Fair, 22° F
February 4, 2012
08:54 AM MST
The Billings Chamber of Commerce/Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) Board of Directors and staff proudly announce the organization’s strategic priority issues for Fiscal Year 2011-2012. The new and in some cases continued priorities focus on the Chamber/CVB’s mission and vision to nurture a healthy business climate, community and overall quality of life for area residents. At the same time, the priorities focus on offering Chamber/CVB members venues for continued growth and success. Today’s membership is 1,160 businesses strong. Those businesses represent 44,000 employees in the area. The Chamber/CVB is the community’s voice for business advocacy, tourism recruitment, and membership success.
The 2011-2012 Strategic Priorities are:
Chamber/CVB President and CEO John Brewer says, “For more than 100 years, the Billings Chamber of Commerce has been the most influential business organization in the region.” Brewer adds, “Today, the Billings Chamber/Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) remains dedicated to promoting the business community, advocating for sound public policy, promoting Montana’s Trailhead as tourism and relocation destination, as well as serving members with outstanding educational programs, relationship building events and strong referral/advertising benefits.”
The 2011-2012 strategic issues were decided after meetings, surveys, and discussions between the Billings Chamber/CVB Board of Directors, members, staff and partners including Big Sky Economic Development, the City of Billings and Yellowstone County. The priorities are the newly adopted focuses of the organization for the next year and in some cases, beyond.
Specific Details:
Energy Development Hub
Southeastern Montana has seen a marked increase in energy resource development in recent years and Billings is in a position to become a national energy hub. Coal from the existing Cloud Peak Energy coal mines is being shipped in great quantity through Billings, with the bulk of it going to the west coast for shipment to China. The Bakken Formation brings a lateral drilling/fracking process to get more oil out of a previously developed oil field. Natural gas development, while slow to grow, is also being developed as a byproduct of coal. Colstrip units burn Montana coal and generate electricity that is consumed by many Montana companies and individuals as well as exported to other states. All of these industries rely on Billings’ vendors to supply a variety of products and services. The Chamber/CVB will work with local, state and federal partners, together with the membership, to develop strategies that will further position Billings as a destination of choice for energy companies, their suppliers and their employees. This priority will be accomplished in partnership with Big Sky Economic Development (BSED).
Bring it to Billings
The Billings Chamber/CVB will work to increase non-resident conventions and events in Billings by working with local representatives of services groups and organizations. Local representatives can open the door for the Chamber/CVB staff to “Bring it to Billings.” Recognizing travel as a vital segment of the Billings economy, we will continue to use a comprehensive local awareness campaign to book business and create an understanding of the value of travel to Billings. Individuals who assist in recruiting groups will be recognized and local clubs/groups will be assisted.
Trails (Swords Park)
Develop the Billings’ trail system for the economic and healthy community benefits that result from active transportation (to work and school and for leisure). The Board, staff and Trails Committee members will help communicate the quality of life and economic benefits of trails. Federal support through transportation and appropriations bills for trail expansion and maintenance will be sought. In 2011-2012, emphasis will be placed on Swords Park and the Yellowstone River Connector.
Community Gateway Development
Partnering with Big Sky Economic Development, the Chamber/CVB will aid in the development of needed infrastructure and business opportunities within the east end transition zone, west of MetraPark. The goal will be to develop a community entryway and active business district along Exposition Drive making this area a vibrant destination and visually attractive area. Other partners include the City, County and Downtown Billings Authority. The focus will be to develop a sense of arrival through perimeter enhancements including gateway signage. Connecting this area via trails from Swords Park to the Yellowstone River is also a key component.
The Bottom Line
We will continue looking for new ways to assist and support our members and communicate how the Chamber/CVB impacts their bottom line. Staff will focus on the promotion of members and the tangible values of membership. The Chamber/CVB is the gateway for doing business, successfully, in Billings. Benefits act as a catalyst for growth, advocacy and connection for local businesses.
