Park development talk tops Chamber luncheon
BY SUZANNE LOUDAMY Staff writer

Sandra Knackstedt, Stephanie Rollings and Glen Greeney look at the proposed park site plan during Tuesday's quarterly meeting of the Whitehouse Area Chamber of Commerce.

Tuesday's Whitehouse Area Chamber of Commerce meeting saw almost 70 community members and business leaders come together to share a meal and hear about the growth and expansion of Whitehouse.

Chamber president Brent Conaway said that membership enrollment had topped 100 which was great news to the assembly. This number almost triples the membership since 2005 making 2006 their biggest year ever.

Other Chamber news included an invitation to the After- Hours event hosted by TD Fitness which was held Tuesday afternoon. Also, the Chamber is planning a Business Expo for the next quarterly meeting rather than a simple meal and speaker. The Expo will give the business community an opportunity to put their services in the forefront. Conaway said any member interested in participat- ing in the Expo should contact him at 903-839-3939.

The group also heard from the Lions Club International. The organization has received some calls from citizens interested in forming a group in Whitehouse. A Lions club is a group of volunteers who serve their community and make a difference in the lives of others. If you are interested in more information about Lions Club, contact Becky Whitenack at 903-758-5058.

Community Development director for the City of Whitehouse, Mike Peterson, was on hand to ask for input from the group. As part of the Vision 2020 Master Plan approved by the City Council, the planners included a desire to give the "downtown" area along FM 346 and a bit of Hwy. 110 north and south a cohesive look with a theme in mind. However, the planners did not set a theme. This is being left up to the council with community input.

Peterson asked the Chamber members and guests to bring their ideas to him and to the council. "We have an empty slate with the widening of 346, to make it look however we want," he said.

Also a part of the Vision 2020 Master Plan is to acquire more park land and to create an additional north/south thoroughfare. Stephanie Rollings with Planning Concepts was there to share more information on the current park location and design. The 24 acre piece of property is located north of FM 346 just west of Karla Drive. The park facility will be bordered on the west with a north/ south corridor connecting FM 346 to Hillcreek Road.

Following Ms. Rollings' presentation, City Manager Ronny Fite announced that a Town Hall meeting concerning the park and water needs would be held Thursday, Jan. 18 at 6:30 p.m. at Cain Elementary.

Conaway wrapped up the meeting with encouragement to the members about the growth and development of Whitehouse and they play such an active role in the city's continued success.