THE CONNECTION METRO
Keeping up with Boise
Education & Workforce Development
THIS APRIL’S REGIONAL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE TO EXPLORE SOLUTIONS
Idaho’s 68th Legislative Session THE CHAMBER’S POLICY COMMITTEE IS CLOSELY MONITORING THESE 3 BILLS Meet
2025 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Garrett Lofto, J.R. Simplot Company, Chair
Jim Shipman, Colliers, Chair-Elect
Dan Price, Mountain West Bank, Past Chair
Hart Gilchrist, Intermountain Gas, Treasurer
Matt Walters, Elam & Burke, Of Counsel
Emily Baker, Portman Square Group, At-Large
Rebecca Hupp, Boise Airport, At-Large
Gerald Hunter, Idaho Housing and Finance, At-Large
Bobbi-Jo Meuleman, Boise Metro Chamber, President/CEO
2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Adam Richins, Idaho Power Company
Alison Patt, Thomas Cuisine
Amy Lindgren, Cushing Terrell, LB Chair (Ex-Officio)
Angela Taylor, Indulge Boise/Dignitas Agency. 2025 Visit Boise Chair
April Arnzen, Micron
Chris Roth, St. Luke’s Health System
Christina Hardesty, Amalgamated Sugar Company
David McFadyen, Saint Alphonsus Health System
Dylan Buckland, TalentSpark, BYP Chair (Ex-Officio)
Erin Anderson, Idaho Botanical Gardens
Jeff Caywood, PetIQ
Jennifer Swindell, Idaho Ed News
Jessica Hagan, KTVB News Group
John Colgrove, Albertsons Companies
Kelly Olson, Western States Equipment
Laura Kendall, Velma V. Morrison Center for the Performing Arts
Michael Ballantyne, TOK Commercial
Mike Smith, Lamb Weston
Nate Brazier, Stinker Stores
Neil Nelson, E.S.I.
Paul Zurlo, Blue Cross of Idaho
Todd Gill, United Heritage
Tom Mortell, Hawley Troxell, Policy Committee Chair and BVEP Chair
Tommy Ahlquist, Ahlquist
Editorial Office:
1101 W. Front St., Suite 100, Boise, ID 83702 | (208) 472-5205 Boise Metro Connection (USPS 227-520) is published bi-monthly in January, March, May, July, September, and November by Boise Metro Chamber. Copyright © Boise Metro Chamber, 2025. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Periodical postage paid at Boise, ID 83707.
Postmaster:
Send address changes to: Boise Metro Chamber, P.O. Box 2368, Boise, ID 83701
Chamber membership dues include $12/year subscription.
Publisher & Executive Editor: Bobbi-Jo Meuleman, President & CEO
Amber Hawton-Hill Boise Metro Chamber Senior Marketing & Communications Manager
Stay up-to-date on your city and state's government affairs
Written
by: Tori Thomas - Community and Government Affairs Manager
Dear Readers,
As we continue through the 68th Legislative Session, several key issues have taken center stage, including school choice, tax policy, Medicaid expansion, and transportation funding. The Chamber’s policy committee is closely monitoring bills such as House Bill 25, which increases funding for the Transportation Expansion Congestion Mitigation (TECM) Program, House Bill 39, which establishes a refundable tax credit for school choice, and House Bill 40, which reduces Idaho’s flat income tax rate.
At the state level, JFAC has finalized the FY26 maintenance budget at $12.6 billion and will continue reviewing new spending requests in the coming weeks. Federally, we’re monitoring executive orders that may impact businesses, as well as updates on the Corporate Transparency Act, which is currently on hold.
Boise State’s School of Public Policy recently released its Tenth Annual Statewide Survey, gathering input from 1,000 Idahoans on issues such as taxes, education, housing, healthcare, and elections. Workforce and affordable housing remain top priorities for Idahoans, reflecting ongoing challenges in attracting and retaining talent. These insights help shape conversations around policy decisions and economic development strategies across the state.
As always, to bring something to the Chamber’s attention, or ask a question feel free to reach out at: tthomas@boisechamber.org
Sincerely, Tori Thomas
PS. Scan the first qr code to view my Advocacy Update blog where I further detail the issues above along with highlights throughout this year’s legislative session:
PLUS, tune-in to my Metro Minute podcast to explore federal, state, and local issues with elected officials and other experts.
