WASHINGTON CO. CHAMBER REASSURING BUSINESSES OF CONTINUED ROLE
The Washington County Chamber of Commerce is reminding businesses that it will continue operations as normal.
The Chamber is sending out letters to local businesses, signed by each chamber director, saying its success will not be affected by recent changes to its contract.
This follows the city of Brenham’s recent announcement that it would be taking over duties previously held by the Economic Development Foundation and Convention and Visitor Bureau (CVB). The city’s contract with the Chamber for convention and visitor services ends October 1st.
The Chamber emphasizes in the letter that it will continue to “promote a positive economic impact and quality of life while preserving the natural beauty and rich heritage of Washington County.” The letter also says funding is still strong, with about half of the operational budget paid for with membership fees, and the other from community events and projects.
Prior to cancellation of the contract, the city paid nearly $460,000 to the CVB from hotel occupancy tax revenue.
City Manager James Fisher says the city will keep current CVB staff, and that support for the Chamber will continue.