TRURO –  The Truro & Colchester Chamber of Commerce recently celebrated 127 years serving the business community at its annual general meeting held in Truro. A new slate of officers and directors was elected by the membership which will see Alex Stevenson of CIBC  step into the president’s seat.

Stevenson recognized the commitment to the organization of past-president Andrew Lake who served two consecutive terms.

“Over the past two years, his leadership, dedication, commitment and collaboration has raised the profile of the Chamber,” said Stevenson.  “ He has guided it to the successful completion of a number of key initiatives.”

He thanked Lake for his efforts to engage members and stakeholders and offering leadership in a strategic planning process,  “to help focus the chamber to maintain relevance and integrity through updated internal policies and strengthened board governance.”

“Going forward, my intention is to continue to build on the momentum we have created and continue to focus on the key initiatives that we have outlined in our 2017 Business Plan,” said newly elected president. “These initiatives include serving our membership, supporting tourism marketing efforts, advancing our economic development initiative, lobbying for transportation and infrastructure improvements, supporting youth retention, focusing on operational excellence, promoting investment and opportunities in information and communication technology and to work with all stakeholders to support a sustainable and prosperous business environment.

“We are also committed to establishing our Vision – where we see the Colchester business community as collaborative, connected and thriving.”

Other newly elected executives and directors are: Vice-President Dan Clarke, Stanfields; Treasurer Joanne McRae, MNP; Solicitor Heidi Walsh-Sampson, Patterson Law; and Directors Don Locke,  RBC; Dr. David Gray, Dean of Dalhousie Agricultural Campus; Karen Baillie,  Elegant Steps; Karen Gillespie, Nova Scotia Community College; Fran Grant, Remax/Fairlane Realty; Matt Robblee, Caldwell-Roach Insurance; Ron Smith,  Old Fletcher’s Farm Property Ltd., Masstown Market; Bob Brown E. Lynds Enterprises;  Nancy Johnstone, Lock and Stone Property Management; Peter Theisen P.T. Property Care; Connie Baird, Party Time Rentals and Sam Abushenaf, PuroClean Restorations.

Lake , Will-Kare Paving and Contracting, will remain on the board as past-president.

We are fortunate to have a board comprised of dedicated, progressive and engaged professionals who volunteer their time for the betterment of our business community,” said Stevenson.