Laramie Chamber & LEDC Considering Combining Forces

The pending departures of leaders of two Laramie economic organizations has led to those organizations looking into possibly combining. The Laramie Area Chamber of Commerce (LACC) and the Laramie Economic Development Corporation (LEDC) are both saying farewell to their Chief Executive Officers in February and the Boards of both organizations have decided to explore their options.

"It just makes sense at this rather unique time, to explore the pros and cons of combining forces in these two great organizations that have so successfully pursued their independent yet harmonious missions," said LEDC Board of Directors Chair Megan Goetz in a joint release. "Both of our organizations are always striving to provide our investors/members maximum benefits while being good stewards of our financial resources. In today's economic climate and consistent with Laramie's business community, it makes sense to take a step back and assess our organizations' missions and resources as we both are positioned to pursue the hiring of our next leaders."

A committee has been created to study recent examples of economic development and chamber of commerce shared structures within other communities according to the release. They will also look at possibly hiring a professional advisor. The board consists of Executive Board officers and members from both LEDC and LACC.

"There has been a spirit of collaboration and mutual support between LACC and LEDC for many years," said Martin Axlund, Board Chair for LACC. "Regardless of the outcome of our investigations into whether or not it's advantageous to share resources, we expect that synergy to continue. At this stage, we have made no decisions, but are simply exploring our options."