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The Elgin Chamber of Commerce is ushering in new leadership and a modern downtown hub to further bolster the community’s economic and cultural vitality after a reportedly successful 2024.
Rhonda Graham was named chamber president Feb. 21 following the resignation of Veronica Seever, whose final day is set for March 6. Graham brings more than 40 years of experience in the insurance industry, is a licensed risk manager with the state and spent six years as a Smithville City Council member for Place 2.
This change in direction comes shortly after the chamber celebrated the grand opening of its new downtown location and visitor center at 30 N. Main St.
“I really think it’s going to be absolutely a game changer for us. The visibility, and just the space, is really fantastic,” Seever told City Council in February. “The community came out in full support, and we look forward to welcoming all visitors and businesses to continue fostering a thriving downtown together.”
Among the site’s new features is a visitor sign-in book to track traveler information, a store with Elgin-branded items and welcome bags featuring local business swag.
The chamber is now open on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to noon, Seever added, expanding access for community engagement.
According to the chamber’s annual report, membership has surged to 317 local businesses, while nonprofit participation grew to 61 by the end of 2024.
The report also noted 10 membership meetings, 37 ribbon cuttings and a series of educational events — including a popular “Managing Multigenerations” class designed to shed light on communication styles and strategies for diverse age groups.
“We have a lot of new businesses coming in, and we think it’s important to give them a step up,” Seever said. “We’re trying to remember that promotion and tourism are very important here, yes, but it is just as important for us to promote outside of our community to get people to come here.”
