Sandpoint Plans Economic ‘Summit’

The Chamber of Commerce plans to rally local businesses and politicians this month to decide how to revive the local economy.

Sluggish downtown business and the arrival of Wal-Mart here this summer prompted what the chamber is billing as an “economic development summit.”

The daylong meeting will be Feb. 29 at the Elks Club.

“It’s our goal to bring together some of the key business and government leaders to talk about how we can work together to improve the local economy,” said Chamber Executive Director Jonathan Coe.

The city succeeded in the late ‘80s diversifying the economy, and attracting new businesses, Coe said.

“Things have slowed down now, and it’s time to bring everyone back together.”

The Idaho Department of Commerce has offered to find funding agencies that could help pay for downtown improvements. The chamber is currently sending surveys to businesses. Those interested in being part of the survey can contact the chamber or Anne Kritzeck at Sandpoint Unlimited at 263-0545.

, DataTimes