In a recent Spout Off post, the writer criticized the Stone Harbor Chamber of Commerce for having “a lot to say.” Presumably the spout is aimed at comments from chamber officials on policies or actions of the municipal council, where Marnie Lengle, the chamber’s coordinator, often represents the chamber’s view. The spouter does not make clear what the chamber has “a lot to say” about, or where.
The spout goes on to say that the chamber is funded by the borough, that the borough pays for “staging, sound, public safety and public works services for all Chamber events,” and that 84% of the revenue of the chamber goes to salaries and only 5% to charity. The spout ends with #Auditthechamber.
In a response to the anonymous spout, the chamber staff wrote to the Herald saying the following:
- The Stone Harbor Chamber of Commerce does not receive any funding from the Borough of Stone Harbor.
- As a 501c6, the chamber is funded by membership fees, advertising from the annual visitor’s guide, and sponsorships and monies earned through fundraising events.
- The borough does not pay for staging, sound, public safety or public works services for all chamber events.
- In 2023 the total revenue for the chamber was $218,000, with $57,000 going to salaries for a staff of five. That works out to 26% and not 84%. The highest level that the payroll budget has been set is $67,000.
- The chamber, as a 501c6, is not required to give to charity but does so each year.
The chamber adds that evidence can be provided for each of its rebuttal points.
Spouts are a popular and anonymous way for Herald readers to share their opinion. In the end they must be read as just that, opinion.
The Herald felt the need to present the opposing view of the Stone Harbor Chamber of Commerce.
Contact the reporter, Vince Conti, at vconti@cmcherald.com.
