Lake City Committees

Business Committee

Creating powerful cooperative programs is essential for generating enthusiasm, increasing impact, and growing and retaining a strong retail and service environment. This group develops ideas and executes promotions to achieve the aforementioned result. Additionally, it serves as a round-table to discuss shared challenges and seek retail-oriented educational opportunities. Meetings are held on the third Monday of every month, 1pm at the Galley Restaurant.

Tourism Bureau

In an effort to put Lake City "on the map", the City established a lodging tax. The Tourism Bureau oversees the distribution of these funds for advertising, promotion, and encouraging increased tourist traffic. The Bureau consists of three lodgers and two Chamber members at large. The Executive Director serves the Bureau as Secretary/Treasurer. The annual budget for this committee is approximately $30,000/year. (3% tax on overnight stays collected by lodgers--the City keeps 5% of the total collected. The Chamber maintains fiduciary responsibility for the remaining 95%, allowing 5% for administrative costs.)

Workplace Task Force

Manufacturers, industrial firms and other large employers are confronted with unique challenges in non-metro communities. A unified approach to assessing needs, establishing strategies and facilitating growth is particularly beneficial to Lake City. Working together, the membership can facilitate positive change and encourage a growth-friendly climate. This group will also serve as the manufacturer/large-employer round-table. Meeting times to be determined.

Government/Public Affairs Committee

In addition to representing broad-based commercial and industrial interests at local city council, planning commission and special meetings, the Chamber empowers the business community and individual businesses alike by providing pertinent information and educational opportunities regarding local government issues. The Chamber also provides a viable link to the county, state and federal legislatures directly and/or through its partnerships. As a Chamber member, you become part of a unified voice for business, you strengthen the impact of your opinion and provide a strong visible presence in government. Meetings are held quarterly.

Technologies/Utilities Taskforce

Communication technologies are moving at an extraordinary pace and increasing utility expenses are dictating business growth and development. The chamber membership understands the implications and significant impact these areas have on our trade environment. We advocate for improved technological abilities and cost-effective utilities for our business community. Meetings and informational sessions are held as needed.

Board of Directors and Executive Committee

Elected by the membership, the Board of Directors serves as the Chamber’s governing body. The current board and their titles are listed under "About Us." Each year’s Board assumes office at the Annual Meeting in January and meets monthly thereafter from February through the following January. Questions, concerns, ideas and suggestions are welcome. Please help us improve the organization and meet our goals by communicating regularly with your representatives. Board meetings are scheduled for the first Monday of each month, exceptions may be made with prior notification. The Executive Committee includes the four elected officers and the Executive Director. This committee serves to give direction on employee issues, new strategies in organizational policy and issues management.

Committee Member(s):  Carol Hoops, Jeff Brand

Finance Committee

This committee ensures all finances are in order, proposed projects meet financial abilities and appropriate budgets are followed. Additionally, this committee provides recommendations to the Board of Directors to establish policy and procedure regarding finances.

Membership Committee

As our membership grows, so do the expectations of our organization. This committee works to ensure our members receive the best return on their investment. Meetings are scheduled quarterly and as needed.

Water Ski Days Committee

Organizing Lake City’s largest festival, this committee is responsible for coordinating entertainment, the carnival, and food and beverage vendors, developing a cohesive and entertaining parade line-up and securing funding for the parade. They also ensure that proper insurance coverage has been acquired, and that utility and sanitation needs are met. This committee will develop promotion and advertising strategies. It partners with other organizations/service providers to create a unique and cohesive Arts & Crafts Fair. The Chamber works with the City of Lake City, as well as the Coast Guard, MNDot, and Goodhue and Wabasha County, to secure necessary permits. Additional agencies include local and county law enforcement to maintain a safe environment for the festival. WATER SKI DAYS IS HELD ANNUALLY ON THE LAST FULL WEEKEND IN JUNE.

Johnny Appleseed Days Committee

This group of volunteers secures Arts & Crafts and Market participants, coordinates and facilitates the apple pie bake and social, develops advertising, enlists volunteers and prepares the pancake breakfast and ensures ample children’s events. Additionally, this group encourages city-wide activities. JOHNNY APPLESEED DAYS IS HELD ANNUALLY ON THE FIRST FULL WEEKEND IN OCTOBER.

Committee Member(s):  Angie Haviland

Thursday Night Street Market Committee

Designed to promote and encourage community fellowship, this group is responsible for securing entertainment and vendors for Thursday Night gatherings from mid-July through the end of August. Held at the marina bathing beach parking lot at Ohuta Park, the Chamber works with the City of Lake City and the Lake City Marina to provide a fun and safe atmosphere. STREET MARKET RUNS FROM MID-JULY THROUGH THE END OF AUGUST.