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2008 Committee Descriptions

AUDIT / FINANCE
Chaired by Brian Hutzley; Meets the 2nd Wednesday of February, May, August, November @ 8am
The Committee shall review and critique the Chamber's financial statements and condition.  The Committee will oversee the annual audit.  The committee shall also recommend to the Executive Committee changes in financial and investment policies for the Chamber.

BUSINESS ACTION
Chaired by Huemac Garcia; Meets on the 4th Thursday @ 8am
The Committee shall manage the Chamber's economic growth, the Chamber's legislative priorities and goals. The Committee shall draft the Legislative Agenda for approval by the Board. The Committee shall meet to act upon issues and concerns that affect our members' abilities to be successful and create jobs for the citizens of the county. The Committee shall act as a "strike team" for projects as needed.

EDUCATION
Chaired by Peter Livshin; Meets on the 3rd Tuesday @ 8am
The Committee shall facilitate the advancement of the Chamber's goals in educating and preparing the future generation of citizens. The Committee shall recommend seminars, discussions, training courses and long-term projects that promote business stability and growth, as well as the quality of the work force. The Committee shall assist the Government Action Committee in areas of education policy and issues for our elected officials.

EXECUTIVE
Chaired by Russ Southard; Meets on the 2nd Thursday @ 8am
The Committee shall oversee the President & CEO, including hiring and discharge for cause, and shall fix the compensation, all of which shall be subject to the policies and practices of the Board of Directors. The Committee shall meet monthly prior to the Board meetings to act upon matters to be brought before the Directors. The Committee shall have emergency powers to act for the Board in all matters, remaining in compliance with Chamber policies.

MEMBER SERVICES
Chaired by Doug Gulotty; Meets on the 1st Tuesday @ 8am
The Committee shall review applicants for, and recommend to the full board, businesses for membership in the Chamber. The Committee shall plan and implement new member campaigns, renewal strategies and value-added services that enhance a member's investment. The Committee shall review and recommend to the Board any revisions and/or changes in the investment schedule, as well as other membership related issues.

NOMINATING/BY-LAWS
Chaired by Peter Livshin; Meets as needed
The Committee shall screen and recommend candidates for the annual selection of the Board of Directors and candidates for the posts of Chair, First Vice-Chair, Second Vice-Chair, Secretary and Treasurer.

PERSONNEL
Chaired by Rich Harlem; Meets as needed
The Committee shall review and update the Chamber Personnel Handbook. The Committee shall advise on the implementation of personnel policies and procedures. Additionally, the Committee shall act as an appeals board for personnel matters not resolved at the staff level.

SPECIAL PROJECTS
Chaired by Mark Grygiel; Meets on the 1st Wednesday @ 8am
The Committee shall review, plan and implement special fund raising and public relations activities of the Chamber such as the Annual Dinner, Golf Classic and Small Business Day at the Oneonta Tigers. The Committee shall recommend new special events for the Chamber.

TECHNOLOGY
Chaired by Leif VanCott; Meets on 1st Friday of Feb., May, Aug. and Nov.
The Committee reviews and updates the area’s technology needs as well as acts as facilitator for the Chamber’s input and positions regarding the long-term investments needed to make and keep our Region competitive.

TOURISM
Chaired by Carol Blazina; Meets on 1st Thursday of February, March, April, May, June, September, October and November.
The Committee shall advise the Board on issues of importance to our tourism members and give direction on programs that promote Otsego County and business opportunities. The Committee shall communicate on the importance of tourism, act as liaison to the industry, and promote understanding.

For more information about the Committees, or to become a Committee member please email Rob Robinson at rob@otsegocountychamber.com.