The Altona and District Chamber of Commerce is ready to fully implement its strategic plan in 2017.

2016 was a transition year for the organization with new members on the executive board, a new manager and a new direction. It was a bumpy start for the organization and it took a good year for the executive to find its way.

"At the start of the year, there were a lot of challenges with the board and manager as everything was new for everyone," said Jared Barnabe, Chamber of Commerce president. "Unfortunately, that put some immediate stress on the manager and on the board, which resulted in the resignation of our manager in June. But, then there was a light at the end of the tunnel when we found Stephanie Harris, a local girl who had done a lot of work in politics in Winnipeg and had a lot of success there. We knew she would be a good fit."

The Chamber of Commerce has made a concerted effort to move away from running community events like Canada Day, and has instead refocused its time and resources on the needs of its members.

"I think the biggest thing we have done is listening to our members. Having Stephanie visiting with members, which she has done a lot of already," said Barnabe. "The second point of our strategic plan is to be doing things that our members specifically want us to do."

One of the big issues the chamber will pursue this year is employment in the town and area with a focus on finding and retaining skilled workers.

"We'll be looking at doing some career options with the high school, and with grades 7 and 8 students with the possibility of doing some business tours. That's some of the feedback Stephanie has received from the members."

Barnabe adds, the organization will continue to spearhead the Chamber Bucks program and other community promotions that focus attention on Altona's vibrant business community.