Task Forces/ Advisory Groups

Public Budget Reviews
The chamber will have representatives who attend and keep chamber leadership informed about proposed budgets which are presented at various budget hearings. Budgets reviewed annually include: CowlitzCounty, Kelso and LongviewSchool Districts, CDID #1, Port of Longview, Cities of Kelso and Longview.

Ø       Maintain a presence at budget hearings for public entities.

Ø       Keep the chamber board of directors updated on the process and any recommendation needing attention.

Ø       Make and distribute a final report to the board of directors.

Ø       Make the report available to members of the chamber.

Budget and Finance
Chair: Jerri Henry, Futcher/Henry Group

Ø       Work with President/CEO to prepare and present the annual budget to the board of directors.

Ø       Conduct financial reviews on projects generating non-dues revenue for the chamber.

Ø       Recommend short and long-term investments.

Ø       Assure the chamber’s annual financial review is completed; make a report to the board upon completion.

Ø       Ensure that the chamber is providing appropriate resources to address its programs and that it is following good fiscal policy.

Annual Events & Activities

Community Christmas Lights
Staff Contact: Amy Johnson

Ø       Coordinate and help promote the Annual Tree Lighting at CivicCenterPark.

Ø       Determine ways in which funds can be obtained assist with this annual event to help kick off the Christmas holiday season.

Annual Golf Classic

Chair: Valerie Felt Robinson, Retired

Ø       Assist with the coordination of the event, which gives members and their guests a great day of golf followed by dinner and presentation of awards.

Annual Meeting

Ø       Recognition and introduction of officers for new fiscal year.

Business After Hours

Ø       Monthly Networking event hosted by Chamber Member businesses.

Standing Committees

Education Committee

Education Council Leader:

Chair: John Krause, Associated Vice Pres. For Career & Student Services, LowerColumbiaCollege

Ø       Develop, implement and support programs that promote relationships between business and education.

Ø       Coordinate the Workforce Education Awards, recognizing employer organizations and individuals that have been implemented good programs for continuing education, including technology, for their employees.

Ø       Coordinate the Crystal Apple Awards, recognizing excellence in education, specifically among teachers, administrators and support staff.

Ø       Coordinate the Chamber’s scholarship Program by setting criteria, selecting recipients and also determine ways to help fund the program.

Ø       Assist and help maintain and strengthen the Chamber’s relationship with area education boards.

Ambassador Committee

Ambassador Council Leader: Diane Craft, Koelsch Senior Communities 

Chair: Pam van den Driessche, Retired

Ø       Serve as hosts at all chamber functions.

Ø       Conduct member ribbon cuttings that are scheduled by the chamber.

Ø       Assist with member networking events.

Ø       Work closely with the Chamber’s Membership & Marketing Director and give assistance as needed.

Ø       Assist members in obtaining maximum value from their investment.

Legislative Committee

Legislative Council Leader: Chet Makinster, Longview Booming Co.

Interim Chair: Kay Green, Retired

Ø       Advocate for business at every level of government.

Ø       Promote policies and laws that will assist in the success of business.

Ø       Cooperatively conduct legislative, candidate and other forums for the membership and community.

Ø       Provide information to members on issues.

Ø       Ensure that the chamber is providing appropriate resources to address its programs.

Ø       Oversee good fiscal policy.

Economic Development Committee

Business Development Council Leader: Scott Laubisch, PeaceHealth/St. John Medical Center

Ø       Work to provide educational opportunities for the business community and enhance member value.

Ø       Generate revenue for ongoing chamber educational programs.

Ø       Survey/monitor the educational needs of the business community.

Transportation Committee

Transportation Council Leader:  John Leber, Swanson Bark & Wood Products, Inc.

Ø       Work closely with City, County and Washington Department of Transportation officials on improvements needed for streets, roads, and highways.

Ø       Keep Chamber members informed on all transportation issues.

Ø       Support enhancements of entryways into Kelso/Longview including appropriate signage, plantings, etc.

Ø       Invite guest speakers to discuss various transportation issues.

Ø       Provide input to local, regional and statewide committees/organizations that are responsible for recommending future transportation requirements.