The Montpelier Area Chamber of Commerce met on Friday May 9, 2014 at the Chamber Office. Present for the meeting were Jeanette Hull, Terry Buntain, Chris Lee, Kurt Roan, Kelli Gray, Dave Tilly, Kara Cuter, Jenny and visitor Roy Rozelle. The agenda and the financial reports were both approved. Mr. Kurt Roan spoke with ODOT. Montpelier is on schedule for 2016 to repair Main Street. He is mentioned that the village’s electric department is working to put in LED lights throughout the downtown area. The whole village trash pickup has kept the city employees busy and it has been successful so far.
Jeanette Hull said that there are a lot of positive things going on in WEDCO and within the community. She also brought attention to the fact that the community is in need of individuals in the skilled labor area. Within the next ten years, there are going to be a lot of individuals retiring and there will be a need to fill the positions held. While the community doesn’t want to discourage anyone from attending college, it should also be known that there are also positions available that do not require a four year degree. Many of these positions are within reputable companies locally, and offer a variety benefits to their employees. As we look at graduates each year, the community needs to promote the success of these individuals and understand that success can be as varied as the individuals.
Reverend Dave Tilly was present and discussed the success of the National Day of Prayer. He also said that he was excited that the ministerial association is working on presenting their shelter proposal for Storrer Park. He feels that this is much needed and an ambitious undertaking. He wanted to remind the community of the vacation Bible Schools coming up throughout the summer months as well as the other summer programs sponsored by the area churches.
Ms. Gloria Osborn was present, representing the Library. She wanted to remind the community of the upcoming painting class on the 15th. On May 24th a book signing is also scheduled at the library. The summer reading program will also be starting up and young readers are encouraged to participate. The theme for this year’s program is “Fizz, Boom, READ!” Children ages 5-7 and 8-12 are able to attend. This program will be held from July 14-18th, and participants are asked to register by July 11th. There are forms available at the library or they can also be found in the Program Guide. The fee for this program is $5.00. This year the participants will learn all about science and inventions.
Ms. Kara Custer said that The Old Thyme Holiday Gathering is looking for some new signage. She asked those present for some suggestions. Ms. Jeanette Hull suggested contacting Four County Career Center to find out if they have any current students or former students that they could suggest to take on this endeavor. She noted that Danielle Lee was a former Four County Career Center Student in the Graphics Art program and had done a wonderful job helping with the Bean Days Logo.
One question that was raised was in regards to Bean Days. Some individuals within the community do not know what a “glow” is in reference to the hot air balloons that will be present for the festivities. Ms. Jeanette Hull said that she would provide pictures for the newspapers, and would also post some photos on the Bean Days facebook page. If at any time, community members have questions about Bean Days, they are encouraged to check out the page as many questions could quickly be answered from postings. There is also a message button that will allow anyone to ask questions, and one of the committee members will get back to you in a timely manner.
Chris Lee wanted to mention that Art Space is no longer in the building uptown. Instead, Extended Hands Thrift Store has moved into that space from their previous location. At that point in time Mr. Rozelle introduced himself to the board. He had a couple of concerns about Pocket Park, which is located on Main St. right beside Bubb’s Barber Shop. Mr. Rozelle said he used to be an active member of the community and that he took pride in the work that he did within the village. He would like to see improvements made specifically to Pocket Park and proposed adding in some trees and other landscaping that would not need much upkeep but could add to what is already present. He volunteered to manage overseeing the maintenance as long as he was able to. The board listened openly to Mr. Rozelle, and said they would continue to discuss the matter. The next meeting will be held on June 13th at 8am at the Chamber Office 410 W. Main St. Montpelier.