Stuart Chamber of Commerce Meeting Minutes
2010
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2009
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2008
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President Cory Hansen called the meeting to order at 7:25am. The meeting was held at Country Kitchen with 16 members in attendance. The Secretary and Treasurer’s reports were approved as submitted.
Committee Updates
SEED – No updates
Beautification
- Christmas lights have been taken down from the park.
Membership – Same status as last month.
Old Business
Received grant for trees from MidAmerican, Jeff Schwartzkopf will pick up.
Motion made by Jerry Vitzthum to donate $500.00 to Midwest Partnership, 2nd by Craig Dickson and carried.
New Business
Jerry Vitzthum will be representing Stuart Chamber at Vision Iowa Annual
Meeting @ Cultural Center on April 14th.
Next meeting will be at 7am at Country Kitchen on May 5th.
Meeting Adjourned
President, Cory Hansen called the meeting to order. An attendance sheet was passed around.
Secretary stand-in Julie Shepherd reviewed the February minutes. Troy made a motion to approve the minutes. Shannon seconded. Motion carried.
Shannon reviewed and distributed the treasurer’s report. Audrey made a motion to approve the treasurer’s report. Jerry seconded. Motion approved.
Everett gave an update on SEED stating that MWP is in the process of rezoning the rail park from agricultural to commercial.
White Pole Road – Audrey reported that the progressive dinner is scheduled for April 17th and tickets were available at Morrison Chevrolet for $25.00.
No report from Midwest Partnership.
Committee updates:
Beautification – none
Good Egg Days – Audrey said that a carnival has been reserved as well as a sanctioned kids tractor pull.
Light the Park - waiting for the snow to melt to remove Christmas decorations
Membership – Julie said that at present we have 11 unpaid members and an email has been sent out as a reminder. Also that there will be a ribbon cutting for the Stuart Fremont Theatre & Stuart Fitness on Sat. Mar 6th at noon.
Website – Nate reported that he will be putting a form on our www.stuartia.com website for presale carnival tickets.
Julie reported that we applied for a grant from the GCCF foundation in the amount of $4179.89 to help pay for the new LED community sign. Results will be known at the end of March.
Audrey made a motion to order the new sign from Rose City Signs paying the $7000 deposit needed. Troy seconded. Motion carried.
Julie will have an email sent out to members to see if anyone is interested in the old sign. Jerry is to check on the cost of the old sign.
Julie will have an email sent out for an RSVP to have 12 volunteers to assist with the Easter Egg Hunt on April 3rd.
Committee Budgets for 2010
Christmas (Light the Park) – Audrey made a motion for $2000 Kristy seconded. Motion approved.
Membership – Jerry made a motion for $250 Audrey seconded. Motion carried.
Website – Audrey made a motion for $200 Shannon seconded. Motion carried.
Good Egg Days – Everett made a motion of $8000 Kristy seconded. Motion approved.
Special Events – Kristy made a motion for $750 Shannon seconded. Motion carried.
Beautification – Jerry made a motion for $1000, Nate seconded. Motion approved.
Results from the meeting survey that was emailed out was split evenly so next months meeting will be held at 7 a.m. – Country Kitchen. Depending on the attendance will determine future meeting times.
Jerry distributed invitations to the “Learning Museum of Religious Tolerance” located in the Historic All Saints Building, which will be held Sun. Mar 7th. Doors open @ 1:30 p.m. video presentation 2 p.m.
Meeting Adjourned.
President Cory Hansen called the meeting to order at noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty with fifteen
members in attendance.
The Secretary report was approved by a motion from Julie and 2 nd by Shannon. Motion carried.
No update report from SEED(Everett), White Pole Road(Audrey), and Midwest Partnership(Ashley.
No committee updates from Beautification(Sara), Light the Park(Audrey), Special Events(Chief Smith), and Website(Nate)
Good Egg Days Committee chairman reported that the plans for Good Egg Days is progressing well and a theme has been decided on.... Riding On The Wheels Of Progress
Membership chairman Julie reported twenty memberships so far returned for 2010.
Old Business
Julie is still in process of completing funding for Guthrie County Grant for sign.
New Business
It was suggested to send out an e-mail to members to get a vote on the time for meetings to help make it accessible for more members to better able attend.
Adjournment
Chief Smith motioned to adjourn meeting at 12:51pm, 2nd by Shannon. Motion carried.
President Cory Hansen called the meeting to order at noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty with 21 members in attendance.
Shannon Wilhelm covered the motions from the previous meeting, Chief Robert Smith made the motion to approve the October minutes, Kristy Lonsdale 2nd, and the motion was carried.
No Treasurer report was given.
