Templeton & Paso Robles Chambers of Commerce Unite

Pictured above, Templeton Chamber of Commerce Chairwoman of the Board Elizabeth Covert (AM Sun Solar) and Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce Chairman of the Board Isiah Gomer (Paso Robles Waste & Recycle) .

Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that it is joining forces with the Templeton Chamber of Commerce into a single, cohesive business support organization. Details of exact configuration are still being outlined. The clear mission and vision are unity of the two organizations through the consolidation of resources, resulting in more value for our esteemed members. This decision brings new cooperative marketing opportunities, workforce development strategies and a stronger combined effort in the area of advocacy. Acting now to merge the two Chambers of Commerce is integral to supporting business with useful and effective tools to build prosperity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What can I expect from the newly formed organization?

A: Our dedicated team members are available and ready to assist in your business needs.

You can expect more membership options, increased visibility through cooperative marketing opportunities, networking, ongoing events and more for the new year and future. As these changes occur, the chamber will be working to keep you informed. As a member, you will continue to be valued as a leader of the business community of the greater Paso Robles area.

Q: What is meant by greater Paso Robles area?

A: Although we serve members countywide, the greater Paso Robles area to us means Creston, Lake Nacimiento, Lake San Antonio, San Miguel, Shandon, Paso Robles and Templeton.

Q: Will offices be maintained in both Templeton and Paso Robles?

A: Templeton Chamber of Commerce will retain its office at 321 South Main Street in downtown Templeton. Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center is located at 1225 Park Street. Stop by and say hello at either location.

Q: Why did the chambers of commerce decide to merge?

A: The decision was made based on the best interest of our members. The ability to combine and expand our resources in conjunction with a stronger voice in the areas of advocacy and economic development will strengthen both chambers and in turn our members.

Q: Will we still be called the Templeton Chamber of Commerce and Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center?

A: The newly formed organization will be referred to as the Paso Robles and Templeton Chambers of Commerce & Visitor Centers.

Q: Are there plans to eventually change the names?

A: More discussion will ensue in coming months. No formal decisions have been made at this time.

Q: Will you host events in both Templeton and Paso Robles?

A: Yes, we will continue to host events in both locations. In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, all events and programs are being re-evaluated. All upcoming events will be posted on both the Paso Robles and Templeton Chamber of Commerce websites, so be sure to check in for upcoming events.

Q: Who is the staff at the chamber?

A: The Chamber staff is a dedicated team of professionals with expertise in visitor services, marketing, membership, events, advocacy, business and workforce development. Click here to find out more!

Q: Will my member benefits change?

A: The value of merging the two organizations is the ability to provide more benefits to all members. It increases opportunity through networking and promotional offerings – just a few of the additional perks you will soon realize. With our new value-based membership tier options, more benefits are available to all Chamber members based on what’s best for your business needs. For more information, contact Gina Fitzpatrick, gina@pasorobleschamber.com.

Q: How will this affect my membership?

A: Your current membership will be maintained whether you are a Templeton or Paso Robles Chamber member. Our new tiered membership options allow more choices than ever before when selecting your level of membership. This new program is available to you now if you’d like to upgrade or will be presented to you upon renewal. Our membership team is more than happy to discuss the opportunities with you and provide a detailed orientation to describe all the benefits our members enjoy.

Q: Will my membership dues be changing?

A: Most likely yes upon annual renewal. A tiered membership program offers various membership levels based on your level of involvement. This provides more options for businesses of all sizes. You can choose an appropriate level of membership based on your needs. Click here to review the member benefit package. The guide includes detailed information on various tiers: Build, Develop, Thrive, Prosper, Succeed.

Q: What if I am a member of both chambers?

A: Our system is now tracking this information, and going forward only one invoice will be issued on an annual basis. We appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss your satisfaction and expectations of your Chamber.

Q: What is the value of a Chamber of Commerce?

A: Chamber membership has and will continue to support local business promotion. Being a member of the Chamber remains a valuable resource for business networking, marketing, advertising, collaboration, education, legislative representation and all you’ve come to expect from a Chamber organization. Your involvement allows the Chamber to continue our work in all areas including workforce development, economic development, community vitality and tourism – just to name a few.

Q: How can I become more involved?

A: Apply to become a board member, join a committee, or get involved with our dynamic ambassador teams.

Q: How can I stay informed?

A: Click here to subscribe to our mailers.

Q: Who do I talk to for more information?

