From 7/08 Sea Breeze….Chamber news…
Monthly statistics…
…………………………………June 08…………………..YTD……………………..June 07
Walk-ins……………………..1,093……………………..11,108…………………881
Visitor Guides……………….333……………………….3,196…………………468
See ya there ad
v/g mailed……………………..58………………………….455
Diving Inq………………………61………………………….425………………….65
Relocation Inq…………………17………………………….184………………….26
Car rental Inq…………………162………………………..1,809……………….185
Total Traffic…………………1,731……………………….17,119…………….1,707
Website hits…………………7,143……………………….54,013…………….7,656
Membership Renewed………….5…………………………….199
New Memberships………………5………………………………25……………………6
Pre-paid 2007/08………………13…………………………….13…………………..16…06/07
Businesses closed………………..0………………………………6…………………….4
Total Membership………………………………………………..198
A response to Vice Mayor McIntee…for his “borrowed idea”….on the dais in June………to move the Chamber from its longtime location…see previous scoops….for the history…..the “idea”…….
full text in the Sea Breeze…excerpt….below…..
‘However a matter of great importance and concern has surfaced. For the past 6 months we listened to rumors that the Chamber of Commerce/Welcome Center would soon go the way of the “dinosaur.”And now we hear a Town Commissioner would like to move our entire operation to a “store front” somewhere on Commercial Blvd. Reason being that the walk-in business we generate would also help generate business in that area of town where needed.’
‘ In theory this might just make sense. However, there are many things that could be very detrimental to such a move. First of all parking would definitely have to be free and there would have to be designated parking for at least 15 spots. Adjacent store owners would not be too happy about that arrangement.’
‘Secondly, the location would have to be very visible for the patrons and tourists seeking to use the services of the Chamber of Commerce/Welcome Center. Traffic moves swiftly east and west on Commercial and this would make it difficult to locate us in that environment. We would need very visible signage which isn’t always easy to do in a store front.’
‘ Thirdly, our present location has become a traditional landmark for returning tourists and locals alike. Its present location affords easy access in and out and its visible from both A1A and Bougainvilla Drive. I think the number of “walk-ins” we service every year clearly shows how great our current location is.’
‘ Our operation consists of the Chamber of Commerce and a “Walk In Center.” A Chamber of Commerce could run out of an office almost anywhere but the “Walk In Center” requires a choice location. As they say in the Real Estate business- “Location, Location and Location.” We already have it- we don’t need to move! Having a Chamber and Walk In Center under the same roof creates a lot of synergies and efficiency in everyday operation.’
‘Remember hoteliers, business people and locals that the Chamber and Walk In Center are the only organizations that do what we do- advertising, special events and just plain helping the citizens that walk through our doors. We play a major role in supporting this town.’
‘Respectfully yours, Paul Novak, on behalf of the Officers, Directors, Members, Staff and Volunteers’
BCbythesea….
1. Again….see Scoop- Chamber post….for the history…the location and building were meant for the Chamber….Welcome Center
2. This should be made a” Designated Historical Site”…through the County…. it served the location for the first Commission/police/Town Clerk/Womens Club….
3. Maybe a Referendum…. is needed…….to go on in March…along side the other “tradition of LBTS”…the VFD?
4. The real reason for some of the “relocation” discussion….”payback”….from those who have a grudge for their past associations with the Chamber ….for who is on the Chamber Board…. for who might have “benefited” from the Chamber….in the past…which might not have been “on the books”….HEARSAY…..
5. The Chamber might have to do some “streamlining” of its own….cut its operational costs…look at what is working…and what is not…..showing “good faith”…..
6. The Chamber may need to “assume” some of the maintenance/ utility costs going forward to offset the cost to the town….again….showing “good faith”……..
7. Most in this town see a “Parallel” between their “love” for the Chamber and the VFD…..so to try and move it…will present the same “consequences” for those elected officials….as for those who were unseated after they threw out the VFD….in the last election…..NO DOUBT!…..
more to come…….
Tags: Local Politics