COMMITTEE UPDATES
Cory Hansen announced that we had two guests in attendance for the meeting. The first person announced was Ashraf M. Ashour from the Stuart City Hall who holds the position of City Administrator. Ash was there for support with the new display sign and has offered that the City will help fund the new sign with an amount to be determined later. The second guest with us was Shailesh Patel who is currently one of the new owners for the Stuart 66 Food-Mart (previously known as Stuart 66) and Economy Inn (previously known as Econo Lodge). His wife Priti Patel will be in charge of running the Econo Lodge. Shailesh made the announcement that there will be a ribbon cutting event held Tuesday November 10th at noon at the Country Kitchen for Stuart 66 Food-Mart and Economy inn.
Audrey Wells announced that for the Light the Park event this year we will not have a train however there will be a Horse drawn wagon in replace. She also mentioned that there are now Holiday bags to register for the $1000.00 (5-$200.00) Chamber Bucks giveaway. The drawing will be held at Lawbaugh Park on Saturday November 21st, during Stuart’s holiday celebration and you must be 18 and present at event to win. A total of 5 winners will be announced and sign up locations are at businesses all throughout Stuart.
Julie Shepherd announced that we have another Chamber Member that will be joining us in the year of 2010. The new business is owned by Rick C. Knowlton and is called Midwest General Services, LLC which is a licensed Electrical Contractor. Rick and his wife Carol Sue currently are residents of Stuart and have been for the past three years however they have been running the business out of Des Moines. Please extend a warm welcome to them.
New Park equipment was set up on Saturday November 7th; we like to thank all who helped out with this.
We had Dan Schuver from Daktronic and a outside sales rep named Larry Franzen from Rose City Canopy & Sign come out to our meeting and show us what the new digital sign display would look like. After viewing the different sizes we took a vote of what size the digital display should be and the majority vote said the 3ft 10in by 6ft 9in. Jeff Schwartzkopf made the motion to approve the size and Audrey Wells 2nd, and the motion carried. The main controls for this sign will be at the Stuart City Hall.
Cory Hansen made the announcement that he will be resigning as President of the
Chamber of Commerce and this is to be effective as of 2010. Cory mentioned that he
loves working with the Chamber and the community however another opportunity has
come up. Cory will still continue to reside in Stuart with his family and will be commuting
out of town for business.
With no other business Chief Robert Smith made the motion to adjourn the meeting at 12:57p.m, Kristy Lonsdale 2nd, and the motion was carried.
Respectfully Submitted,
Shannon M Wilhelm, 2009 Secretary
Stuart Chamber of Commerce
President Cory Hansen called the meeting to order at noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty with 15 members in attendance.
Shannon Wilhelm covered the motions from the previous meeting, Troy Donnelly made the motion to approve the September minutes, Jeff Howard 2nd, and the motion was carried.
Troy Donnelly submitted the Treasury’s report. Chief Robert Smith made the motion to approve the report, Jerry Vitzthum 2nd, and the motion was carried.
COMMITTEE UPDATES
SEED- Everett Shepherd mentioned that there may be a Head-Start Day Care facility coming to Stuart.
White Pole Road- Audrey Wells mentioned that there will be two touring busses passing through on the White Pole Road during the month of October.
Midwest Partnership- Ashley Feick brought up that they have many projects that they are working on right now. For example the SynGest project which is the Biomass to Ammonia plant. She also brought up that Greenfield is to have a site visit with a Telecommunications prospect based out of Idaho, with a date and time to be determined. Jason White and a project manager with the Iowa Department of Economic Development is attending the Sell Iowa Trip in Minnesota. One of the companies they will be visiting with is Headquarters of Cardinal IG, based out of Greenfield, Iowa.
Good Egg Days- A Good Egg Day Committee meeting will be held next week on Tuesday October 13th, at EJS/Shepherd Realty at noon.
Light the Park- Jeanette Woodson memorial rock is up in the park now.
Old business- Halloween Event for this year is scheduled for October 31st, and will be from 5:00p.m.-7:00-7:30 at latest. We will notify the public if anything changes with the date.
Chief Robert Smith made a motion to reimburse Jeff for expenses, Jeff Howard 2nd, and the motion was carried.
With no other business Chief Robert Smith made the motion to adjourn the meeting at 12:57p.m, Jeff Howard 2nd, and the motion was carried.
Respectfully Submitted,
Shannon M Wilhelm, 2009 Secretary
Stuart Chamber of Commerce
President Cory Hansen called the meeting to order at noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty with 9 members in attendance.
Kristie Kunkle covered the motions from the previous meeting. Robert Smith made the motion to approve the July Minutes, Troy Donnelly 2nd, and the motion carried.
Troy Donnelly submitted the Treasurer’s report. Kristy Lonsdale made the motion to approve the report, Theresa Allsup 2nd, and the motion carried.
Committee Updates
Website – Discussion was made about keeping the website updated as well as the $200 budget. It was decided this would be discussed at the next meeting.
