Creston’s voice of business

Jim Jacobsen, executive director for the Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce, sees the chamber as a strong voice for business.

Jim Jacobsen is the executive director of the Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce. — Photo courtesy Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce

Jim Jacobsen is the executive director for the Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce. He joined the chamber a year ago after being on the board of directors for two years. Jacobsen has lived in Creston for more than 20 years, having moved here after graduating from the University of Victoria.

"I saw the need for a strong voice for business in the community," said Jacobsen. "I was impressed with the core functions of a chamber of commerce—such as strengthening the local economy and providing leadership, promoting the community and being a first point of contact with persons interested in our community."

He listed advocacy, networking and communications as other important functions of the chamber.

Top priorities for 2012

Jacobsen said working with the Town of Creston and the Regional District to create a brand and visual identity for the Creston Valley is an important initiative for this year, as is starting the development of the area south of the chamber building in partnership with numerous local groups. This will create a destination hub in the downtown core complete with walking paths, interpretive areas and market areas.

"This will become a true gathering place for the community," said Jacobsen. "Other priorities include working with areas B and C and the Food Action Coalition on marketing and developing our agritourism opportunities and hosting a top-notch trade show."

This year's show, the largest Creston has hosted, runs for two days from April 20.

Jacobsen said an overall goal for the chamber will be working with the membership to strengthen the business community—coming up with shop-local initiatives, networking events and workshops. Business referrals and operating a quality visitor centre are other chamber responsibilities. Jacobsen added that the chamber is working on a partnership with the Kootenay Lake Chamber of Commerce to promote the region as a whole.

Jacobsen said the past president, Murray Oswald—who is the general manager of Columbia Brewery—has been an invaluable asset over the past few years. He helped develop the strategic plan that included purchasing the building where the chamber and visitor centre are located.

Rob Schepers, owner of the Home Hardware Building Centre, is the current president.

"Rob is very excited about the potential impact the chamber can have on our local economy," said Jacobsen. "His knowledge and passion for retail is a key advantage for the chamber moving forward."

Jacobsen added that the chamber is very pleased with the response that its electronic sign has received. 

"It has quickly proven to be a valuable advertising tool for community events," said Jacobsen.

Board of directors for the Creston Valley Chamber of Commerce

• Rob Schepers, president
• Murray Oswald, past president
• Allanna Garrett
• Art Tremblay
• John Huscroft
• Bob Vance
• Marilin Grahn
• Ralph Vigna
• Rick Minichiello
• Shannon Veitch
• Kit Santano