John welcomed everyone and invited everyone to go

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January 14, 2015 – Annual Membership Meeting Penny Farcy Building Jim Marsh and John de Groen John de Groen, George Brown, Richard Brown, Jim Schmidt, Royce Wall, JR Crawford, Julie Hempton, Laura Griffith, Melissa Schafer Absent/Excused: Angela Gist Date/Time: Location: Presiding: Attending:

ADMINISTRATIVE ITEMS: Meeting was called to order at 8:30 am CALL MEETING TO ORDER:

John welcomed everyone and invited everyone to go around the room for quick introductions. He gave the formal announcement of the meeting according to our bylaws. Announced the proposed selection of new Board Positions – 6 total (returning Board Members Angela Gist, George Brown, Royce Wall and Rick Brown and new Board Members JR Crawford and Julie Hempton). Since none of the positions were opposed, the membership was able to vote through show of hands. Julie made the motion to approve the slate of board members, Laura seconded, vote was approved. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR’S REPORT: Jim acknowledged past and retiring Board Members and presented certificates to those that were there (Bill Brown). Those not there (Patti McClements, Linda Bianchi, Dean Haugen and Gib Dammann) will receive theirs at a future date. Jim spoke about the accomplishments made in 2014. The Chamber coordinated two new trade shows in 2014 (the Home Fair and the Health and Wellness Fair). A new Wedding and Events brochure was created. Made on Vashon products were highlighted on our website and other places. The Shop Vashon Passport was new and improved. In addition, a new Chamber website was designed. It is much nicer looking and more user-friendly. Vashon was promoted more in off-Island media. The Chamber continued to offer support of Island businesses and non-profits. There was steady membership growth in 2014. Jim went over Chamber finances. 2014 saw an increase in income by 11.5% over 2013. Our 2014 gross income was $174,085.59. Of this income, 55% comes from festival, 28% from membership dues, 9% from Heart of the Sound income and 8% from other sources. Our expenses were up in 2014 ($166,640.46 – still less than income). Reasons for increase were: Payroll was up 38%, 30% increase in Festival expenses (in part due to new Children’s activities), 9% more for advertising, 7% more for rent and utilities, 4% more for insurance costs and the rest due to smaller, miscellaneous costs. Jim talked about our membership growth over 2014. We currently have approximately 220 members. Of these members, the breakdown is as follows: 17% retail, 16% building/contractor services, 15% lodging, 13% professional services, 9% realtors, 9% health and beauty and 7% restaurants and food and the rest consists of smaller business categories. Jim explained the way the Chamber was working to build a better business community. Ribbon un-tying for new businesses, Business after hours, social media, web workshops, the Shop Vashon Passport, etc. were all part of these efforts. Additionally the Chamber worked to make sure the loitering issues were addressed and that merchants had the information they needed to trespass people from their properties. EVENTS: Jim and Sue discussed Shop Vashon Passport and events. Strawberry Festival was discussed. 2015 GOALS: The Chamber plans to improve upon the Shop Vashon Passport campaign. This may include extending the time period somewhat. Hopes to increase membership and promote Chamber members more. Create new revenue and marketing opportunities through the Chamber’s new website. Continue education surrounding communities about Vashon and promote tourism here. Revamp festival safety efforts. BOARD OFFICER ELECTION: John de Groen: President, Angela Gist: Vice President, George Brown: Treasurer, Richard Brown Secretary ADJOURN: The meeting was adjourned at 10.00 am.