Old Business
Cory Hansen brought to our attention that the light in Lawbaugh Park has been vandalized. There was discussion on ideas about how to protect the light from being vandalized in the future. There will be more discussion at the next meeting.
Troy Donnelly received a bill for $234 from WCV Schools for the materials from making the bike racks. Jeff Schwartzkopf made the motion to pay $234 to WCV Schools, Robert Smith 2nd, and the motion carried.
New Business
Cory Hansen discussed repairing the Stuart Sign at McDonalds. To replace the missing letter the cost would be $150. Robert Smith made the motion to pay the $150 to repair the sign, Jeff Schwartzkopf 2nd, and the motion carried.
The Teachers Breakfast is scheduled for August 17th at All Saints Catholic Church starting at 7:30am and ending around 8:30am. An email will be sent in a few days to ask for volunteers.
With no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 1:00pm.
The next regular monthly business meeting of the Chamber will be Wednesday, September 2nd, 2009 noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty.
Respectfully Submitted,
Kristie Kunkle, 2009 Secretary
Stuart Chamber of Commerce
President Cory Hansen called the meeting to order at noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty with 18 members in attendance.
Kristie Kunkle covered the motions from the previous meeting. Troy Donnelly made the motion to approve the June Minutes, Robert Smith 2nd, and the motion carried.
Troy Donnelly submitted the Treasurer’s report. Kristy Lonsdale made the motion to approve the report, Nadine Avey 2nd, and the motion carried.
Cory Hansen welcomed Jeff Howard with the Stuart Rescue Unit.
WHITE POLE ROAD – The White Pole Road Tractor Ride is the first weekend in August. It will start and end in Dexter.
Audrey Wells handed out White Pole Road Business Directories.
Committee Updates
Beautification – With the construction of the library the sign will be moved to a new location. The planters will need to be relocated. Jeff Schwartzkopf will get in contact with people to help.
Good Egg Days – Julie Shepherd requested an additional $60 for the spelling bee. Robert Smith made the motion to approve $60 out of the general budget, Nate Westre 2nd, and the motion carried.
Membership – Julie Shepherd announced Daugherty Auction and Stuart Rescue Unit are the two newest members.
Website – Nate Westre asked the Chamber to review the website. He would like to add pictures from Good Egg Days. Also, if anyone is interested in advertising please contact Nate.
Old Business
Julie Shepherd made the motion to pay Rose Swalla $200 for painting the egg, Audrey Wells 2nd, and the motion carried.
New Business
Nate Westre asked the Chamber for support in having another Street Dance which would be held August 29, 2009. After discussion, it was decided that more information is needed before a motion is made.
Vince Wells was contacted by Stuart Speedway and asked if Chamber Members would be interested in sponsoring a race. The Speedway would advertise for members that donate. If anyone is interested please contact Vince Wells.
With no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 1:00p.m.
The next regular monthly business meeting of the Chamber will be Wednesday, August 5th, 2009 noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty.
Respectfully Submitted,
Kristie Kunkle, 2009 Secretary
Stuart Chamber of Commerce
President Cory Hansen called the meeting to order at noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty with 24 members in attendance.
Kristie Kunkle covered the motions from the previous meeting. Julie Shepherd made the motion to approve the May Minutes, Troy Donnelly 2nd, and the motion carried.
Troy Donnelly submitted the Treasurer’s report. Robert Smith made the motion to approve the report, Kristy Lonsdale 2nd, and the motion carried.
Cory Hansen welcomed Tony Calument with Coon Valley Radio. Tony discussed his plan to broadcast live from Good Egg Days. He also wants to start advertising for Good Egg Days right away.
SEED – Warren Varley discussed the possibility of a commercial daycare coming to Stuart. They are trying to gain support for the idea. There are currently 100 students that open enroll to other schools.
MIDWEST PARTNERSHIP – Ashley Feick reported updates on certain projects. SynGest is currently working on financing the $80-90 million project. They currently have $13 million. Ayars & Ayars has gotten a contract with Stuart Rail Park. Martin Mock, Stuart Entrepreneur, is working on a hunting excursion video. Also mentioned was the MWP Annual Golf Outing scheduled for July 9, 2009 at Lake Panorama.
Committee Updates
Beautification – Robert Smith made the motion to pay $943.00 to have the Gazebo landscaping redone by Schwinger Lawn Care, Jeff Schwartzkopf 2nd, and the motion carried.
Good Egg Days – Kristy Lonsdale discussed the cost of advertising. Julie Shepherd made the motion to pay $290 for advertising, Lisa Sherman 2nd, and the motion carried.
Wristbands will be sold at local businesses. The presale price is $20. The day of wristbands will be sold for $25 and 20 tickets for $15.
There will be a Good Egg Days meeting next Wednesday, June 10, 2009 noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty.
