The Superior Express -

The 2024 Annual meeting for the Mankato Chamber of Commerce took place Wednesday, Jan. 17, at the Buffalo Roam Steakhouse. Ten members and two guests were present. President Jason Ortman called the meeting to order. Haley Nelson gave a recap on all the things that the chamber took part in and accomplished in 2023. The 2023 annual meeting minutes were presented to the members present and they were accepted as presented.  Heather Thompson gave the treasurer’s report.

Board members’ terms that ended in 2023 were James Berry and Paul Wilson. They will both serve another 3-year term. Wilson will also serve as the treasurer. Other board members include Jason Ortman, president, Brian Shulda, vice- president,Haley Nelson-secretary, Trevor Elkins and Phyllis Christie. They will have a budget meeting on Jan. 31 at noon at Bob’s. 

Anthony Roy, the new city administrator, was a guest at the meeting. He talked about his focus as he starts the job and his previous work in economic development.

Reid Petty, a representative from Senator Moran’s office, was also present as a guest at the meeting. He talked about pressing issues like border control, the election that will take place at the end of the year, the special committees the senator serves on and the casework that his office can help Kansans with. 

The Community Birthday Calendars are being sold at State Exchange Bank, Central National Bank, Farmway Credit Union and Mankato Plumbing for $5.

The membership drive has started. Forms to past members may be collected until March 1. The membership form has also been posted on the website, sent out in city bills and posted on the chamber’s Facebook page. Forms will be mailed to members who haven’t completed their 2024 forms at the beginning of February. 

A ribbon cutting will take place at 2 p.m., on Monday, Feb. 5, for L&S Hometown Spirits. 

There will be a development opportunity profile meeting from noon to1p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 30, at the sale barn. Sarah LaRosh will be presenting a report that has been done on the businesses in Jewell County and what stages different businesses are in and how to grow them. 

The next meeting will take place Wednesday, Feb. 14, at the Senior Center.