The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce recently formed a new group to help address
the needs of some of St. Joseph’s major employers. The Manufacturers Council met for the first time on Feb. 13.
In the past, two separate manufacturing groups represented different geographical regions of St. Joseph, the Eastside and Stockyards groups. These groups had varying success in attendance and the geographical parameters left some manufacturers out of discussions.
“In establishing one group, the intention is to engage all local manufacturers in the community and to provide a forum that allows discussion of issues of interest to companies involved in manufacturing,” said R. Patt Lilly, President and CEO of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce.
About 25 people attended the first meeting of the combined Manufacturers Council. Attendees learned about training opportunities from Missouri Enterprise, discussed legislative issues, reviewed the Workforce Ready Communities initiative and heard from City Manager Bruce Woody, who discussed wastewater issues and capital improvements.
“Having City officials participate in these meetings helps to bring additional value to those who attend,” Mr. Lilly said.
The group will meet quarterly, with the next scheduled meeting to be held at 11:45 a.m. on May 8 at the Chamber.
