Chamber officers face challenges of growth, economy

Bayview’s Chamber of Commerce experienced a rebirth last week, as old board of directors and officers chose not to run for re-election. A whole new slate was installed, starting with Bob Prince as president.

Prince moved to Bayview about two years ago from Hayden Lake, where he served as mayor. Vice-president is Cindy Grandy, a longtime contributor to the community.

Linda Williams, administrator for the Bayview Water and Sewer District was elected secretary, a position for which she is quite experienced. Jeanne Bjergo is the new treasurer. Bjergo, along with her husband, Scott, own and operate the Bayview Mercantile. “Bear” Rose is the member-at-large on the board.

Many hope that this new start will be the harbinger of better times, as Bayview strives to find its way into the new era of heavy development and growth, something some are uncomfortable with.

Prince brings a vast knowledge and administrative ability with him due to his stint as mayor of Hayden Lake. We can expect some changes as he plows new ground. With the collapse of the real estate market, along with tightening financial markets, developers here and elsewhere are at a standstill. Those few projects, such as the condos out at Vista Bay Marina, are the only signs of life these days.

The developers of what used to be the Bayview Trailer Park, were not able to obtain financing for the ambitious motel/condo project they had taken through to the permit process. The view lots developed by Chris and Dick Hansen, sit forlorn, waiting for custom home buyers to arrive. A wait that could be substantial, as the economy spins out of control.

•Global warming has reared its ugly head this week with an Arctic blast descending upon us. The 15-day forecast shows high temperatures staying below freezing, though moderating a bit starting around Saturday. Snow is predicted for most days through the Dec. 29 and perhaps into the new year. Originally predicted to be an average winter, weather guessers are hedging their bets now.

Told that no two years in a row of heavy snow have ever happened just shows how the law of averages can jump up and bite you.

Perhaps the most serious situation here in Bayview for the moment is the lack of winter residents. Part of this, perhaps most, is due to the eviction of the mobile home village at Vista Bay and the old 32-lot Bayview Trailer Park. Couple that with the lack of replacements for these residents in newer construction, has left this village almost a ghost town.

Businesses are struggling to keep their heads above water, with the downturn in the economy along with the reduced population. Prince, newly elected Chamber president, when asked of his plans for the immediate future said, “Fasten your seat belts. It’s going to be a wild ride.” Everyone heard from so far, is excited about the new slate. Prince, with a gleam in his eye appears to be ready for action.