Year in Review: Point Roberts Chamber of Commerce

The Point Roberts Chamber of Commerce has faced the hardships to Point Roberts businesses since the start of the pandemic, head on. Brian Calder, president of the chamber, has sent out numerous press releases and conducted over 400 interviews locally and world-wide over the past 18 months concerning the isolation of Point Roberts due to international border restrictions brought on by Covid-19.

• Submitted presentation to the Wilson Center on behalf of the four exclaves.

• Submitted letters to:

The Port of Bellingham urging them to consider a purchase of the Point Roberts Marina. Whatcom County, twice, requesting consideration of allowing a small works roster administered locally to fund emergency services as situations arise.

• Hosted Whatcom County Executive at a luncheon to meet chamber directors and to share local business concerns.

• Hosted Governor Inslee, state representatives Rule and Shewmake, and Congresswoman DelBene at the International Marketplace with owner Ali Hayton.

• Active support for the Main Street Program.

• Active support and dialog with Senator Murray’s office regarding the Federal Small Business Relief Program.

• Supported the Hands Across the Border event on July 5 with Canadian and US participants.

• Received reimbursement grant from Whatcom County Tourism for specific tourism programs to attract and support Canadian tourists.

• Continued development of the new website.

• Increased chamber membership to more than 400 including businesses and associate members of local property groups.