Message from the President

A couple of incidents recently have highlighted, for me the gaps, and disparities in consumer choices here. One incident involved trying to get a cable company to send a repair person to fix our bundled service (TV, telephone, internet) that had been down for two days. I learned that there is no local office and that the service dispatch location is in San Diego. The second situation revolves around trying to get my Mother’s lift chair repaired. I won’t even go into the particulars of this on-going saga. Needless to say, I have been promised that the parts will arrive tomorrow for several days.

 

Even if one considers business to business activity, a similar situation exists. There is an on-going struggle to find quality, reliable vendors, contractors, and suppliers and even more of a struggle to maintain the good relationships that you establish. The tales of not getting paid for work performed or of poor customer service are legend in this town.

 

I think the Chamber of Commerce has an important role in this discussion. As the general business association, the Chamber will continue to support policies and decisions that enhance the healthy growth and diversification of the local business community. Additionally, the Chamber can play a role in reinforcing higher expectations of quality and service for both consumers and businesses. We need to set the bar high and reach up to meet those expectations.