Oakhurst Area Chamber of Commerce to reorganize
The Oakhurst Area Chamber of Commerce is in the beginning stages of an organizational restructure that will eliminate full-time staff.
A statement signed by chamber president Betty Linn and 14 board members said the decision had not been made lightly. In the past, the chamber relied on a staff of three: an executive director, administrative assistant and bookkeeper. Unfortunately, this model has become unsustainable over the past several years, the statement said.
“Throughout many strategic planning sessions and board meetings, the difficult decision to restructure became the most viable option,” it said. “Sustaining a healthy and financially sound business model over the long-term is the ultimate goal.”
In place of current staff, duties will be carried out by a part-time chamber administrator, the chamber board of directors, and volunteers.
“We value the hard work and dedication that Executive Director Joelle Leder and Administrative Assistant Michaela Edwards have provided our chamber,” Linn said. “We move forward with this reorganization in an effort to create the healthiest chamber possible and regret that jobs are being lost in the process. The focus of the board of directors is the responsible allocation of member dues and contributions.”
The Oakhurst Area Chamber of Commerce was founded in 1959 and serves about 300 members.
For more mountain news, visit Sierra News Online.