Membership – Julie Shepherd discussed prorating membership dues if they join mid-year.
Old Business
Kristy Lonsdale mentioned the cost for banner poles is $15 each. Robert Smith made the motion to get 12 poles for $180, Nate Westre 2nd, and the motion carried.
Everett Shepherd made the motion to spend $100 on a light for the Lawbaugh Park Sign, Troy Donnelly 2nd, and the motion carried.
New Business
Julie Shepherd discussed having the singing group SPAM perform at the Gazebo from 5:00pm to 8:00pm on June 24 while the Budweiser Clydesdales are in town. Lisa Sherman made the motion to pay $150 for SPAM, Robert Smith 2nd, and the motion carried.
Robert Smith discussed that the Library is moving locations and is looking for volunteers to help with the move. The moving dates are June 3 – June 6.
With no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 12:58p.m.
The next regular monthly business meeting of the Chamber will be Wednesday, July 1, 2009 noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty.
Respectfully Submitted,
Kristie Kunkle, 2009 Secretary
Stuart Chamber of Commerce
President Pat Sargent called the meeting to order at noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty with 16 members in attendance.
Kristie Kunkle covered the motions from the previous meeting. Julie Shepherd made the motion to approve the April Minutes, Troy Donnelly 2nd, and the motion carried.
Troy Donnelly submitted the Treasurer’s report. Cory Hansen made the motion to approve the report, Robert Smith 2nd, and the motion carried.
Audrey Wells reported from the White Pole Road that the Marathon Sale will be Saturday, June 6th at 8:00am. Anyone interested in advertising can contact Audrey Wells. The cost is $10.
Committee Updates
Beautification – The committee has planted some of the flowers. Four large trees were purchased with grant money. The cost was $98.72 over the $2000 grant money. Warren Varley made the motion to pay the $98.72, Jeff Schwartzkopf 2nd, and the motion carried.
Membership – Julie Shepherd mentioned that there will be a ribbon cutting at Wildcats Den on Wednesday, May 13. The time is to be determined.
TIF Update – Pat Sargent reported that we need supporters to attend the City Council Meeting which is Monday, May 11 at 6:30pm.
Old Business
Jeanette Woodson Memorial Rock - Audrey Wells made the motion to approve the cost of $100 for the granite rock, Warren Varley 2nd, and the motion carried.
New Business
President Election - Julie Shepherd made the motion to elect Cory Hansen as the new Chamber President, Robert Smith 2nd, and the motion carried.
Vice President Election - Pat Sargent made the motion to elect Robert Smith as the Vice President, Cory Hansen 2nd, and the motion carried.
With no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 12:58p.m.
The next regular monthly business meeting of the Chamber will be Wednesday, June 3, 2009 noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty.
Respectfully Submitted,
Kristie Kunkle, 2009 Secretary
Stuart Chamber of Commerce
President Pat Sargent called the meeting to order at noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty with 12 members in attendance.
Kristie Kunkle covered the motions from the previous meeting. Everett Shepherd made the motion to approve the March Minutes, Troy Donnelly 2nd, and the motion carried.
Troy Donnelly submitted the Treasurer’s report. Julie Shepherd made the motion to approve the report, Robert Smith 2nd, and the motion carried.
Audrey Wells reported that the White Pole Road Development Committee will be holding a Progressive Dinner on April 18th. There is a limit of 100 guests.
Pat Sargent spoke about SynGest coming to the area. SynGest will be the world’s first biomass-to-ammonia plant. The plant will bring 30 new jobs and is a 50 million dollar project.
Pat Sargent also discussed TIF. An application has been created and is being reviewed by an attorney. A committee is being developed and they will be responsible for reviewing applications and presenting them to the city council.
Committee Updates
Membership – Julie Shepherd mentioned that Casey’s General Store is the newest chamber member. There is one member that has not paid 2009 dues. Julie has contacted them.
Special Events – Andy Kaldenberg/Rose Acres will be taking care of the Easter Egg Hunt. Volunteers are needed and should be there at 11:30.
Website – There are three businesses that have not paid for advertising. They have till the next meeting to pay dues.
New Business
Jerry Vitzthum spoke about the Smart Economic Development Conference that is held May 7, 2009 at the Polk County Convention Complex. It starts at 7:30am and the cost is $50. You may contact Jerry Vitzthum for an application if interested.
Nate Westre asked the Chamber if there was interest in holding a second street dance in September.
President Pat Sargent informed the Chamber that he will be moving in May due to a job opportunity. There will be discussion at the next meeting on the vacancy of the Chamber’s President.
With no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 12:51p.m.
The next regular monthly business meeting of the Chamber will be Wednesday, May 6, 2009 noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty.
Respectfully Submitted,
Kristie Kunkle, 2009 Secretary
Stuart Chamber of Commerce .