DEC ’24-JAN ’25 RIBBON CUTTINGS
MEET OUR 2025 CHAMBER AMBASSADORS
CO-PRESIDENT
Melissa Gossage, Complete Office
• Ken Spencer, Zions Bank
EDUCATION CO-CHAIRS
• Michael Shepard, NeighborWorks Boise
• Kristy Massie, ICCU
COMMUNICATIONS CHAIR
Morgyn Peabody, A Better Solution in Home Care
VICE PRESIDENT
• Robin Angemi, Blue Gander Window Cleaning
MEMBERS
Alycin Dodge, D.L. Evans Bank
• Andrea Sanders, Make-A-Wish Idaho
• Candace Carlson, Amherst Madison
• Carole Schroeder, Global Ties Idaho
• Cody Freston, Doctor’s Hospice of Idaho
• Corey Recla, Xpress Plumbing and Construction Solutions
• David Roberts, D.L. Evans Bank
• DeAnna Ruehl, Idaho Press
• Heather Albert, PhD, CFP, New York Life Insurance
• Janalee Schrader, Idaho EdNews
• Jim Borton, Richard’s
• Joseph Corente, ITMS Brokers
• Joyce Little, Keller Williams Real Estate Boise
• Justin Stephens, Secure Pacific
• Kathleen Godfrey, Valley Regional Transit/City Go
• Kirsten Aura, Lotus Boise Corp.
• Kristi Croteau, Arid Club, Inc.
• Lisa Pepin, U.S. Bank
Lynette Hoy, Firetalker PR
Martin Ackerman, SCORE Treasure Valley
• Monique Olson, Safe N Soft Carpet Cleaning Boise
• Nicky Pendleton, Hotel Renegade
• Ron Paucar, Horizon Credit Union
• Sam Cook, High Road PEO
• Savannah Lewis, United Way of Treasure Valley
• Scott Hutchinson, MicroTech Systems
• Shay Smith, Umpqua Bank
• Stacy Miller, TML Commercial
Stacey Moody, Idaho Youth Ranch
Teryn McDonald, Channel 6 News (Scripps Media)
Bundt
Leap Years 12/6
Fresh Clothes Mobile Laundry 12/11
Veterans Association of Real Estate Professionals (VAREP) 12/12
Pella Windows & Doors of Boise 1/17
Wish Granters 1/23
2025 REGIONAL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE: EDUCATION
AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Adhering to decades of tradition, the Chamber’s Regional Leadership Conference, presented by Republic Services, will return April 27- 29, 2025. Hosted at Sun Valley Resort with a beautiful backdrop of Dollar and Bald Mountain, attendees have the a unique opportunity to step away from their daily lives to concentrate on exploring key issues alongside business and community
leaders, educators, non-profits, and elected officials.
This year’s sessions will feature keynotes and panel discussions about the critical intersection of education and industry in building a resilient, sustainable workforce in Idaho. Experts and policymakers will share perspectives on:
• Idaho’s evolving K-12 education
• How our public schools prep graduates for success
• Strategic industry-education partnerships
• Workforce readiness
• Innovative collaborations between businesses and educational institutions
• The role of apprenticeship programs
Fostering talent development
Barriers to workforce growth such as housing, transportation, and childcare
With decision makers attending, a dynamic agenda, networking, and insights, this is an essential opportunity to collaborate on solutions to shape education, build a stronger workforce and influence Idaho’s economic growth
Scan the code to learn about the agenda and speakers as info is released.
2024 conference photos pictured above.
The root of the problem causing homelessness is housing costs. Wages have not kept pace, and more people are living on the line. The cost of renting has increased by 40% in recent years, adding an extra $500 per month for the average renter.
- SENATOR ALI RABE, DISTRICT 16
2025 LEGISLATIVE FORUM: IDAHO’S ECONOMIC OUTLOOK
The Boise Metro Chamber hosted its 2025 Annual Legislative Forum on January 10 at Boise Centre East, bringing together policymakers and business leaders to discuss “ Managing Growth: A Legislative Perspective.” Thomas J. Mortell, of Hawley Troxell, moderated the panel of Sen. Camille Blaylock (D-11), Sen. Ali Rabe (D-16), Rep. Rick Cheatum (D-28), and Rep. Jordan Redman (D-3).
