President Robin McNulty convened the regular meeting of the Springfield Township Business Association at 8:00 a.m. on July 9, 1998 in The Grove of Springfield Township Banquet Hall. Forty-one members were in attendance. Mr. McNulty reminded the group that the primary focus of the Association is to
- Promote our businesses
- Advocate for business concerns
- Network
- Serve the Community
Committee Reports:
Program Committee: Guest speakers are scheduled through this year. In September, Michael Hinnenkamp will present the proposed Springfield Township Land Use Plan and, in November, the FBI Chief of Security will speak on white-collar crime. At the Trustees' meeting on June 12, the following projects were suggested and, when presented at this meeting, membership indicated approval for creation of a job bank; Adopt-A-Highway (Ronald Reagan Cross County); annual beautification awards and a large community event such as a festival or Pioneer Day.
Land Use & Zoning:
The committee had no official report. Mike Hinnenkamp reported progress in formulating the Township Land Use Plan which he will present to the Association in September. Mr. Hinnenkamp noted that Hamilton County plans to let bids for widening of Winton Road soon and suggested that Ted Hubbard, Chief Deputy Engineer give the group an update at the next meeting.
Communications:
A beginning web site has been created by Ed Lutz of EXODUS. This site can be accessed at www2.eos.net/stba. If anyone has information for the Newsletter, please contact Cathy Bonewell. A reminder notice will be sent to members before the September meeting.
Government Affairs & Services:
The committee did not meet. At this time, they are soliciting additional members to serve on this committee.
Treasurers Report:
Treasurer Chuck Dale reported $1,575.00 received from 35 members who have paid dues.
Other Business:
A complaint about flooding in various areas was voiced. The Township and County will work with the Association to alleviate this problem if at all possible.
Karen Hug asked members to consider sponsorship of SAY soccer teams. This is a good way to advertise your business on the team shirts. Cost is $150. Contact Ms. Hug if interested.
Guest Speaker:
Joe Gorman introduced Stu Mahlin who spoke on "Hiring". Mr. Mahlin noted that, with unemployment at a 25 year low of 4%, it is important to retain the 'core' employees in our businesses. A problem facing many businesses is a shortage of good workers who want to move up to supervisory positions due to lack of overtime pay or adequate compensation for the amount of responsibility involved. He indicated that, in this job market particularly, our employees are volunteers who choose to work for us. Lack of training makes it difficult to keep employees and young people need to be taught a work-ethic. Mr. Mahlin encouraged members to work with schools to teach our youth that the same behavior acceptable in schools is not acceptable in the business world.
Member Spotlight:
The featured business was Rick Reder, Executive Consulting Group. Mr. Reder was in the insurance business for 40 years and recently started his own firm advising owners 'how to run their businesses.'
President McNulty adjourned the meeting at 9:10 a.m.
Next Meeting:
Regular: September 10, 1998 - 8:00 a.m. at the
Grove, 9158 Winton Road
Trustees: August 14, 1998 - 8:00 a.m. at Perkins
Restaurant, Winton Road