President Pat Sargent called the meeting to order at noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty with 19 members in attendance.
Kristie Kunkle covered the motions from the previous meeting. Julie Shepherd made the motion to approve the February Minutes, Troy Donnelly 2nd, and the motion carried.
Troy Donnelly submitted the Treasurer’s report. Cory Hansen made the motion to approve the report, Audrey Wells 2nd, and the motion carried.
Audrey Wells reported that the White Pole Road Development Committee will be holding a Progressive Dinner on April 18th.
Committee Updates
Light the Park – Audrey Wells mentioned that $1100 in Christmas lights were purchased. There may be more funds depending on the Hotel/Motel tax grant.
Membership – Julie Shepherd called businesses that still owe dues.
Special Events – Andy Kaldenberg/Rose Acres will be taking care of the Easter Egg Hunt. Volunteers may be needed.
Website – Nate Westre mentioned that the Stuart Chamber of Commerce Website is in the running of winning a website makeover. If businesses want to advertise the cost is $60/year or $5/month. The billing cycle starts January 1st and ends December 31.
New Business
Audrey Wells and Pat Sargent will be attending the next City Council meeting to discuss TIF Funds.
Midwest Partnership Dues – Jerry Vitzthum made the motion to pay the amount of $500 to Midwest Partnership, Everett Shepherd 2nd, and the motion carried.
With no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 12:40p.m.
The next regular monthly business meeting of the Chamber will be Wednesday, April 1, 2009 noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty.
Respectfully submitted,
Kristie Kunkle, 2009 Secretary
Stuart Chamber of Commerce
President Pat Sargent called the meeting to order at noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty with 13 members in attendance.
Kristie Kunkle covered the motions from the previous meeting. Audrey Wells made the motion to approve the January Minutes/Annual Meeting Minutes, Julie Shepherd 2nd, and the motion carried.
Troy Donnelly submitted the Treasurer’s report. Warren Varley made the motion to approve the report, Audrey Wells 2nd, and the motion carried.
Audrey Wells reported that the White Pole Road Development Committee is looking for individuals who want to be involved. The committee is planning to hold a mini-seminar for businesses along the White Pole Road. The seminar would focus on tourism benefiting local businesses. Audrey also reported plans of turning Harry Kalbach’s building into a Welcome Center.
Committee Updates
Beautification – Sara Bliven is looking for help to take down Christmas decorations at the park this Saturday February 7 at 1:00pm. Any help is appreciated.
Good Egg Days – Sara Bliven discussed how the Mechanical Bull is available for the Street Dance for three hours. The cost would be $1250.00 plus insurance. There will be more discussion at the next Good Egg Days Meeting which will be held Wednesday, February 18, 2009 noon at Americinn.
Special Events – Julie Shepherd spoke for Chief Smith and asked if Light the Park could become its own committee. Julie Shepherd made the motion to create a new committee for Light the Park, Janet Lawson 2nd, and the motion carried. A chair person will be decided at the next meeting.
New Business
Pat Sargent brought to our attention that the Gazebo account is still open with an amount of $425.61. Warren Varley motioned for the Gazebo account to be closed and funds be moved to the Beautification Fund, Audrey Wells 2nd, and the motion carried.
With no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 12:57p.m.
The next regular monthly business meeting of the Chamber will be Wednesday, March 4, 2009 noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty.
Respectfully submitted,
Kristie Kunkle, 2009 Secretary
Stuart Chamber of Commerce
President Pat Sargent called the meeting to order at noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty with 16 members in attendance.
The Secretary and Treasurer’s reports were approved as submitted.
No reports from Midwest Partnership or White Pole Road Development.
SEED – Everett Shepherd reported that new officers were selected at the last meeting.
Committee Updates
Beautification - Sara Bliven had discussion on taking down Christmas decorations. There will need to be some repair on bows and the gingerbread house.
Good Egg Days - A deposit was paid for the inflatables. The rides will be available on Saturday from 11:00a.m. to 6:00p.m. There was discussion of new vendors coming to town. The next Good Egg Days meeting will be Wednesday, January 14 @ noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty.
Membership - The membership letters were mailed December 2, 2008. Julie Shepherd and Troy Donnelly said there are a few starting to come in. They will start making calls next month.
Special Events - The Annual Meeting will be held Thursday, January 15 at the 5X80 Country Club at 6:30p.m. RSVP to Loretta Sloss along with check by January 12.
Website - The website has a new look along with photos of Stuart. Was discussion on how the Website Committee should follow-up on the Advertising side. Also, the website still needs other updates such as ATM Locations and businesses that need to be removed.
Old Business
Ribbon Cutting Flowers - Julie Shepherd suggested that we approve a set budget for Christy O’Brien so that she can automatically send flowers to Ribbon Cuttings. A cost of $35.00 plus tax was discussed as a reasonable price. Sara Bliven made the motion to approve the cost, Lisa Sherman 2nd, and the motion carried.
WCV Athletes - Earlier the Chamber sent a letter concerning WCV Athletes and the behavior. The Chamber received two letters in response from Principal Debbie Wilson and Superintendent David Arnold.
Mid American Grant - Audrey Wells reported that the Chamber received $1000.00 grant from Mid American to purchase trees. There are also other funds that will be going towards this project.
New Business
Light and Park Decorations - There was discussion on buying storage tubs for the lights and decorations. Sara Bliven thought 15 tubs should be all that we need to purchase and the cost is $10 each. Everett Shepherd made the motion to approve the cost of $150 for storage tubs, Audrey Wells 2nd, and the motion carried.
Tax Increment Financing (TIF) - Audrey Wells presented information regarding TIF and its availability to local businesses. Pat Sargent will be scheduling a special meeting to discuss this topic. A TIF expert will be present at this meeting to inform the Chamber on how to receive and use such funds.
With no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 1:03p.m.
The next regular monthly business meeting of the Chamber will be Wednesday, February 4, 2009 noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty.
Thanks to Pat Sargent and Kum & Go for the Great Lunch!
Respectfully submitted,
Kristie Kunkle, 2009 Secretary
Stuart Chamber of Commerce
Vice President Julie Shepherd, in the absence of the President called the monthly Chamber meeting to order at 12:01 p.m. at EJS/Shepherd Realty with 13 members in attendance.
The Secretary and Treasurer’s reports were approved as submitted.
No reports from Midwest Partnership, Seed or White Pole Road.
2008 Christmas Committee reported, the November 22 Light the Park event was well attended. Kristy Lonsdale reported that the free photos with Santa will be available Thursday, December 04, 2008 at CCC.
Discussion of automatic timers needed for park lighting followed with a motion from Kristy Lonsdale to approve the purchase of timers, etc. for $184. Nate Westre 2nd, and the motion carried. Jeff Schwartzkopf will purchase them.
2009 Membership Committee Chairman Julie Shepherd proposed their budget recommendation of $250. Kristy Lonsdale made the motion to approve the budget, Cory Hansen 2nd, and the motion carried. Membership applications were sent out 12-02-08.
2009 Website Committee Chairman Nate Westre proposed their budget of $200. Gene Richardson made the motion to accept the budget of $200, Mary Crawford 2nd, and the motion carried. Reminder that sponsorship on the website is only $5 a month for chamber members!! Non-chamber members will be charged $25 a month. Another great reason to join the Chamber!!
2009 Good Egg Days Committee Chairman Cheryl Marks submitted a budget proposal of $8,000. Kristy Kunkle made the motion to accept the budget as submitted, Troy Donnelly 2nd, and the motion carried. The next Good Egg Day meeting will be Wednesday December 10 @12:15 p.m. at EJS/Shepherd Realty.
2009 Special Events Committee Chairman Chief Smith submitted a proposed budget of $750. Kristy Lonsdale made the motion to approve the budget as submitted, Janet Lawson 2nd and the motion carried. Loretta Sloss is handling the First Annual Meeting to be held on the 3rd Thursday in January. A special speaker will be there.
2009 Beautification/Downtown Revitalization Committee Chairman Sara Lee Bliven submitted a budget for $841.50. Cory Hansen made the motion to accept the proposed budget as submitted, Kristy Lonsdale 2nd and the motion carried. Multiple people will be watering the plants this year on a rotation schedule.
Old Business. Jeanette Woodson Memorial. Mike Johnson will be working on the different options available, whether a brass plaque, engraved stone, etc. Mike will give selection suggestions in the Spring.
New Business. Lisa Sherman will continue as the Chamber e-mail contact. stuartchamber50250@hotmail.com She requested that all Members, Committees, and Officers submit their news, and meeting reminders fully composed in an attachment form, with no editing needed.
Julie Shepherd reported she will continue as the Chamber Buck contact.
The installation and photo of the 2009 Chamber Members will be held at the Chamber Meeting First Annual in January.
With no other business, the meeting was adjourned at 12:35 p.m.
The next regular monthly business meeting of the Chamber will be Wednesday, January 7, 2008 noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty.
Lunch was served by Kum n Go. Thank you to Pat Sargent!!
Respectfully submitted,
Lisa Sherman, 2008 Secretary
Stuart Chamber of Commerce
President Sara Bliven called the meeting to order at noon at EJS/Shepherd Realty with 21 members in attendance.
The Secretary and Treasurer’s reports were approved as submitted.
Audrey Wells gave the Christmas Committee Report. Additional lights ordered for the park bathrooms will make it look like a gingerbread house. A motion to approve an additional $600 to this years Holiday budget was seconded and approved.
