The Estevan Chamber of Commerce welcomed new leadership and reflected on a year of milestones at its annual general meeting Wednesday afternoon. Outgoing president Denise Taylor led the proceedings, which highlighted the chamber’s 120th anniversary, financial stability, and key organizational changes.
Executive director Marissa Scarlett delivered the State of the Chamber address, highlighting a year of transition and success for the organization. She noted that the chamber celebrated its 120th anniversary, hosted major events, and maintained a 96 per cent member retention rate.
The financial report indicated a strong fiscal position, with a net profit of $8,013. Total revenues were reported at $322,177, with expenses amounting to $314,164. Key sources of revenue included membership fees, sponsorships and event income, while major expenses covered operational costs, staffing and event hosting. The AGM also approved the continuation of a compilation engagement rather than a full audit, with MNP appointed to oversee the 2025 financial statements.
Key motions were passed, including approval of the 2024 financial statements, continuation of the compilation engagement, and the appointment of Myers-Norris Penny for the 2025 fiscal year. Proposed bylaw amendments were also approved, clarifying leadership roles and board succession planning.
The meeting recognized outgoing board members Corey Casemore and Melanie Tribiger for their service. Several board members renewed their terms, and six new nominees were accepted to fill vacancies.
The 2025 Estevan Chamber of Commerce board includes:
President – Tania Andrist Hlohovsky, Southeast College
Vice-president – Ashley Gallaway, Wil-Tech Industries Ltd.
Treasurer – Linda Mack, RE/MAX Blue Chip Realty
Directors:
- Twyla Ferron, Western Star Signature Hotel & Conference Centre
- John Williams, Glased Catering
- Cody Schraeder, RBC
- Alan Nixon, Revelation Engineering
- Travis Frank, Graphic Press
- Daniel Espelien, Golden West & Case by Case Benefits
- Jasmin Dionsio, Microtel Inn & Suites
- Chris Morhart, JS Truck Mart
The event concluded with a presentation from Curtis Adair from MNP on cybersecurity tips and insights.
Scarlett said the meeting was well attended and went smoothly. She emphasized the value of having a diverse and full board. “Really happy to have a full board. It really provides me with a lot of viewpoints from different business owners, different employees and different industries that are impacted by Estevan.”
Looking ahead, she said she is eager to see how the federal election unfolds. “I'm just really excited to see how our federal election is going to call out, and I'm looking forward to that next political forum.”
She also noted the importance of monitoring tariffs and their effects on local businesses. “I am really interested to see how we handle tariffs moving forward as a country and province and the impacts that will have on our businesses.”
Tania Andrist Hlohovsky, the new president of the Estevan Chamber of Commerce, said, “I’ve been involved with quite a few boards and nonprofit organizations, and the chamber is a nonprofit organization governed by the Board of Trade. And so this is a natural progression for myself personally, but also just my involvement with the community, whether it’s the nursing home committee or whether it’s the United Way.”
She sees it as an opportunity for collaboration and a chance to build synergies within the region.
As part of her role at Southeast College, she is involved in applied research and innovation, which “is a really terrific fit” with the chamber, allowing her to “promote Estevan as a city” and strengthen partnerships.
“What excites me most about this opportunity is the events that we host,” she said, highlighting the annual golf tournament and the EBEX business awards in October.
“This year is what we call an EBEX year. So we give out our business awards in October, and it’s an amazing party. And we have a cocktail party with red carpet and businesses are honored. It’s a very fun event.”