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Kimberley Chamber of Commerce update

The Chamber has discussed re-arranging the structure for JulyFest.
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The Kimberley and District Chamber of Commerce has announced a few changes in their most recent update to City Council.

Chamber Manager Mike Guarnery says some updates include the implementation of business coupons as opposed to direct donations, and plans for Julyfest.

To date, there are 521 business licences in Kimberley, and 125 Chamber members. Guarnery says that number has stayed fairly consistent, and there hasn’t been any major growth or decline in Chamber memberships in the past few years. He adds that the cost for a membership with the Chamber is $175 plus GST.

In 2018, 65 days were spent on investment attraction, with seven different opportunities posted to Imagine Kootenay. The Chamber also hosted and attended 29 different business enrichment events, with over 440 participants.

RELATED: Kimberley Bulletin, a year in review

Some key events that the Chamber hosts include the Business Social and Showcase, the AGM, Canada Day, Julyfest, the Business Expo, Golf Tournament, Business Excellence Awards, Platzl Light-Up and the Chamber Holiday Party.

Something the Chamber is helping out with is the implementation of coupons for local businesses as opposed to direct donations.

“Local businesses are constantly asked for donations when it comes to fundraisers and other events,” said Guarnery. “We’re working on implementing a system where businesses can give out coupons to help with those costs.”

In terms of Julyfest, Guarnery says Chamber members devote many volunteer hours to the annual event, which is taxing on their time.

“If the board didn’t volunteer, who would? Julyfest takes a lot of their time. We’re looking at ways to alleviate some of that work off of the Chamber,” Guarnery said.

He adds that there are many ideas, including the possibility of selling the festival to another group, however it wouldn’t be to “just anyone”.

“It’s a long process and right now we’re focusing on ways to offload some of that time and energy,” he explained. “We’ll look at re-arranging the structure and bringing on more volunteers.”



corey.bullock@kimberleybulletin.com

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Corey Bullock

About the Author: Corey Bullock

Corey Bullock is a multimedia journalist and writer who grew up in Burlington, Ontario.
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