The Election of 2009 Officers held with the following results:
- President: Pat Sargent, Kum ‘N Go
- Vice President: Cory Hansen, Rolling Hills Bank
- Secretary: Kristie Kunkle, Rolling Hills Bank
- Officers continuing for 2009 are:
- Treasurer: Troy Donnelly, First State Bank
- Reporter: Audrey Wells, Town and Country Insurance
The 2009 Committee Sign up sheet was sent around for members to sign. The individual committee planning meetings, with date, place and time will be e-mailed soon.
Warren Varley addressed the Chambers Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws. Discussion followed. A motion to accept the changes as submitted. Motion was 2nd and carried. A motion to pay the $50 filing fee for the Articles of Incorporation. That motion was also approved.
Julie Shepherd reported for the memorial for Jeanette Woodson. Jefferson Monuments quoted a 4”x6” brass plaque for $360. Fisher Rock Company has engraved rocks, $85. We currently have $315 in memorial money received for the plaque in Jeanette Woodson honor. Discussion followed, plans tabled until Julie checks for comparables with Mike Johnson.
Audrey reported there is grant money available from the Hotel/Motel tax that we could apply to. Audrey will be asking for a grant of $15, 000 with matching funds for the purchase of awnings on chamber businesses.
The next meeting will be Wednesday, December 3, 2008.
Respectfully submitted,
Lisa Sherman, Secretary Stuart Chamber of Commerce
President Bliven called the meeting to order at 12:00 pm at EJS/Shepherd Realty with 8 members in attendance.
The Secretary and Treasurer’s reports were approved as submitted.
The Christmas Holiday Committee will have their first planning meeting on Wednesday, October 8 at noon at EJS. All are welcome to join the planning. Please bring ideas, and estimates for budget planning. A volunteer list was passed around asking for help to decorate the park on Saturday November 15 at 9:00 am. See Sara Bliven to add your name.
McDonalds donated some lighted displays to the chamber. Eric Tiernan is checking them over for repairs. Sara will check with Kim Cole about the Care Center's plans for Festival of Trees and Holiday Home tour.
Everett is in contact with the Ethanol plant manager for the chamber to host a burger and brat cookout. He has had interest from Menlo City and their chamber to assist. Sara shared some estimates for bicycle racks and trash receptacles. She will be getting more estimates.
Executive Board meeting for the chamber will be Tuesday, October 7 at noon.
Downtown Halloween night was discussed. Motion was approved to advertise in the Stuart Herald for $46, with a full color ad 2x4. 300-400 children are expected. Call Jerry Vitzthum with the candy of your choice to hand out. This information is just to avoid duplications. Cheryl Marks was unavailable during the chamber meeting to verify Halloween night. The next day Mayor Marks proclaimed that Halloween night would be Friday, October 31st Downtown 5-7 pm and City Wide Trick or Treating 5:30 to 7:30 pm.
Donations are still encouraged for Jeanette Woodson’s memorial. We have to date $165 for the purchase of a tree and a brass plaque IN DEDICATION TO JEANETTE WOODSON. Everett is checking into the plaque. Please send your donations to First State Bank, Attn: Troy Donnelly.
With no other business, the meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
Lisa Sherman, Secretary
The meeting was called to order by President Bliven at 12:00 pm at EJS/Shepherd Realty with nine members in attendance.
In the absence of the Secretary, Audrey Wells read the minutes of the August meeting, which were approved.
Nancy Tinnean, from Lakeside Senior Village at Lake Panorama, did a half-hour presentation about the facility for Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care that has been built at Lake Panorama (and she also brought dessert). It appears to be a great place to retire and is open to anyone over 55 years of age.
Troy Donnelly presented the treasurer’s report and said all the financial business from the circus isn’t completed, but it appears we made money on the circus. His report was approved.
Everett Shepherd reported that SEED is trying to find a time to hold a “Welcome” party for Hawkeye Renewables. Their plan is to grill burgers and brats for the owners and employees and hopefully arrange a tour. He asked if the Chamber wanted to help with that event, and a motion was made and carried to help with labor and expenses. It was suggested that the Menlo mayor and council be contacted to participate also.
Pat Sargent reported that the Teachers’ Breakfast went well. We received a thank-you from Dr. Arnold for providing that kick-off, and Pat sent thank-you’s to Burger King, McDonalds, Kum ‘n Go, Hometown Foods, Rose Acres, and Menlo Market for their donations and help. Pat also said he made a detailed report that can be used to plan the next breakfast by anyone who will be in charge.
