Chamber discusses political action committee

The formation of the Lodging Tax Election Committee was referred to the Executive Committee and Hot Springs Travel and Tourism Liaison Barb Heinze, during the Thermopolis-Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce annual board meeting April 14.

Chamber Vice Chair Greg Wilson said there would be a push to put the vote to renew the lodging tax on the ballot, and suggested board members be on the committee to get word out on what the tax does for the community.

Hot Springs Travel and Tourism Board Director Amanda Moeller explained the board has to set up a Political Action Committee (PAC). She noted board members can educate the community, but they cannot lobby.

The Lodging Tax, collected from lodging establishments, helps fund special events in the community, and it was suggested to get folks involved with such events in on the PAC as well.

It was further noted during the meeting that some might be resentful of the large number of people coming to town, and others comment about how there's nothing to do. The lodging tax, provides dollars to pay for events. It's not just about lodging, either; people who come to town also spend money at restaurants and other businesses.

Philip Scheel appreciated the information about the tax, and cautioned treading lightly in the formation of the PAC. He was concerned about the Chamber being the only entity forming the PAC and sticking its neck out, and is of the opinion to form the PAC from individuals involved with other events.

Scheel and Wilson have since stepped up to head the PAC, independent of the Chamber.

Also during the meeting, Wilson declared the Chamber Banquet a success.

The Chamber continues to grow, Wilson said, noting that growth and value are the two goals they are working toward. Looking ahead, he said, there would be determination as to what goals will also be a focus in the coming year.

Chamber Executive Director Meri Ann Rush said the banquet brought in $4,180, though the hope was to make $6,500. However, she pointed out last year's banquet had 12 centerpieces that were auctioned off, where this year had only four. Overall, 200 people attended, Rush said, but there will be some work to acquire more auction items for next year.

Rush expressed appreciation to those who helped set up, tear down and run the banquet, as well as those who attended.

Another activity reported on was the Chamber vacation giveaway, the winner of which was Shurie Scheel. Phillip Scheel said the prize was used to take the family to Nashville.

Volunteers were requested for a Pageant Days Parade Committee. The Chamber puts on the parade at 10 a.m. Aug. 6, and while it doesn't take much it does require some planning. There are several events happening the same weekend - Aug. 6 and 7 - including the Gift of the Waters Pageant, Big Horn Basin Folk Festival and an open house at the fire department.

Several board members voiced they wanted to be on the committee, and the first meeting was scheduled for 5:30 p.m. May 2 at the Chamber. Rush also encouraged board members to ask the organizations and businesses they represent to create floats for the parade.

Moeller, speaking for the Economic Development Committee, noted two committee goals: to establish metrics to track what they are doing more efficiently, and host a young entrepreneur event in the fall. Moeller noted there are several young entrepreneurs in the community, and such events can help them connect with those that can help launch, or grow, their businesses.

A work session was scheduled for 6 p.m. Tuesday, May 3 in the Hot Springs County Memorial Hospital Board Room. The meeting will provide time for the Chamber Board to go over its goals and budget. Moeller, speaking to Travel and Tourism, noted the budgeting process has begun as well.

"Summer's coming," Moeller said, "and it's about to get busy."