The Superior Express -

The Mankato Chamber of Commerce March monthly meeting was last Wednesday, at the Buffalo Roam Steakhouse. Eleven members were present. President Jason Ortman called the meeting to order. Heather Thompson gave the treasurer’s report which was approved. 

Haley Nelson gave an update on the membership drive for 2024. So far there are 58 members, one trade and one new business with a ribbon cutting bringing the dues total to $3,460.00. There was a discussion about having a separate category for the dues that nonprofits, like the churches, should pay. Ortman will check with other chambers to see what they do for their nonprofit members. Jen Urbaniak gave an update on the website. She had a few questions on the out-of- date members’ listings she is trying to update and fix. She also reported all the business members’ listings are updated. The individuals who pay membership dues will also be listed this year. 

Anthony Roy was present to discuss an agreement between the chamber and the City of Mankato for the use of buildings and rooms. It was agreed that if the chamber is using a room or building and not making a profit, chamber could use it in exchange for their membership dues. If the chamber is using a city building or room to make a profit, then the chamber will pay the rent but a deposit wouldn’t be required. Roy is going to make up an agreement for the city and chamber to sign.

This month is March Match Month. Any money donated to the Jewell County Community Foundation in March will be matched 400 percent by Dane G. Hansen Foundation. The chamber budgeted $500 to go towards the match month. Heather Thompson is going to make out the check and Trevor Elkins will pick it up. There will be a Community Coffee Friday morning at 9 a.m. at the sale barn for those who would like to learn more about Match Month and a free will donation Tower Shoot on Saturday, March 23. Elkins also shared that the foundation’s spring grant cycle is now open. Applications are due by Wednesday, May 1. 

Community garden plots are now available for rent. The plots are a 10’x20’ plot and cost $20 to rent for the season. Contact Brian Shulda to rent a plot. 

The chamber discussed the community wide clean-up. Anthony Roy agreed the chamber could join with the city employees for the event again this year. They will coordinate dates and try to plan the event for April or early May. 

Jewell County Community Development Association is hosting an event called “Sippin’ and Supposin’” today (Thursday), at 6 p.m. at Possibilities for anyone ages 21-39. 

There will be a bake sale at 9 a.m., Friday, March 29 at V.F.W. Proceeds from the bake sale will go to those in Jewell County who are fighting cancer and need help with traveling expenses to appointments. If you’re interested in donating a baked item, contact Jen Urbaniak or Kristin Underwood. 

Teresa Kelly from Pawnee Mental Health said she is looking for jobs for the individuals in her program.   

The next meeting will take place at noon Wednesday, April 10, at Bob’s.