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Kearney Chamber director reports membership growth, new office and programs
Summary
Stacy Bratcher told the board the Chamber hit about 300 members, received $20,000 in annual city funding for a full‑time executive director, and moved into a larger office at 190 West 92 Highway to expand programming and co‑working space.
Stacy Bratcher, executive director of the Kearney Chamber of Commerce, delivered the Chamber's 2024 annual report to the board and credited the city for continued annual funding of $20,000 that supports a full‑time executive director. She said membership reached about 300 this year, while noting growth slowed amid economic pressures on small businesses.
"If you don't know who I am, my name is Stacy Bratcher. I'm your Kearney Chamber Executive Director," Bratcher said, then reviewed highlights including leadership development, expanded events and a new office. She told the board the Chamber moved from roughly 1,100 square feet to a little over 1,700 square feet at 190 West 92 Highway; the larger space will add storage, a kitchenette and room for training, conferences and co‑working.
Bratcher listed programs the Chamber took on in 2024 — adding a part‑time market coordinator for the farmers market, producing a monthly motor show, partnering with local institutions for Smithsonian Crossroads programming (estimating door counts over 10,000), launching a leadership committee and initiating a health‑care forum that drew local hospital CEOs. She said the Chamber distributed a community guide and directory and produced a shop‑local tote for outreach.
Board members thanked Bratcher for the report and for the Chamber's role in supporting local businesses. The presentation concluded with the board inviting continued collaboration on economic development and community programming.
