FY 2024-25 Annual Plan, Cotati Chamber of Commerce
Summary
The Cotati Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to enhancing the economic vitality and quality of life in Cotati by supporting local businesses and promoting the city as a vibrant destination.
This plan outlines our strategic initiatives and commitments, including continuing to serve as a Visitor Center, maintaining an updated downtown Business Directory, selling advertising and producing the "Explore Cotati" magazine, partnering with the City on events and promotions, acting as a business liaison, and conducting monthly meetings with local businesses.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to support and advocate for the local business community, enhance the economic climate of Cotati, and provide resources and opportunities for business growth and community engagement.
Programs
Visitor Center Operations: Continue operating as the Visitor Center for the City of Cotati, providing information and assistance to visitors. Provide visitors with information on local attractions, events, and businesses. We maintain a welcoming environment and are open 9AM1PM Monday -Thursday ( unless there is an offsite meeting) and Fridays by appt.
Business Directory Maintenance: We will update and maintain the downtown Business Directory semi- annually to ensure it is current and accurate. Ensure accuracy by regularly contacting local businesses for any changes in information. "Explore Cotati" Magazine: Sell advertising space and manage content along with the City Parks and Recreation Department for the "Explore Cotati" magazine to promote local businesses and attractions. Work with local businesses to create compelling content that highlights Cotati’s attractions.Distribute the magazine at local spots, including the Library, SSU, Olivers and other high traffic areas to maximize exposure. Digital copies of magazine will be available on Cotati Chamber website and City of Cotati website. The magazine will be distributed two times per year, Spring/Summer and Fall/Winter.
Event Partnership and Promotion: Collaborate with the City of Cotati on events and promotional activities to enhance community engagement and economic development. Assist in the promotion and organization of these events to ensure high participation and success. We include the events on our website, newsletter, and social media. Some of the events include Cotati Kids Day, Shop and Stroll, Halloween, Car Show/Movie night and the Cotati Farmers market. The Cotati Chamber host two free community events yearly—Cotati Music Festival and Oktoberfest—which attract over 1,000 attendees per event. These events support the city by bringing in tourism and revenue, enhancing community engagement, and fostering economic growth.We will continue to explore opportunities for new events that can drive economic activity and community engagement.
Business Liaison: Act as a liaison between local businesses, the City, and EDB addressing concerns and facilitating communication. Serve as the primary contact for businesses needing assistance and resources. Facilitate introductions and connections between businesses and Cotati Chamber of Commerce 216 E. School Street, Cotati CA 94931 cotati.org City staff. Provide updates on feedback and other news with the businesses. Use these meetings to gather feedback, discuss challenges, and identify opportunities for support and collaboration.
Business Meetings: Partner with CD staff and EDB to meet with at least 1 local businesses every two months to gather feedback, understand their needs, and provide support Compensation Request
In recognition of the extensive work and commitment involved in fulfilling the terms of this licensing agreement, the Cotati Chamber of Commerce is requesting a compensation of $15,000 from the City of Cotati. This compensation will support the above programs.
In addition to the monetary compensation, the CCC requests that all park fees for the Cotati Music Festival and Oktoberfest be waived, (minus deposits and cleaning fess). Furthermore, the CCC seeks the use of either the Cotati Room or other classrooms four times per year, with fees waived (excluding any applicable deposit/cleaning fees). Dates and times must be scheduled by the City.
This compensation and support will enable the CCC to effectively execute its strategic initiatives and contribute to the economic and community development of Cotati.
As per the licensing agreement with the City of Cotati, CCC will submit the following information that includes:
A roster with contact information for CCC Board Members, the Board of Directors meeting schedule, Executive Director, President, and the designated City point of contact.
A current list of CCC members.
An annual schedule of CCC events and programs, including public events.
An annual schedule of joint events and programs with other organizations.
Requests for any City facility or park use.
Plans for maintaining business listings on downtown signage and digital guides.
Strategies for publishing and managing the Community Guide.
Plans for business visitation and monthly summary of business interactions, requests/issues, outcomes. This is for meetings/interactions where the City isn't present, compiled into annual summary.
The Cotati Chamber of Commerce is committed to fostering a thriving business environment and vibrant community in Cotati. Through our strategic initiatives and strong partnership with the City, we aim to provide valuable services and support to local businesses, enhance tourism, and contribute to the overall economic development of the area.
Cotati Chamber of Commerce 216 E. School Street, Cotati CA 94931 cotati.org