COLUMBUS — During the Columbus Chamber of Commerce Annual Membership Meeting on Jan. 25 in Columbus, keynote speakers engaged the attendees with the State of the Chamber, The State of the City and the State of the County.
Prior to the beginning of the addresses, attendees were treated to a meal and refreshments courtesy of Chef Raoul of Columbus.
Opening the event was Columbus Chamber Executive Director Becky Nutt. Nutt introduced the chamber staff and recognized the board members. Board President Peggy Harrison gave a presentation on the events 2023 that helped shape Columbus as a destination station with fun activities that attract visitors from far and wide.
She also pointed out that the Magnolia Home Tour may be back on the table. Harrison pointed out that the membership at the chamber has grown from 132 members to over 400.
The State of the City was delivered by Columbus Mayor Lori An Gobert, who kept it “light” while discussing the light situation at Highway 71 (Fannin) and Walnut in Columbus.
More serious discussions revolved around the wastewater treatment plant and other 2023 projects and grants. She touched on volunteers and emphasized how the fire department is all volunteers and how they risk life, limb, and family time when the siren goes off.
The State of the County was given by Colorado County Judge Ty Prause. His message was clear that the county, and thus the city, is in a growth spurt, and his concern is trying to keep the rural feeling and still be progressive.
He noted that the county has grown significantly over the last few years.
Prause also honored civil service and community volunteers and their tireless dedication to having a better Columbus.
Lastly, he honed in on the river and its water availability. Associations above Lake Travis want to control the water flow downstream.
Colorado County’s association wants the rights to the water just as much as they do for obvious reasons. However, the other association has deeper pockets than the one Colorado County belongs to.
