The Elko New Market Chamber of Commerce recently expressed to the City Council our concern about the lack of development in the community. While surrounding cities are increasing their tax base with new and expanding businesses, Elko New Market has remained stagnant for many years. We believe a community’s tax base is best managed with three healthy components: the creation of new businesses and jobs, expansion and maintenance of existing businesses, and new and maintained housing.
The Council chambers was packed with local business owners on Thursday, September 14. A frank discussed ensued about City fees, ordinance requirements and perceived difficulties business owners faced when locating or expanding in Elko New Market. The purpose of the discussion was to establish an understanding that our City needs to be more business and developer-friendly.
Council Member Joe Julius expressed support of Chamber efforts by stating that, like businesses, government too needs to deliver high customer service levels. He recommended a Council or City staff member regularly attend Chamber meetings to discuss items relating to City government and field concerns that businesses and/or developers are experiencing when attempting to locate or expand here. The Chamber committed to bringing forward concerns to City staff and Council members as they happen.
Would you like to address the Chamber board? Meetings are held at the Firehouse Grille the second Tuesday of every month. (The October meeting will be held Tuesday, October 17.) The public comment period is scheduled at 9 am.