Governor Brad Little opened the event, emphasizing Idaho’s economic strength but acknowledging the challenges of rapid population growth. “Managing growth is a great subject,” he remarked.
“All the alternatives are worse.” He highlighted investments in education, transportation, and workforce housing to keep Idaho affordable for future generations.
Panelists shared district-specific insights, with housing affordability emerging as a key concern. Rep. Redman highlighted a community-led initiative in North Idaho: “To solve the problem with housing, you have to just create more inventory.” Sen. Rabe echoed the need for solutions, stating, “Housing is where jobs go to sleep at night,” stressing the importance of affordable options for workers.
Discussions also touched on infrastructure, economic development, and legislative priorities for 2025. Attendees gained valuable insight into how state leaders plan to address Idaho’s ongoing growth while preserving its quality of life.
Presented by J.R. Simplot Company the event reinforced the Chamber’s role in fostering dialogue between policymakers and the business community.
PRESENTED BY:
Scan the qr code to read the full blog about this event.
CELEBRATING LEADERSHIP BOISE
AND A HALF-CENTURY DEDICATED TO COMMUNITY & GROWTH
Leadership Boise (LB) is celebrating 50 years in May. Created and launched in 1975, LB brings civic/community education, coupled with leadership skill development to mid-to-high level managers, directors and business owners.
Participants are treated to engaging speakers, panel discussions, tours and activities in year one via a day-long session each month (September - May). The year kicks off with a team building, bonding overnight retreat experience at the YMCA Camp at Horsethief Reservoir
In year two of the program, participants become “planners” and work in teams to create and deliver the monthly sessions (for a new class of year one LB professionals).
LB Graduation, held at The Grove Hotel on May 22, 2025, will be a well-earned party, celebrating not only the graduates of the Class of 2025, but years of LB graduates. The event is topped off with the annual Community Leadership Awards, presented by the LB Alumni Association.
SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATIONS NOW FOR:
• DISTINGUISHED LB ALUM
• NONPROFIT EXCELLENCE
• SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
• LB ALUM ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
• LEGACY OF LEADERSHIP
close April 18, 2025*****
Scan the qr code to nominate, purchase tickets and learn more.
WHAT ARE THE TOP FIVE MARKETING PRACTICES FOR OUTREACH AND ENGAGEMENT?
Written By: Amber Hawton-Hill Senior Marketing and Communications Manager
Last week, a colleague from the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives or ACCE (a national organization representing over 1,300 Chambers in the U.S.) asked me a simple but powerful question:
“What advice would you give a CEO about best marketing practices for outreach and engagement?”
After nearly two decades in marketing and advertising, my answer was immediate: “There are no shortcuts. True, lasting engagement isn’t transactional— it’s a relationship. And like any meaningful relationship, it requires commitment, consistency, and authenticity.”
1: Your brand isn’t just your logo. It’s every interaction someone has with your organization— your employees, your social media, your emails, your office environment, your marketing materials, even your mission statement. When all of these elements align, your outreach becomes more effective and your engagement more impactful.
2: As AI continues to streamline our work, one thing remains irreplaceable: authenticity.
DOES YOUR CHAMBER MEMBER
People are drawn to content that feels human. If you genuinely care about your customers or members, believe in your work, and communicate with passion, you’ll attract an audience that doesn’t just support your brand—they’ll advocate for it. These “brand evangelists” are your most valuable customers, growing your reach organically through word-of-mouth and trust.
3: To make the biggest impact, focus on quality over quantity. Don’t post just to post, and don’t launch initiatives that feel like busy work. Instead, create content and experiences that make people pause. Study what works—look at successful events, marketing campaigns, and social posts from peers across the country. Then, tailor those insights to your audience.
4: Outreach and engagement aren’t one-and-done efforts. They require ongoing effort and attention. The best way to refine your approach? Listen. Use surveys and polls to gather feedback, then act on it. Your audience will tell you exactly what they need— if you’re willing to hear them.
Ann Marie Houghtailing wisely said, “Feedback is a free education to excellence. Seek it with sincerity and receive it with grace.”
