The Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce and The 712 Initiative are thrilled to provide an update on their merger, a strategic move that promises to enhance the growth and development of the region. With both organizations now united under one roof at the Chamber’s offices on the 100 Block, this collaboration brings together their combined expertise to drive economic and social progress in Council Bluffs.
The merger is well underway, with the team from The 712 Initiative having recently relocated to the Chamber’s headquarters. As they integrate operations, the unified organization remains focused on serving the community, fostering growth, and creating opportunities for all.
New Board Leadership
A dedicated and experienced board of directors will lead the newly formed organization:
Board Members:
- George Barton – ConAgra Brands
- Dave Burd – Methodist Jennie Edmundson
- John Dresher – American Family Insurance – John Dresher
- Jennifer Fletcher – CyncHealth
- Wyatt Greenwood – Midstates Bank
- Mark Hanwright – Heartland Properties
- Scott Hartman – US Bank
- Brent Hoesing – Lewis Central Schools
- Shane Hoss – ETI
- Dan Kinney – Iowa Western Community College
- Amy McDermott – Kinect World Fuel Services
- Dr. Vickie Murillo – Council Bluffs Community Schools
- Nikki Rauth – CHI Health Mercy
- Hannah Smith – Trivium Life Services
- Kerrie Snyder – Assistant Pottawattamie County Attorney
- Evan Summy – Midwest Ag Services
- Jessica Vanderpool – Kinseth Hospitality Co.
- Dave Wise – TS Bank
- David Zimmerman – Availa Bank
Officers:
- Mark Hanwright, Chair
- Dave Burd, Chair-Elect
- Dave Zimmerman, Past-Chair
- Jen Fletcher, Treasurer
Executive Committee:
- Mark Hanwright
- Dave Burd
- Dave Zimmerman
- Jen Fletcher
- Amy Carolus
- Wyatt Greenwood
- Amy McDermott
Celebration of Progress
A private event at Bayliss Park Hall on August 22nd honored the hard work behind the merger. Board members, community partners, and staff gathered to reflect on the significant transition and celebrate the beginning of a new chapter. Attendees later joined the Farmers Market Council Bluffs, an event that remains a key initiative of the new organization. The market will continue to thrive, highlighting the organization’s dedication to local businesses and community engagement.
Meet the Team
As the newly formed entity continues to build momentum, the following team members are ready to engage with the community:
- Chris LaFerla – President & CEO
- Lynn Dittmer – Director of Redevelopment
- Lindsey Grote-Rodgers – Director of Marketing & PR
- Jacob Cool – Director of Member Services
- Jessica Escamilla – Director of Events
- Rachel Jensen – Director of Workforce Development
- Anne Silknitter – Program Coordinator
- Brandy Van Riessen – Executive Assistant
- Cieandra Tripp – Project Coordinator
- Brandi Drvol – Farmers Market Manager
Each team member is eager to foster community growth, build strong connections, and create a lasting, positive impact in Council Bluffs and beyond.
A Vision for the Future
The merger between the Council Bluffs Area Chamber of Commerce and The 712 Initiative underscores a unified vision for the future, focusing on:
- Strengthening leadership and community ties
- Expanding business networking opportunities
- Enhancing neighborhood connections
- Raising awareness of critical local issues
- Offering service and leadership opportunities to residents
In the coming months, the organization will focus on key initiatives, including:
- Legal Considerations: Ensuring a seamless integration of the two organizations.
- Team Integration: Uniting the workforce under a shared mission.
- Organizational Structure: Developing an efficient structure to guide growth.
- Culture Development: Building a culture centered on community impact.
- Strategic Planning: Crafting a robust strategic plan for future success.
As the organization embarks on this exciting journey, it remains committed to the Council Bluffs community, determined to foster connections and drive regional growth. With the continued support of its board, staff, and community partners, the organization is poised to create a lasting, positive impact on the region’s economic and social landscape.
We look forward to this new chapter and the opportunity to serve you better. Together, we will build a stronger, more connected future for Council Bluffs.
