The Humboldt and District Chamber of Commerce Annual General Meeting returns to a live format after a couple years of virtual gatherings. The 117th AGM will take a broad retrospective of the last year and prepare for a bright future in the business community. 

“The focus is a review and an opportunity for the members to come in and ask questions directly to their Board of Directors,” says Chamber Director Brent Fitzpatrick. “They can have a look over the financial statements. It’s part of our accountability process which we really embrace.”

Fitzpatrick says that the Board has recently begun the process of evolving its strategic plan. Taking direction from the plan, the members have an opportunity to plot out future pathways for what appears to be a growing business community. 

The business community, like the rest of society, is emerging from the pandemic period looking to regain its footing. In reflecting on the impact of the past two years, Fitzpatrick has praise for the local business network.

“I think, by and large, our business communities have reacted well to it, they’ve done what they had to do to ensure their business survives, and to be honest, I haven’t heard of one business that’s closed down in our area that they attributed to COVID.”

Fitzpatrick acknowledges that there have been struggles, particularly in the hospitality and service sectors, but most local owners have weathered the storm. Now there’s a sense of optimism starting to percolate with the prospect of upcoming developments. 

“When we’re looking at the Jansen Project and what that’s going to bring, it’s going to be unprecedented opportunities for our region, and we’re asking people and members ‘do you want to come on board and be part of that guidance team for our Chamber of Commerce moving forward.”

Fitzpatrick knows that with the opportunity will come challenges, and he’s confident that the Board and members are the individuals to provide the necessary solutions. The annual AGM for the Humboldt and District Chamber of Commerce goes on Tuesday, April 5, 12:00 noon at the Canalta Hotel. For more details or to register, call the Chamber office at 306-682-4990.