County Administrator Mark McCauley notified the Vancouver Chamber of Commerce in a letter dated Friday, December 13.
“Chambers provide valuable services to their members and this decision to withdraw is not based on any diminution of perspective on behalf of the board. Rather, the county is seeking to achieve a more limited focus in its funded projects and programs,” wrote McCauley.
When asked to explain the move, Madore said, “What is the role of county government? It’s to provide services that private industry cannot provide and to create an environment for businesses to survive and prosper. Neither one of those fit into the role of making contributions to (business) organizations.”
County records from a February, 13 2013 board meeting show that commissioners Madore and Mielke directed then-County Administrator Bill Barron to not pay annual chamber invoices. Records show that Commissioner Stuart did not agree with the action.
