State's Chambers of Commerce Promote Economic Development.

• Author: JONES, PATRICIA

From city beautification projects to working with the Legislature, these organizations have business development in mind.

From some of the smallest business organizations to the state's largest and most politically active group-many of Alaska's chamber of commerce organizations are taking a leading role in developing and encouraging economic growth within their regions.

Led by President Kara Moriarty, the Greater Fairbanks Chamber of Commerce has continued to make progress on goals set by the 800-strong membership.

"We're doing a tremendous amount with economic development in the community, which we've stressed very hard the past few years," said Dana McLay, operating officer for the Fairbanks Chamber.

Furthering the community's opportunities for economic development is a key issue important to those Interior Alaska entrepreneurs who have chosen to become involved in the local chamber organization. Using both traditional and creative methods, the business organization is working on many different fronts to ensure that the Fairbanks business community continues to thrive.

The chamber has created a rural/urban committee and is working as a partner to the Alaska Minority Business Development Center, an organization sponsored by the Tanana Chiefs Conference in Fairbanks.

"We're definitely trying to find ways to work with our rural neighbors to help with business development and enterprise," McLay said.

Such outreach to fledgling businesses in rural Interior communities will likely boost business in the region's hub, a view held by the Fairbanks Chamber.

In addition, the Fairbanks Chamber also has created a gas line subcommittee, part of its governmental affairs committee, to work on educational and developmental issues relating to the proposed natural gas pipeline project in Alaska.

"We certainly want to help educate the community and also capitalize on the potential that the gas line represents to the Fairbanks community," McLay said.

Additionally, the Fairbanks Chamber has long supported a beautification committee, which coordinates efforts to brighten up the community with flower sets along roadways and through the downtown area each summer.

While that might not seem directly linked to economic development, McLay said, the chamber "firmly believes that part of economic development is creating an attractive place for people to work, live and play."

Headquartered in the more populous area of Alaska, the Anchorage Chamber of Commerce is also...