Tri-State Chambers of Commerce Join Forces to Support Airport
Chamber Presidents Present $90,000 Check to Airport Director Larry Salyers
In an effort to support the Tri-State Airport in Huntington and other transportation issues, area Chambers of Commerce have joined together to form a coalition to provide a financial contribution and leadership to the Airport Authority Board.
The Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce, Greater Lawrence County (Ohio) Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Ashland Alliance have formed the Tri-State Chamber Coalition to highlight issues which impact the Tri-State region, including local air transportation.
The Chambers in the Coalition have committed a $90,000 contribution over a three-year period to the Tri-State Airport Authority to help support airport initiatives and attract improved air service.
“We are excited about the Tri-State Chamber Coalition and look forward to improving the business climate in our area,” said Huntington Chamber President and CEO Mark Bugher. “This partnership will provide a valuable opportunity for business leaders throughout the Tri-State to communicate and work together to improve the business community.”
Ashland Alliance President Jim Purgerson agreed on the importance of the joint support for the local airport. "The Tri-State Airport is truly our regional airport, and it is so important to the region's economic development efforts.” Purgerson said. “We're very proud to be part of the Tri-State Chamber Coalition and this commitment to financially support the airport in their efforts to improve air service.”
Another key initiative of the Coalition includes bringing together local legislative leaders from West Virginia, Ohio, and Kentucky to address issues, which affect businesses and citizens in all three states of the region.
As a result of ongoing cooperation, the Tri-State Chambers have also designed a reciprocal membership program to aid small businesses throughout the area, offering the opportunity to become a member of all Chambers within the coalition at a discounted rate.
As a current member of a Tri-State Chamber, a small business (those designated as having five or fewer employees) will be able to join any one additional Chamber for an annual additional cost of $100 per year, or two additional Chambers for an annual additional cost of $150 per year. These amounts are in addition to the basic Chamber dues the member pays to its local Chamber. This can amount to a savings of up to $500 annually or more compared to belonging to the three Chambers individually. The reciprocal membership will be available effective Jan. 1, 2006.
The group will also focus on networking among all three Chambers through joint meetings of various committees including Young Professionals groups, Executive Committees and Board of Directors.
For more information on The Tri-State Chamber Coalition, contact the Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce at (304) 525-5131.
