QUILCENE — The North Hood Canal Chamber of Commerce is interested in cooperation and collaboration, but when it comes to joining a proposed countywide chamber of commerce, it will pass.
The membership of the chamber representing Brinnon, Quilcene and Gardiner voted Wednesday against joining with Port Townsend, Tri-Area and Port Ludlow chambers.
Representatives of those three chambers are discussing uniting in 2010 for a trial period operating as a single, countywide chamber.
But for now, that won’t include all of the county.
“What I see here is a collaboration that can happen,” said Joy Baisch, vice chairwoman of the North Hood Canal Chamber board.
“It’s good to work together, to share ideas and help each other, but I don’t see us wanting to combine under one chamber.
“We don’t want to lose our identity.”
Area unique
That identity, Baisch said, is one of unique culinary, history and natural resources that benefit all of the county.
“We have the shellfish industry, unique wineries and an extensive county history,” she said.
“In addition, we have a wealth of resources on the waterfront and as the entrance to the Olympic National Park.
“The quality of goods and services we have in this region is second to none and we want to work together to promote and share that, but we don’t want to combine and end up losing that identity.”
The chamber also operates visitor centers in both Brinnon and Quilcene along U.S. Highway 101 at one of the four major entrances to East Jefferson County.
Looking west
Mike McFadden, chairman of the North Hood Canal Chamber, said he also would like to see his group reach out to the west side of Jefferson County.
“I like the idea of a collaborative effort,” McFadden said.
“But that goes all over, including the West End and working with the local tribes, not just here on this side of things.
“I think a collaboration, where we work on promoting the county together, is the answer.”
Port Townsend Chamber of Commerce Ryan Anderson said he understood the decision.
“I can completely understand and appreciate that position,” Anderson said. “And yes, we will continue to work with them.
“And at a future date, if they decide they do want to join, then we are willing to welcome them.
“We want to continue working with them for the greater benefit of Jefferson County.”
Jennifer MacGillonie, Port Townsend Chamber of Commerce executive director, said the work continues to merge the Port Townsend, Tri-Area and Port Ludlow chambers under one board.
“We will be working on this for the next four months,” MacGillonie said.
“We’re in this for one common goal, to have strong business community and strong chambers throughout Jefferson County.”
At two public meetings in August, members of the Chamber Connection Committee outlined some of the goals for the combined chamber.
At the meetings, the group said that voting would be equal among all participants.
Port Townsend chamber luncheon meetings would remain scheduled every Monday at the Elks Lodge, 555 Otto St., off state Highway 20, about three miles south of Port Townsend.
Tri-Area and Port Ludlow chambers would alternate meeting places.
What happens with Port Townsend Lodging Tax Advisory Committee funds generated by a 3 percent tax on lodging is still being decided.
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Reporter Erik Hidle can be reached at 360-385-2335 or at erik.hidle@peninsuladailynews.com.