Message from Chairman

Thank you for your membership in the Destin Area Chamber of Commerce. To say that I am excited about my role as 2012 Chairman would be a huge understatement. I am filled with great hope and anticipation about the potential for our Chamber and its membership for the coming year.

During a November 2011 retreat, your Board of Directors agreed to pursue a path of community development through economic diversity. The first step in this process is to develop a strategic plan for our area, and the perfect vehicle for that is to become a Florida Chamber Foundation Six Pillar Community. The six pillars are comprised of Talent Supply and Education; Innovation and Economic Development; Infrastructure and Growth Management; Business Climate and Competitiveness; Civic and Governance Systems; and Quality of Life and Quality of Places. Not only will these pillars give us measurable goals, our plan will be integrated into the State’s strategic business plan, allowing us to take advantage of economic development opportunities not previously available to our area. You will hear more about the Six Pillars and the partnerships we are forming to achieve this goal in coming months.

Our state and federal legislators are working on important legislation, and your Chamber will ensure the voice of the Destin business community is heard. Recently, this Chamber issued a resolution against the expansion of gambling in Florida, specifically against “destination casinos.” We will continue to watch this issue and keep you informed.

This Chamber enjoys its close relationship with city and county officials, neighboring chambers, civic and governmental organizations, state and federal legislators, and the Okaloosa County Tourist Development Council. In 2012, we are committed to a close partnership with our Economic Development Council, providing the support it needs to broaden its targets both from an industry perspective and geographic location.

This year, we will work to improve our communications with you, so you are aware of all the opportunities the Chamber offers to you and to the success of your business. We will also continue to communicate the message ‘Destin is open for business and healthier than ever’ to our visitors via our website and outreach to regional media. In 2011, the Chamber communicated this message and our world-class vision to the almost 500,000 visiting our website and Welcome Center.

Please visit the Membership Benefits section of this website to see the many ways in which this Chamber is working for you. Also, check out the Events Calendar, and join us for a Leaders In Business Lunch, Business After Hours, or one of our many special events.

I look forward to working with you to build this world-class community one business at a time.

Sincerely,
Bill Lindsley
Simple HR
2012 Destin Area Chamber Chairman of the Board