It was a year of action for the Yosemite Chamber. A year of raising our collective voice and getting action. A year of partnerships and pitching in to get things done. A year of delivering on the strategic priorities our members set back in ‘23.
The highest priority was Public Affairs, specifically putting continued pressure on PG&E directly and through our county Board of Supervisors (thank you, Supervisor Haff) and the California Public Utilities Commission. In October, PG&E announced they would underground 16 miles of power lines in Pine Mountain Lake and downtown, and harden a large section of overhead lines in the Big Oak Flat area. Stay tuned to The Weekly for project updates in the new year.
Results are not yet in from Yosemite National Park on their Visitor Access Management Program, an issue that has severely impacted our local economy. The Chamber has actively pursued a solution that addresses both the environmental and the economic ecosystems. The new administration may have an effect on the National Park Service’s decision-making process. This ongoing issue will remain on the Chamber’s priority list in 2025.
Community Support from the Chamber has been a strategic priority for the past three years. Partnerships with public agencies like GCSD and local nonprofit organizations like ROOFBB Charity and Helping Hands, and local clubs like the Groveland/PML Garden Club have increased the Chamber’s ability to GET THINGS DONE.
And get it done, we did. Providing trash and recycling receptacles and services downtown…a long-standing request by downtown merchants and residents…has finally happened and the addition of custom-made ground planters, hanging flower baskets, and beautiful benches far exceeded everyone’s expectations. The Chamber’s Beautification program is a legacy that all will enjoy for many years to come and we’re darned proud of this achievement.
But wait, there’s more! A nonprofit called Grade to Gate Foundation has been established and is awaiting certification of a 501(c)3 charity status, at which point the Chamber of Commerce will transfer all assets and responsibilities for Beautification to the new, independent foundation. The Grade to Gate Foundation board and volunteers are already working on grant applications and new projects to improve the appeal of our gateway.
The 49er Festival, the Chamber’s only annual fundraising event, was refreshed and updated, improving member and community engagement. Exciting new offerings like The Taste of Tuolumne received high praise, and the Chamber was able once again to allocate significant funds to sustain the Beautification program. In late January, we will announce some exciting news that will make the 2025 49er Festival an even richer experience.
The Chamber’s Loyal to Local program collects donations from the public and purchases gift certificates from member businesses, which are then distributed to local first responders and educators to thank them for their dedication. This popular Community Support program is a win-win for everyone and will continue in 2025.
Ever-faithful to our community, The Weekly has become THE source of local news and events. We proudly publish fifty-two editions every year. It’s free and anyone can subscribe by sending an email to info@yosemitechamber.org.
The Yosemite Chamber of Commerce is on a roll. We’re always looking for new members…businesses of all sizes and types, local nonprofit organizations and clubs, and community members who like what we’re doing and want to be part of it. There’s a level of membership for everyone. Join us as we ring in 2025!
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