COLUMBUS — The Columbus Chamber of Commerce conducted its annual members' meeting on Jan. 30 at the Stafford Opera House Grand Hall in Columbus—over 140 individuals assembled in the recently renovated upper level, accessible via the new elevator.
Columbus Chamber Executive Director Becky Nutt delivered an overview of the chamber activities and also served as the master of ceremonies. Nutt informed the audience of chamber members that there are currently 447 active members and 65 new members for 2024. The chamber facilitated 18 ribbon-cutting ceremonies, welcomed over 6,000 attendees to the Magnolia Days Festival, guided more than 175 guests on historic bus tours, and celebrated over 1,600 visitors to the Santa Claus Museum.
Columbus Mayor Lori An Gobert presented the State of the City address, during which she highlighted various projects at Mid-Town Park and outlined scheduled work within the city. Additionally, she provided insights on the ongoing interstate construction affecting the town. Notably, she addressed the potential for an Emergency Services District (ESD) and its capacity to alleviate financial challenges for the city amid rising equipment costs.
Colorado County Judge Ty Prause delivered the State of the County address. He concentrated on the Mental Health Deputy initiative and its positive impact since its inception, attributing its success to the Behavioral Health Task Force and the Wellness Council of the Greater Colorado Valley. He expressed gratitude to Dr. Mazzie and Brent Leftwich for their pivotal roles in advancing this initiative. Prause also discussed various projects throughout the county, stating that the county operates with a $15 million budget, with eight months of financial reserves.
He reiterated the importance of establishing an ESD to create a more efficient and streamlined approach to governance.
Dewberry Cafe, alongside its owner, Mattie Sprague, was honored with the Business of the Year award. Morgan Barten received the Volunteer of the Year award, while Lori An Gobert was recognized as the Citizen of the Year.
The catering for the event was provided by John John’s 2 Go of Columbus.
As the chamber looks forward to 2025, it remainstedment to delivering value to its members while fostering economic growth. For further information, visit www.columbustexas.org or contact assist@columbustexas. org or 979-732-8385.
Columbus Chamber of Commerce President Peggie Harrison, center, congratulates Columbus Mayor Lori An Gobert, left, for being awarded the Citizen of the Year and Mattie Sprague, owner of Dewberry Cafe, for being awarded the Business of the Year at the chambers annual membership meeting on Jan. 30 at the Stafford Opera House in Columbus.
