(Atlantic, Iowa) – The Atlantic City Council, during their meeting this (Wednesday) evening, discussed and then recommended for future action, continued funding of the Atlantic Area Chamber of Commerce, with the understanding the Chamber Board will provide better oversight of their accounts, to prevent future financial issues of the type that resulted in the arrest of the former Chamber Director.

Prior to their making their decision, the Council heard (during the Public Comment portion of the meeting) from NishnaNet owner Scott Bennett, who urged them to continue supporting the Chamber, despite the recent legal matter involving the former Director Bailey Smith, because the Chamber does a lot for the community.

The Council was of unanimous consensus that the services provided by the Chamber are worth continued funding at some level to be determined. Mayor Garrett pointed out that the City provided the Chamber with $7,725 per month ($92,700 annually). In order to continue with that or some level of funding, “there must be corrective action” in oversight for the future.

Council members offered their thoughts on the future of the City/Chamber relationship. Councilman Jim Behrens…

He said now’s not the time to make the situation worse. Councilman Dana Halder said he was angry, and upset that the matter was even on the Council’s agenda for discussion.

Councilman Jeremy Butler…

Councilperson Elaine Otte..

And, Councilperson Emily Kennedy said she has confidence in the new Chamber Executive Director Kelsey Beschorner, who was previously the Chamber’s Programs Director…

In other business, the Atlantic City Council acted to reappoint Mark Smith to the Airport Commission. Smith currently serves as the Vice-Chair of the Commission, with his term expiring on November 1st. Members of the Airport Commission serve six-year, staggered terms.