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A History of the Taylor County Chamber of Commerce

Taylor County is a rural, agriculture based community of just under 9000 people.  Until 2007 there was no formal business organization to promote the business and community interests of the entire community.   There were existing chambers in all of the counties surrounding Taylor.  In addition, Taylor County had been a part of a joint industrial development authority, the Valley Partnership since its inception in the late 1990's.  So creation of a chamber of commerce was the natural next step to do.  Below is a chronological history of the chamber of commerce.
July 15, 2007 -- Work session held in Butler.
Aug. 14, 2007 -- Organizational Meeting Held. Started work on mission statement and bylaws. Patty James is initial Chair. Angela Ranow is initial Secretary.
Sept. 12, 2007 -- Received a presentation from the Talbot County Chamber of Commerce on its organization. Began work on 501(c)(6) status.
Oct. 10, 2007 -- Continued work on bylaws. Agreed to set up checking account.Set up a member recruitment event.
Nov. 14, 2007 -- Received a presentation from the Macon County Chamber of Commerce. Decided to start a website. Approved initial bylaws.
Dec. 12, 2007 -- Presented plaques to first two Platinum members: Flint Energies and Public Service Telephone. Made minor corrections to bylaws. Discussed potential Chamber activities.
Jan. 17, 2008 -- Name confirmed with Secretary of State. Received FEIN number from IRS. Named initial Treasurer Lenda Taunton. Selected a new logo for the Chamber. Created first program of work.
Feb. 13, 2008 -- First treasurer's report given. Reported on attendance at the recent Warner Robins Chamber of Commerce annual banquet.

January  2010--  First Executive Director Patty Bentley begins leadership role with Taylor County Chamber of Commerce.

May 16, 2011-- Second Executive Director Tom Queen begins leadership role with Taylor County Chamber of Commerce.

June 2011-- Immediate changes made to website to make it more visible on the world wide web.  Future plans are to totally redesign the website. 

August 15, 2011-- Executive Director resigns to pursue other opportunities.

September 19, 2011--Lesley McNary begins  working with Taylor County Chamber of Commerce as Executive Director/Office Administrator