Lompoc City Council Reviews Longboat Valley Chamber Contract for Economic Growth Focus

The Lompoc City Council convened on July 15, 2025, to discuss the future of its partnership with the Longboat Valley Chamber of Commerce, a topic that has sparked significant debate among council members regarding the effectiveness and financial viability of the current contract.

At the heart of the discussion was a proposed annual funding of $108,000 for the Chamber, which some council members believe is insufficient for the scope of work expected. Councilman Bridal raised concerns about the Chamber's ability to fulfill its contractual obligations, noting discrepancies in the number of events planned versus those actually scheduled. He emphasized the need for a thorough analysis of the Chamber's performance under the existing contract, suggesting that the city should not fund an agreement that cannot be adequately executed.

Bridal proposed a motion to direct city staff to renegotiate the contract with the Chamber, aiming to ensure that it aligns with the available funding and focuses on measurable economic growth. He highlighted the importance of including key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the Chamber's effectiveness in promoting local businesses and economic development.

Council members expressed varying opinions on the contract's terms, with some advocating for a more business-like approach to ensure accountability and compliance. The discussion also touched on the need for transparency, with calls for a financial audit of the Chamber's operations before any further funding is approved. Council members noted that the Chamber has not provided required financial documents for the past two years, raising questions about its fiscal management.

The council ultimately agreed on the necessity of revisiting the contract to better define the Chamber's responsibilities and ensure that taxpayer money is being used effectively. The meeting concluded with a consensus to work collaboratively with the Chamber to refine the agreement, aiming for a contract that not only meets the city's expectations but also supports the local business community in a sustainable manner.

As the council moves forward, the focus will be on creating a partnership that fosters economic growth while ensuring accountability and transparency in the use of public funds. The next steps will involve further discussions with the Chamber to align their goals with the city's economic development objectives.