The Santa Barbra and Goleta Chambers of Commerce announced Friday that due to the COVID-19 crisis they have merged their organizations.
Buisness leaders say the economic impacts have been severe and Santa Barbara County leaders say they hope this will ensure both a solid future for the business community and a unified voice for businesses throughout southern Santa Barbara County.
The decision was made unanimously by both of the Board of Directors on April 22.
"Although our two cities have distinct histories and identities that we are eager to preserve and celebrate, our economies are inextricably linked and our business community is stronger together," said Geoff Green, CEO of Santa Barbara City College Foundation and current Chairman of the Chamber of Commerce of the Santa Barbara Region.
The details of the exact configuration and even the name of the new organization are still being determined.
Current staff members of both organizations say they are excited to shift to a new working model and to focus their combined efforts on business recovery and economic vitality in the region.
Current members of both organizations will remain members of the new greater organization and all members will be contacted soon about the benefits and priorities of the combined organization
Organizers say many details will be worked out in the coming months, including merging websites, databases, Boards of Directors, signature events, and more.