A: Anyone with questions is encouraged to contact us directly, (805) 238-0506 in Paso Robles, (805) 434-1789 in Templeton. We would be happy to discuss any questions you may have. For further consultation, schedule a one-on-one with one of our dedicated team members.

Two Chambers of North County Announce Merger

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

PASO ROBLES, CA – Two San Luis Obispo County Chambers of Commerce have announced they are joining forces through a merger.

Effective January 1, 2022 Templeton Chamber of Commerce and Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center will begin consolidating resources and are forecasting to operate as a single entity and span the northern unincorporated and incorporated jurisdictions of San Luis Obispo County.

The merger unites nearly 1,000 businesses that will operate together in an effort to provide more for their membership base by increasing economic vitality and bolstering regional business growth and retention.

“I am excited about the opportunities this alliance will afford our members,” says Isiah Gomer, chairman of the board and manager at Paso Robles Waste & Recycle. “We plan to continue working on attracting and retaining qualified, talented employees into a 21st century workforce. We will continue working to apprise, retain, expand and enable existing businesses to thrive while attracting new businesses to our wonderful area.”

Pooling the neighboring business organizations mobilizes the power of its total membership reach to create an optimized business climate. The collective merging was formed following the unanimous approval by the Board of Directors from the two respective chambers.

Current staff members are looking forward to adopting a modern working model and focusing efforts on business vitalization and exciting member benefits. The merging will allow the chamber to focus its efforts on major topics such as fostering a skilled workforce, finding solutions to the unhoused population and important chamber initiatives with more unified resources.

“Merging of these business organizations will enhance our ability to be a more powerful, effective proponent and advocate for small, medium and large-sized businesses along California’s beautiful Central Coast,” Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce President/CEO Gina Fitzpatrick says. “The merging is an even greater resource to leverage the growing region as an ideal location to operate a diversity of businesses from startups to corporations. We are excited and look forward to working together to unite business leaders for enhanced promotion of area commerce. We are so proud of the vibrancy of our current members and honored to be coalescing as a viable business community.”

Details of exact configuration are still being outlined. The mission and vision are unity of the two organizations through the consolidation of resources, resulting in more value for our esteemed members. This decision brings new cooperative marketing opportunities, workforce development strategies and a stronger combined effort in the area of advocacy. Acting now to merge the two Chambers of Commerce is integral to supporting business with useful and effective tools to build prosperity.

“Paso Robles and Templeton have distinct history and culture that we will be working hard to preserve and bolster,” says Elizabeth Covert, solar consultant at A.M. Sun Solar and chair of the board, Templeton Chamber of Commerce. “We are inextricably connected – that will not change and only be furthered by this effort. Combining these two organizations and memberships ensures northern San Luis Obispo County’s business community will be ideally positioned as we work above and beyond economic recovery from the pandemic.”

Integration of the chambers will provide a more consolidative policy platform for issues and concerns within California’s 24th Congressional District, which enables businesses to be heard amid the political framework of operations, business policies, and legislation. Unifying the collective power of the communities represents the immense potential of a more robust membership base to be a stronger voice for business.

“This next chapter comes with excitement and innovation. The combined organization will represent an unprecedented and historical level of service, business support and growth potential for member businesses,” says Steven Herring, owner of All About Events and incoming chairman of the board, 2022. “As a local Templeton resident and business owner operating in both Templeton and Paso Robles and having served as a board member for both chambers, I am extremely optimistic about our future.”

The merger aims to enhance the organization’s sizaeble presence in the area including workforce development, membership services, small business networking, mentoring, growth opportunities and a broader impact in the burgeoning Paso Robles wine region and surrounding areas.

Further details of the announcement are slated to be released in coming months.

Templeton Chamber of Commerce is headquartered at 321 South Main Street in Templeton. Comprised of local businesses, professionals, nonprofits and individuals, its mission is to promote economic vitality, improve quality of life and encourage cooperation within the community. Residents formed its original Board of Trade in 1913 to promote trade and commerce, work and advertising for community growth.

Paso Robles Chamber of Commerce operates with a vibrant Visitor Center at 1225 Park Street in Paso Robles. Its mission is to promote economic vitality, empower leaders, champion businesses, foster civic engagement and honor our history. Formed in 1920, the chamber has advocated for local businesses by developing and strengthening networking opportunities, cultivating leaders, sharing expertise and strengthening economic well-being of the Paso Robles community.