CEO & President’s Update – November 2024
Dear Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce Members,
We are coming off the heels of a spectacular October and there is no more spectacular place to live, work, and play than greater Cape Ann. The weather was superb, the visitors were flocking to our region in record numbers to enjoy our local cuisine, shop in our amazing stores, enjoy our local art scene, and stay in one of our many amazing accommodations. Specifically, two events stood out in October. The Chamber was able to successfully bring back Harvest Fest to Rockport. This is a long-cherished event in Rockport and based on the crowds, and smiles, it was a success by all accounts. Also, Essex Clamfest was nothing short of awesome! Crowds flocked to Essex from surrounding communities, as well as driving from greater Boston and beyond. Congratulations to the Clam Chowder Competition Winners: Woodman’s – 2024 Judges Choice Award, and Castle Manor Inn – 2024 People’s Choice Award. I can tell you, as a judge, they were all delicious.
As we move into November, we have exciting initiatives on the horizon. We will be introducing Mistletoe Madness, a shop-local program, which will be piloted in Manchester-by-the-Sea and Rockport this year. The program is designed to encourage local shopping and commerce in our five communities.
The Chamber has been active in our advocacy efforts for our members. Based on meetings, surveys, and feedback from members and representatives in the food service industry. the Chamber submitted a letter to the Editors of the Gloucester Daily Times, The Cricket, and the Ipswich Local News, in opposition to Massachusetts Ballot question #5.
Additionally, The Chamber is actively advocating for the interests of the Essex business community concerning the town’s currently proposed residential zoning districts.
Finally, in Gloucester, the proposed annual tax classification will be presented to the Finance Committee on November 5th, and if approved, presented to the Gloucester City Council for approval on November 12th. As you may know, every year the Greater Cape Ann Chamber – as the largest business organization on the North Shore – advocates for parity between the residential and CIP tax rates, and we are in full support of the Budget and Finance Committee’s recommendations to keep the rates unchanged. Gloucester businesses continue to deal with countless challenges. We need to do everything we can to support our existing businesses as well as encourage economic growth in our region. Now is not the time for additional expenses to struggling businesses. Talking with, and listening to businesses every day, as well as operating a business, every cost increase is painful and felt and, in many cases, will negatively impact business operations.
We look forward to continuing to support our region, our community, our businesses, and our residents.
With respect,
Steve Buckley, CEO Greater Cape Ann Chamber of Commerce
Karen Ristuben, President, GCACC Board of Directors