Crystal Everest is the president of the La Ronge and District Chamber of Commerce. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

Seeking direction

Chamber releases survey to refocus its objectives and mandate

Nov 7, 2019 | 11:20 AM

Changes could be coming to the La Ronge and District Chamber of Commerce as the organization looks to refocus its objectives and mandate to serve its members and the community better.

The chamber recently released an online survey asking respondents to answer six question that will assist the executive in focusing its activities and initiatives. Over the last number of years, President Crystal Everest stated a number of organizations have left the chamber and the survey is an easy way to find feedback.

“The surveys are quick and easy, they’re not intrusive, they’re anonymous,” she said, adding the chamber has also revamped its website and is reaching out more to residents online. “Social media is an easy way to tackle some of the people who maybe don’t know the organization is active or exists.”

While most of the questions in the survey ask for basic information like whether or not you’re a member or what chamber events you’ve attended. One includes if the organization should focus on the creation of a community economic development officer position or develop a strategic plan for the downtown business core. Other options include if the chamber should be encouraging community members to shop, utilize and engage local businesses through various initiatives, or provide a means for the business community to network and connect.

Everest explained if an economic development officer is hired, it would be done through some kind of partnership with the tri-communities and they wouldn’t be directly employed by the chamber. She noted there could be other possibilities to hire one through the provincial government or through grants, adding the Lac La Ronge Indian Band already has an officer and perhaps an arrangement can be made with them to share the role.

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“There are a couple of communities who have joint ventures associated with that,” Everest said. “I think for the chamber, it’s more looking into how and who can actually pull this off.”

As for the downtown core, she mentioned there’s a need to revitalize “the most visible, beautiful spot in La Ronge.”

With a local economy driven by tourism, Everest said the core should consist more of retail stores and restaurants with less offices or social service businesses, which take up key visible real estate in the area.

The chamber is also planning on releasing a quarterly newsletter to ensure its members and residents are up to date on upcoming events. It will include information on how to grow a business, local business profiles and a directory with local contact information.

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derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno