership – Anita reported that there are 17 Chamber member businesses & non-profit groups for 2009. There was a discussion about membership and member benefits. It was decided to put together a member benefits package at the Oct. meeting, send out 2010 member applications in Nov., and elect Chamber officers in Dec.
Meeting adjourned. Next meeting: Thursday, October 15, 7:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Anita Bailey, Chamber Secretary