Political stand discussed at Florence Chamber of Commerce
A spirited discussion about the organization taking an official position on a political matter was the main topic of discussion for Florence Chamber of Commerce at the Jan. 5 meeting.
A month earlier eight members had approved a motion for the chamber to go on record against the bond issue for new school facilities that will be on the ballot in April for Florence citizens. The decision was based on a voice vote of members in attendance. Total membership of Florence Chamber of Commerce is 33.
Cindy Holt asked that members revoke the decision and she presented a petition signed by 11 members who felt the chamber should not make an official stand on a political issue.
Holt also asked that a different process be put in place for voting on such issues in the future. While Holt was present at the December meeting, she had returned to work at the end of the allotted meeting hour unaware the issue would come up.
"I think if a vote is going to be taken on issues like this, it should be on the agenda," said Holt. "I think it's important and if I had known about it, I'd have made arrangements to stay longer."
She also asked the chamber to use another method of voting besides the voice vote when the topic is particularly controversial.
"I'd prefer we use a show of hands or secret ballot," she said. "It would be easier for the secretary to get an official count which I think we should have on major issues."
Twilah Williams, who had seconded the December motion for the chamber to stand against the bond issue, said she stood by the action. "I think our taxes are too high," she said. "This is a chance for them to go down, but they won't if the district passes it."
President Joel Hayes agreed and added, "Everyone has the right to make a motion. It could have gone the other way if anyone had made a motion for it to."
Judy Mills urged the organization not to get involved in political issues. "I think it is the chamber's job to promote Florence businesses," she said. "It is not the chamber's job to make a political statement.
"Members should be knowledgeable and informed and vote their conscience," she added. "We shouldn't be telling people how to vote or taking a stand on something like this."
Lee Leiker, superintendent of district 408 and a Florence chamber member, was present and addressed the group.
"I am not trying to convince anyone to vote for anything," said Leiker. "My position is that people in both towns should be informed.
"I feel like the school is a business and that is why I am a member of this organization."
Leiker went on to point out how much the district spent on bus repairs at Williams' Service in the past fiscal year.
He also noted he is aware some people are sensitive about not having the Florence name used more often. He pointed out a number of things such as the sports calendars where Florence has been recently added. He said he welcomed comments and suggestions from Florence patrons.
Sarah Cope is a member of the school board as well as the chamber. She told the group she has received no phone calls from Florence residents about the bond issue.
She also reminded them Leiker is the first superintendent to come to Florence events and belong to Florence organizations.
No motion was made to rescind the motion passed in December. As discussion wound down, president Hayes declared the topic closed.
In other business Trayce Warner announced there still is a vacancy for chairman of the 2006 Labor Day celebration. She urged anyone interested to contact her as soon as possible.
Cope reminded members of the community meeting on Jan. 11 giving residents a chance to learn about a new housing project slated to begin in Florence in late spring.
Members discussed alternative meeting times in hopes of attracting more members. Many felt the noon luncheon meeting limited the number of issues that could be discussed. No decision was reached.
Sara Neal suggested some ideas for enhancing the "Welcome to Florence" sign on U.S.-77, but no decision was made.
The chamber will meet again at noon Feb. 2 at Carriage Manor.
