FOR THE TOMAHAWK LEADER

TOMAHAWK – The Tomahawk Regional Chamber of Commerce is offering resources for members who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Executive Director Jesica Witte stated that, due to the cancellations of major events and “overall anticipated reductions in tourists in all of our communities,” the Chamber expects a “very steep reduction” in those numbers this year, noting the tourism industry could see a 20% to 40% loss in revenue. According to a “short survey of our business community,” every major sector, including those that rely on tourism dollars, anticipated a revenue loss of at least 10%, she explained.

“The recovery process will be long for our entire community,” Witte stated. “The Chamber is offering several programs to help businesses navigate.”

The Chamber is offering members information on loans, reopening processes and virtual appointments to help them design or redesign their business plans to help with recovery.

“Our 24/7 area at the front of our building now includes printed material for businesses to post directly from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) and Lincoln County Health Department,” Witte said.

Witte said the Chamber “realized there was a need for many business owners who do not have access to a printer at this time,” and stated that a letter was sent to non-member businesses last week “inviting them to join us during this rebuilding phase so we can work as a collective to keep our small town strong.”

“We are working with county and city officials to create plans to assure economic development efforts remain intact and continue to prosper,” she added.

Witte stated that, over the next several weeks, the Chamber will be releasing a three-part series on reopening guidelines. The series will be available on the Chamber’s website (www.gototomahawk.com) and social media pages, along with being sent in an email to all members.

For more information, visit www.gototomahawk.com.