During the Chamber's July 14 meeting of the Bushnell Chamber of Commerce, members voted to explore a prepaid debit card as a replacement for its paper Bushnell Bucks program, marking a potential shift in how the local currency initiative operates.
Holly Brint and Cindy Ridle will research whether the debit card option is feasible, including whether the Chamber would face fees to issue or use the cards and whether the system can restrict purchases to Bushnell businesses only.
Chamber members present also approved spending up to $3,600 on Christmas decorations for streetlights along Route 41. The decorations, which will feature a snowflake design, could number more than six pieces if an anonymous donor matches the Chamber's contribution.
The Chamber needs city approval to install and store the decorations. Each piece must be mounted on stainless steel brackets at least 14 feet high on the poles.
In other business:
Brint will draft a letter explaining the Cash Mob program for distribution on social media, in local newspapers, and to Chamber members. Shelley Postin volunteered to photograph local businesses and owners for a Business Questionnaire to be published on Facebook.
The Chamber will participate in the Fall Festival Parade, distributing candy and frisbees printed with the Chamber logo and a QR code.
Mayor Dave Norton reported that ADM has officially closed its Bushnell facility and is removing equipment. The building is for sale, and Patriot Railroad has expressed interest in purchasing it.
Norton also announced that Route 41 through Bushnell will be resurfaced next year, including new concrete sidewalks and gutters. Because some businesses opposed losing parking spots in front of their buildings, the city will install guttering only in those locations.
The next Chamber meeting is scheduled for August 11.
