Chamber holds elections

ODESSA – Odessa Chamber of Commerce met December 14 to elect officers for 2022, hear year end reports and plan 2022 events. While those gathered enjoyed a soup and bread lunch, President Norman Ott opened the meeting.

By unanimous ballot, elections set Norman Ott, president, Ed Deife, vice-president, Paige Smith, secretary, Larissa Zeiler, treasurer, Matt Roberson, Phyllis Sebesta and Chuck Watkins, board members.

The hospitality tent at the Stumpjumpers Desert 100 weekend, set for March 31-April 3, 2022, is in the planning stages. Chamber is seeking one or two community members to co-chair this event. Additionally, anyone interested in helping with set-up or throughout the four-day event should contact Norman Ott.

The Chamber board suggested that Desert 100 profits be used to replace the light pole Christmas decorations, add additional lights and decorations to the Community Christmas Tree and add Christmas lighting to Old Town Hall. The suggestion met with member approval.

Mayor Bill Crossley attended to address Chamber concerns about the appearance of several downtown properties and the unacceptable condition of the Birch Street railroad crossing.

Further study and communication with property owners will be pursued. Chamber of Commerce goals are to make the business and shopping area inviting to residents and visitors.

Next Chamber meeting is set for January 11, 2022, in the Old Town Hall. A soup and bread lunch will be served. All Odessa business owners and residents are welcome.