Council renews Chamber partnership contract with $45,000 subsidy and $3,000 small‑business assistance

The La Verne City Council on May 20 approved a one‑year partnership agreement with the La Verne Chamber of Commerce that continues a $45,000 annual subsidy and includes a $3,000 allocation to help first‑year new La Verne businesses join the chamber.

Community and economic development staff recommended approval of the partnership agreement for the 12‑month period beginning July 1, 2024. Leah Skinner, representing the chamber, summarized outreach and program accomplishments: Taste of La Ver, Restaurant Week, teacher awards, business recognition programs, networking events, community cleanups and a scholarship program that awarded three scholarships totaling $1,500 this year.

Skinner said the chamber also supported new business onboarding, hosted career‑focused events with the Bonita Unified School District, and coordinated volunteer efforts such as "Love La Ver Day." Councilmembers praised the chamber’s event work and community partnerships; the council approved the agreement by unanimous vote.

Next steps: The chamber will continue programs as outlined in the agreement and receive quarterly subsidy payments; staff will track the new business assistance program and report back as required by the partnership agreement.