Audrey Wells reported that the White Pole Road Development Organization is collaborating with Meredith Publishing Company (and an author/photographer whose name escapes her memory) to put together a book about the White Pole Road which will feature pictures from the area and memories as told by area senior citizens to local high school students.. Money made on the book will help get to the goal of buying the Menlo gas station and converting it to a Welcome Center with information and memorabilia of the WPR, as well as souvenirs. The book will be ready for sale by November and will make great Christmas gifts for employees, customers, family and friends. (Meredith Publishing also suggested it would make a good gift for IPTV subscribers for their next membership drive and may promote it that way.)
The Holiday Celebration was set for November 22, 2008. The author of the WPR book will try to be available for a book signing then. The Holiday Promotion Committee will begin working on that event.
The Membership Committee reported there will be a ribbon cutting event on Sept. 9th at The Evergreens at 5:30 PM, and at Rolling Hills Bank on Sept. 23rd at 3:00 PM.
If Hawkeye Renewables agrees to a welcome dinner, tour, and/or ribbon cutting, we’ll be notified by email.
Audrey reported that more pictures will be added to the website in the near future.
Since no information about cost of bike racks, & trash receptables was available, motions from the previous meeting were tabled again until the next meeting.
The Stuart Chamber Corporation Annual Meeting will be held at the November meeting.
Proposed changes to the by-laws will be sent to the members at least two weeks ahead of that, and the discussion and voting on those changes will take place at the November meeting.
There being no other business, the meeting was adjourned.
Audrey Wells
Secretary Pro-Tem
No minutes
The meeting was called to order by Sarah Blivin at 12:10pm at EJS/Shepherd Realty with 15 members in attendance.
Reports were given for the following Committees: Downtown/Christmas, Website and Membership.
New Business consisted of discussion of the Chamber’s Community Sign, welcome group for new residents and overnight stay in Stuart for those traveling to Sturgis in August.
SIMECA and CIPCO, who includes Stuart Municipal Utilities as a member very generously, donated to the Stuart Chamber a check totaling $184.40. The donation was given to improve our local development projects.
**It was moved and carried for the treasurer to contact the three current businesses that are directly affected by the corrective action concerning their membership dues. **
The next meeting of the Stuart Chamber of Commerce was changed to 12:00noon Wednesday, June 4th at EJS/Shepherd Realty.
Meeting adjourned.
Respectfully submitted by,
Lisa Sherman, secretary
Note: 1 motion carried, see above **
The meeting was called to order by Audrey Wells at 5:35 PM at the Country Kitchen restaurant with a total of four members in attendance.
There were no committee reports.
Andy Kaldenberg reported that the Easter Egg Hunt brought 150 kids to the park. Twelve prizes were given in each age group.
The next Good Egg Days meeting is Tuesday, Apr. 8th at EJS Commodities at noon.
Audrey presented a grant form from IMT Insurance Co., which is going to make 15 grants of $500 each to community projects in Iowa. Several projects were suggested to be submitted from Stuart.
The next regular Chamber meeting is scheduled for Wed., May 7th, at noon at EJS Commodities.
The meeting was adjourned.
President Blivin called the Stuart Chamber of Commerce meeting to order at noon on March 5th with 15 members present.
Everett Shepherd made the motion that because we (the Chamber) are a non-profit organization, we will no longer be financially contributing to other non-profit entities asking for donations. 2nd by Vince Wells, motion carried.
WCV High School Yearbook asked if the Chamber wants to place an ad for the next yearbook. Vince Wells made the motion to decline purchasing the ad, Everett Shepherd 2nd, motion passed.
Midwest Partnership had no report.
White Pole Rd will have their progressive supper Saturday, April 26th.
Special Events Committee next event is the Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 22nd at Lawbaugh Park. Volunteers are needed at 11:30 with event to begin at 1pm.
Chief Smith made the motion to set the spring planter budget at $150. Audrey Wells 2nd the motion. The motion carried.
Website Committee reported, Everett Shepherd made the motion to pay $300 a year to Nate Westre for upkeep of the website. Chief Smith 2nd the motion, motion carried. Everett made the motion to charge yearly fees for advertising on the website, $60 for members and $300 for non-members. 2nd by Chief, motion carried.
Membership Committee submitted a yearly budget of $250 . Audrey Wells made the motion to approve the budget, Kristy Lonsdale 2nd the motion, and the motion passed.
Good Egg Days Committee will hold their next meeting Tuesday, March 11th at EJS, noon.
Old business- discussion followed on the completion of our Chamber sign.
New Business- Community Care Center will have a dedication of the Hospice room today at 1:30. Sara read a thank you from the fundraiser organizers of Jeanette’s event.
Saturday, April 26th will be the fundraiser for Kenny Vanlandingham at the Fire Station 5pm.
Next Chamber meeting will be Wednesday, April 2nd at 5:30 pm at Country Kitchen
Audrey Wells made the motion to adjourn, Chief 2nd, and meeting was adjourned.
Important Dates
July 31 White Pole Road Tractor Ride
August 28 Street Dance
November 20 Light the Park
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