Visitors to Millbrook and businesses within the city now have one place to meet all of their combined needs.
An open house was held Saturday for the new Millbrook Area Chamber of Commerce and Millbrook Visitor and Information Center. The two services are now located in the same building at 3453-A Main St.
“It’s much more accessible for the citizens as well as newcomers,” said Marietta Kouns, executive director of the chamber. “It’s a great opportunity for the chamber and city to provide business and residential growth.”
Saturday’s open house resembled a small party with live music and food for everyone. Mike Wilkinson, president of the chamber’s board of directors, handed out barbecue sandwiches to attendees during the lunch hour.
A host of area officials and representatives gathered in front of the building for a ribbon cutting, led by Mayor Al Kelley.
“I am so proud to have the city and chamber working together hand-in-hand,” Kelley said. “I’m really excited at the prospect of everyone working together.”
Kelley went on to cut a commemorative cake alongside Wilkinson and then mingled with those in attendance. He said not only is the cooperation of the two organizations vital, but also the location was an asset.
“It’s right in the heart of town,” Kelley said. “We want to try to keep this area as vital as we can, and we are doing our best at keeping it going.”
Carol Thompson, who works with the economic development office located in the same building, agreed, saying the location is near the city’s main streets, intersections and municipal complexes.
“This is working out beautifully. It’s a nice location and a nice organization,” Thompson said. “Being here, we hope to offer even more services to the community.”