CALL TO ORDER:  Meeting was called to order at 7:40 a.m. by John Vanbruinessen (in Gerry's absence)

INTRODUCTIONS:  Donna Rushford, Owen Shortt, Sandie Puddephatt, John Vanbruinessen, Estelle Rose, Danielle Byers, Colin Pring, Ed Duncan, Jansen Taylor, Shawn Scott, Heather Irwin

ADDITIONS TO AGENDA:  letter and donation from Nick Zrymiak

TREASURER'S REPORT:  $9400 in general account.  Winchester - $1820, Chesterville - $400, Mountain - $500

OLD BUSINESS 

1)  Sandie P. read letter from Nick Zrymiak and acknowledged donation of $75.00

2)  Owen reported that those interested can now retrieve Chamber minutes from website

3)  Owen also reported that 12 old businesses have not yet paid for this year.  John V. suggested that perhaps an invoice be sent to current members and a registration kit to non members.  Owen commented that things should be left the way they are so as to keep info current and correct, keeps costs down, and less work.  The ward reps should be doing some of this work and contacting businesses.  It was agreed this system be given a try.

BUDGETS: 

The advertising committee got quotes for 1/4 page ads – Chesterville Record $175, Winchester Press $200 but before ads are taken out the committee needs to know what to advertise and how often.  Donna suggested an annual ad outlining benefits, current members.  Also publish meeting dates and times, but need a message - start with public awareness.  Every dollar spent locally is recycled 6 times - October being Small Business month, ads can be done around this time.  The idea of billboards was too costly.  Another idea was a newspaper billboard featuring the current members.  Another idea was a coupon booklet involving North Dundas businesses only and make it a fundraiser for local groups - win win idea.  Advertising committee to have more info on this for next meeting.

BR&E  MEETING (Business Retention and Expansion): was held by Council.  There was a presentation by Prescott/Russell as they were used as a pilot project.  There were definite positive results and our Council felt it would be a very useful tool for North Dundas, but felt it would be better if the Chamber was somehow involved.  Owen made a motion that the Chamber pledge it’s full support and pay half of the cost of the kit and work closely with Council.  Seconded by Ed Duncan - all in favor.

NEW BUSINESS:  

1)  Rotary Club of Chesterville requested a donation for a water fountain - this should be handled by the Chesterville chairperson

2)  South Mountain Library - scheduled for closure.  Chamber has been asked for a letter of support to keep the library open. 

Motion by Heather that Chamber should send a letter saying the library should remain open until a further review is done; seconded by Donna.  Also an ad could be put in paper stating Chamber's support.  It was agreed that both the letter and cost of ad be taken care of by Mountain chairperson.

REGISTRAR'S REPORT:  66 members - 12 are new members this year

NEXT MEETING:  Wednesday , April 21, 2004 at 7:30 p.m. - Mountain Fire Hall

ADJOURNMENT:  Meeting adjourned at 8:50 a.m.

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