Chamber of Commerce gets a jump-start

The Fredonia Chamber of Commerce exists, but it hasn’t been much of a presence in the village in recent years, if ever.

That may be changing with a heightened interest due to an improving economy and economic development efforts.

“The Chamber has been null and void in recent years and nothing is going on with it,” said Annie Stadler, manager of the Port Washington State Bank branch in Fredonia and chamber president the last two years.

“It has been very stagnant, but we’re hoping to get it revitalized.”

Efforts to get the Chamber of Commerce going have been sporadic and unsuccessful through the years. What’s different this time is the increased activity of the village Economic Development Committee, which is trying to increase community participation on a number of fronts, developing a marketing plan for the village and working to attract business and residential development to the village.

“I think having the Economic Development Committee will help,” said Stadler, who attended last week’s committee meeting. “I feel that’s a good connection for the Chamber to piggyback on what they’re doing and work with them.”

Village President Don Dohrwardt said Stadler’s presence at the Economic Development Committee meeting was a welcome sign.

“I feel optimistic about where we’re going,” Dohrwardt said.

Village Trustee T.J. Meyers-Jansky, who chairs the Economic Development Committee, agreed.

“An active Chamber is like a good book with many chapters and information,” she said in an email. “The Chamber helps businesses connect with their community.

“As a viable Chamber grows, it has more of a story to tell through programs, events and networking opportunities. The Chamber provides businesses visibility to tell their story and build relationships amongst peers.”

Stadler said the Chamber currently has 12 members but hasn’t collected any dues since last June.

It also has a board of directors, “but we just haven’t met in a while. We don’t have an active board or active members,” she said.

Stadler said she plans on sending out letters to local businesses and individuals in coming weeks to “reconnect” and increase membership and involvement.

“Having a Chamber of Commerce helps the community and businesses be connected to each other,” Stadler said.

For more information on the Fredonia Chamber of Commerce, call Stadler at 692- 2444.