New Indio Chamber of Commerce seeks to rebuild business network, raises about $30,000 so far

A presenter representing the new Indio Chamber of Commerce told the City Council the group has formed a nonprofit chamber intended to reconnect and reinvigorate local businesses, with an early focus on membership drives, workforce development and inclusive governance.

The presenter, identified in the meeting as Mr. Shalhoub, said the new organization began after local business leaders discovered the previous chamber had fallen into state suspension and unpaid delinquencies. The group said it settled delinquencies, reviewed bylaws and re‑chartered a new chamber as a 501(c)(3) at their own expense.

"We want to create a dynamic, inclusive, future‑focused Chamber of Commerce that champions local businesses," the presenter told the council, noting the city has roughly 3,000 business licenses. He described plans to refresh the chamber brand, launch tiered membership benefits and form workforce partnerships with College of the Desert and Cal State San Bernardino’s entrepreneurship center.

The presenter said the fledgling chamber has about a dozen members and had "touched" $30,000 in initial funds from founders. Councilmember Ben Gutron asked for the numbers; the presenter answered that the chamber currently lists roughly 12 members and approximately $30,000 in founding contributions.

The presenter singled out local business leaders who provided letters of support that were in the council packet, identifying two auto dealers (Jason Chavez and Trevor Steele) as early supporters. He described candidate interviews for a paid CEO and said the group had interviewed several finalists and expected to hire a chief executive to lead membership and programming.

Councilmembers thanked the presenters and suggested the chamber coordinate directly with city staff and schedule follow‑ups so the council can hear business testimonials at a future meeting. No formal action was taken by the council on the presentation; it was received for information.