Barrington Chamber Membership Grows by 252 New Members

Even in a down economy, the Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce realized steady growth in its membership, said Past Chairman Michael Beightol, at the Economic Summit, State of the Region, Jan. 31. 

“This year we’ll blow by the 900 member mark and reaching 1,000 is still a goal,” he said. The Chamber welcomed 252 new members in 2011. 

Beightol attributed the Chamber’s success to four areas:

• Sound fiscal management,
• A stable staff,
• Membershp growth;
• Programming.

“Our membership is growing especially from outside our immediate area. Companies want to do business here and perceive value in joining the chamber. Other chambers are are not able to deliver programs and services like Barrington,” Beightol said.

Chamber Chairman Christina Adams said chambers of commerce, nationally and internationally, have been confronted by a new economic reality.

“It’s no longer a question of  ‘are we ready for change,’ but a certainty that change is necessary. The Barrington Chamber is proactive in assisting and advocating for member businesses and taking a stance in the new normal,” she said. 

Beightol encouraged members to get involved on chamber councils or task forces.

 “Thing about what you can do to step forward, lead the charge and give back to chamber . . . If you do, the entire community will be better,” he said.