Chamber Board Unanimously Votes Against County Housing Proposal for St. Charles

Hudson, NY, June 23, 2009 – The Columbia County Chamber of Commerce Economic Development and Government Affairs Committee met with County Supervisor Chair Art Baer and Commissioner of the Department of Social Services Paul Mossman on Monday to discuss their proposal to create a homeless shelter at the current St. Charles Hotel.

The Columbia County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has voted unanimously with three abstentions against the County proposal. The Board fully supports the two motions made by the Chamber's Economic Development and Government Affairs Committee.

Motion 1:

On behalf of the 850 members of the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce, the committee is admittedly against the proposal of a homeless shelter at the St. Charles Hotel. The Chamber feels that such a move would be extremely detrimental to business in Hudson and throughout Columbia County.

Motion 2:

The committee requests that the supervisor's immediately withdraw their resolution to negotiate a seven-year lease for the St. Charles property as it is not in the best interest to the business and residents of Columbia County.

“After the discussion with Baer and Mossman, we did not feel that the County acknowledged the economic implications of this move,” stated Chamber Chairman Michael Sullivan. “Already several individuals have stopped moving Hudson projects forward as a result of the recent actions the County has taken,” added Sullivan.

The Columbia County Chamber of Commerce acknowledges that there are issues with homeless transitional and workforce housing in the County, and the Chamber plans to be proactive and engaged in finding solutions.

“The Chamber will do all in our power to assure that government considers the impact its decisions have on economic development,” stated Chamber President & CEO David Colby.

The Chamber feels that now is the time for residents and businesses throughout the County to become extremely vocal by contacting the media and your elected officials.

The Columbia County Chamber of Commerce, with its 850 members, is the leading voice of business in Columbia County , providing advocacy, promotional and benefit solutions for its members. Those seeking more information concerning the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce and membership can contact the Chamber at (518) 828-4417 or visit the website at www.columbiachamber-ny.com.