109th Annual Meeting

14 minutes ago2 min read

Springfield Vermont – January 31, 2025 –

Springfield Regional Chamber of Commerce held its 109th annual members meeting at Crown Point Country Club in Springfield Vermont. Executive Director Taylor Drinker opened the annual meeting and introduced Mike Schmitt, the Chambers 2025 President. Mr. Schmitt did a roll call of the Board of Directors for 2025 and conducted the review and acceptance of last year's minutes. Mr. Schmitt also conducted the review and acceptance of the Chamber’s new bylaws, which contained primarily updates regarding technology and communication. Sue Dana the Chamber Treasurer had the members ratify last year’s financials noting that we spent significantly more on events in 2024 and spoke about plans for a more conservative events budget in 2025.

As the incoming president for 2025, Mike Schmitt talked about the Chamber’s goals for the year and encouraged members and the community to engage with us, use our services, volunteer, and attend events.

Taylor Drinker gave the Executive Director’s Report, event highlights from 2024 included the Vermont Apple Festival & Craft Show with increased attendance, the Hackers Golf Tournament, and the Governor's Lunch. The Chamber also focused on community engagement with events like the Summer Street Fest/0K Doughnut Dash and Green Up Day. Internally, the Chamber underwent an office remodel, updated bylaws, and implemented a new dues structure with tiered membership levels. The Chamber continued to serve on a number of boards and committees, advocating for the business community.

The guest speaker was Senator Alison Clarkson who spoke about economic development in southern Vermont as well as the legislators' plans for tackling the cost of living and housing crisis.

Before closing the meeting, the Chamber announced the annual winners of its community recognition awards for 2024:

Citizen of the Year: Jessica Martin presented by Aimee Parnell

Extensive community contributions including work with community events, the downtown, and athletics.

Organization of the Year: Black River Innovation Campus presented by Bob Flint

Work on digital literacy and business development, as well as work with schools and youth.

Business of the Year: Sarrazin Architecture presented by Mike Schmitt

Remodeled major building (Odd Fellows) in Downtown Springfield

Thank you to the following organizations for donating to the awards gift baskets!

Aubuchon/Bibens

Black River Coffee Bar

Black Rock Steakhouse

Great Northern Liquidation