Hewitt Chamber summarizes outreach, cites $113,000 returned to community since 2018

The Greater Hewitt Chamber of Commerce presented its 2023 outreach results and thanked the City Council for continued support during the council’s April 1 workshop. Alysa, speaking for the chamber, said the organization is “excited to get back into having a presence regularly at your meetings” and introduced Chamber President Shauna Brad and past president Michael Wyatt.

The chamber highlighted several metrics and programs. Alysa said the chamber estimated a publicity reach of about 2.6 million (noting an internal estimate closer to 2.8 million), and that the City of Hewitt contributes $11,500 annually toward community event promotion. She told the council that since 2018 the chamber has “given back almost $113,000” to community causes, including support for local school scholarships, the Hewitt Public Library, the police department and fire department.

Alysa described the chamber’s focus on small business development—about 80% of members have fewer than 30 employees—and on regional tourism and visitor outreach through printed materials and drop‑site distribution along the I‑35 corridor. The chamber also highlighted a new resident welcome bag program and a quarterly magazine and directory that promote new businesses and member advertising opportunities.

Council members thanked the chamber for its work and for local partnerships with city departments. The chamber invited questions and suggestions for future collaboration.

The presentation concluded with the chamber’s board roll and staff overview; the chamber said it has 31 members (30 voting, one honorary) and three full‑time staff. No formal council action was required on the presentation.