The Morden and District Chamber of Commerce (MDCC) has a new board chair, with Scott Hoeppner taking up the role from the previous chair Michelle Sawatzky.

Hoeppner believes in the work of the chamber, which is why he put his name forward to become a board member.

"I think it just ended up being a natural progression," he says. "When I was nominated, the board members thought I would be a good fit. Hopefully, their trust in me isn't misplaced."

According to Hoeppner, the role of the chamber has a five-tiered approach, member engagement, source of information and business connection, the voice of business to the community and province, and seeking chamber accreditation. However, in the context of COVID, he says the chamber shone as a source of accurate information.

"Routinely, the chamber was publishing information to its members during COVID. They were putting on presentations and webinars to get information out and distribute it amongst its members and answer questions they had. In that particular role, I thought the chamber did a fantastic job."

With phase three now in effect as of June 21, the loosening of restrictions is only a good thing from a business perspective, says Hoeppner.

"Everybody is rightly concerned about COVID and wants to be careful about that, but I think everybody is also ready to get to work and open up if they can do so."

Coming out of restrictions, he adds the experience was very different for each member, and there hasn't been a consistent message on what chamber members need. Although everyone was hit by COVID so uniquely, he says the chamber wants to move forward with two goals in mind.

"We want to continue to be the voice of business for Morden in the province, but I think the chamber is now focusing on pursuing accreditation. What that will do, I believe, is once accreditation is received, it will help the chamber itself be more effective at achieving the rest of its roles or goals for itself and the business community."

Hoeppner adds the chamber has a fantastic and active board, and he's looking forward to serving the members of the chamber and doing as good a job as the previous chair.