Optimism, changing perspectives, and collaboration were a few key themes highlighted during the Meeker Chamber of Commerce’s first annual “Business Rally” last week. Community members gathered for what Chamber Director Stephanie Hanson described as “a new kind of event.” The theme reflected by organizers and speakers focused on changing limiting mindsets, fostering a supportive business community, celebrating local contributions, encouraging collaboration and planning for sustainable growth and responsible tourism in the future. “Maybe we get a few ideas of how to partner with each other. Maybe an idea of how to start something new in your business, or just support all these things that lead us to being ready for the future, even as we face some uncertainty,” said Hanson.
She kicked off presentations at the rally by reviewing the last year of business activity and Chamber initiatives. Highlights included 18 new Meeker businesses registered, a record number ($70K) of Chamber Bucks sold, representing $70K total funds that will be spent within the community, the chamber’s graduation from the state’s Main Street program which Hanson said provides grant funding and resources for downtown revitalization. Chamber marketing efforts to attract tourism to the area will hone in on visitors within a set target audience who care about responsible recreation that is beneficial to the town and sustainable for the environment and outdoor resources. Hanson also noted the upcoming installation of a banner across Market Street at the intersection with Seventh Street. The banner will direct traffic downtown and promote events taking place throughout the year. On the subject of events, she noted that Ride the Rockies will make a stop in Meeker this June. “2000 bikers will be here, and it’s really a fabulous opportunity to showcase who we are,” she said, adding how effective planning for the event will provide an opportunity for collaboration. “We’re going to include our businesses and organizations to really help us plan and showcase Meeker during that event.”
COUNTY
Rio Blanco County Commissioner Doug Overton emphasized the county’s initiatives for the economic future including the continued development/expansion of broadband for economic and remote work opportunities, protecting access to federal lands particularly against restrictive regulations that could hamper natural resource extraction, and the upcoming construction and related economic benefits of the NextEra Solar project.
TOWN OF MEEKER
Meeker Town Administrator Mandy Etheridge shared information about the town’s financial health investments in infrastructure, and future projects aimed at boosting tourism and addressing housing. She noted plans for continued diversification of the region’s economy. Some projects included the Chamber Offices and Business Center remodel, enhancements to Meeker Golf Association and trails, and the Circle Park riverfront restoration. Etheridge also highlighted the transition to LED lighting to potentially qualify for the Dark Sky initiative, and commencement of a housing assessment to identify and tackle affordable housing challenges.
Other speakers at the event were:
– Grand Junction Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Director Tracy Baker discussed resources available to businesses in the region and SBDC’s role as a source for free and confidential consulting, training and resource connections.
– Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA) representative Margie Joy discussed affordable housing initiatives through CHFA including investments in Rio Blanco County through grants, sponsorships and technical assistance. She also discussed CHFA’s community development programs and down payment assistance programs.
– Pioneers Medical Center (PMC) board member J.H. Sheridan discussed the growth of the hospital as the largest employer in Rio Blanco County, citing statistics and metrics from 2023. He also talked about how PMC supports and plans to continue expanding job creation and growth of existing business sectors through medical tourism.
– Director of the Craig Chamber of Commerce Jennifer Halloway discussed the impact of oil and gas industry closures on the local economy and identity of Craig, and the Craig Chamber’s efforts to diversify the economy and create new community assets through initiatives like asset mapping and outdoor recreation planning.
– President of the Meeker Chamber of Commerce board and owner of Backcountry Outpost Joshua Harrison discussed opportunities to grow small businesses in Meeker by thinking big and taking advantage of the numerous outdoor activities and tourism opportunities throughout the entire year. He also provided tips on collaborating with other businesses and utilizing resources like chamber benefits and sales representatives.
The keynote speaker, author and “Small Town Aficionado” Heidi Kerr-Schlaefer, highlighted the unique assets of various Colorado towns and encouraged residents of Meeker to recognize their own tangible and intangible assets, including those things that they as longtime residents may take for granted due to familiarity. She emphasized the economic and community benefits of collaboration between local businesses to create positive community events, describing how working together can foster community pride and change perceptions both for residents and visitors. She also encouraged residents of Meeker to appreciate and promote their town with love and support like they would a favorite sports team. “It starts with you. It starts with your realization that your town is extraordinary,” she said.