5: And finally, don’t forget the call to action. Every touch point should guide your audience to the next step, building trust and moving them along their journey with you.
When engagement is intentional and authentic, it’s not just marketing —it’s momentum.
STEP 1: Scan the QR code below and take our short survey.
STEP 2: If your feedback aligns with articles we’re concepting, our writers may reach out for more details!
BUILD YOUR BRAND THROUGH THE CHAMBER’S AUDIENCE:
• 100+ page Boise Valley Spotlight and Membership and Relocation Guide has an annual distribution of 10k.
• Mailed to every existing Chamber member in July, and thereafter, provided in every new member packet.
• Available at the Boise Airport, rooms at Chamber member hotels, the Main Street Bus Station, and the Chamber.
• Posted on our website for viewers to read virtually.
• The only magazine included in our relocation packets sold to visitors, real estate agents, and potential new residents.
CURIOUS ABOUT ADVERTISING? CONTACT SPOTLIGHT@IDAHOREM.COM
Scan the code to tell us how your business is harnessing
WELCOME DECEMBER-JANUARY
IDAHO VETERANS CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
5465 Terra Linda Way Nampa, ID 83687 (208) 917-9977 idahoveterans.org
IDAHO LEGAL AID SERVICES, INC.
1447 S. Tyrell Ln. Boise, ID 83706 (208) 746-7541 idaholegalaid.org
IMPACT THRIFT 4255 Rose Hill St. Boise, ID 83705 (208) 579-2385 impact-thrift.com
LEE’S CANDIES
805 W. Bannock St. Boise, ID 83702 (208) 344-1441 leescandies.com
LEE’S CANDIES
840 S. Vista Ave. Boise, ID 83705 (208) 344-1441 leescandies.com
IDAHO PUBLIC PURCHASING ASSOCIATION
P.O. Box 6512 Boise, ID 83707 (208) 287-7118 nigp-idaho.org
CHILDREN’S HOME COUNSELING SERVICES 1750 W. Front St., 2nd Floor Boise, ID 83702 (208) 343-7797
RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT - BOISE WEST 7303 West Denton St. Boise, ID 83705 (208) 385-9000 marriott.com
HILTON GARDEN INNBOISE SPECTRUM
7699 W. Spectrum St. Boise, ID 83709 (208) 376-1000
IDAHO WOMEN’S BUSINESS CENTER-BUSINESS IMPACT NW
5465 E. Terra Linda Way, Rm. 106 Nampa, ID 83686 (208) 286-1413 businessimpactnw.com
DIRT ROAD DANCING Boise, ID (208) 484-7966 dirtroaddancing.com
THE SANDWICH BAR 1030 S. Broadway Ave. Boise, ID 83706 (208) 637-4738 thesandwichbarboise.com
HAMPTON INN & SUITES BOISE SPECTRUM 7499 W. Overland Rd. Boise, ID 83709 (208) 323-2500
IDAHO EDUCATION ASSOCIATION 620 N. 6th St. Boise, ID 83702 (208) 344-1341 idahoea.org
THREATZERO SOLUTION Meridian, ID (208) 606-4499 threatzero.org
TOM’S TASTY AFFAIRS LLC 23 N. Mingus Ave. Nampa, ID 83651 (208) 713-8305 tomstastyaffairscatering.my.canva.site
BLACK BEAR DINER 7530 W. State St. Boise, ID 83714 (208) 853-3323 blackbeardiner.com
ALSTON CONSTRUCTION 418 S. 9th St. Boise, ID 83702 (208) 899-9396 alstonco.com
SCOGGIN CAPITAL INVESTMENT 1104 E. Warm Springs Ave. Boise, ID 83712 (208) 283-5711
HOLISTIC CENTERED TREATMENT 3295 W. Elder St., Ste. 117 Boise, ID 83705 (208) 579-2407 HolisticCenteredTreatment.com
BYTAGIG OF IDAHO 1243 E. Iron Eagle Dr., Ste. 110 Eagle, ID 83616 (208) 314-1181 bytagig.com
WATKINS DISTRIBUTING
2240 S. Cole Rd., Ste. 110 Boise, ID 83709 (208) 293-5501 watkinsdistributing.com
DECEMBER-JANUARY NEW MEMBERS!
ROBERTSON’S, LLC
2251 E. Lanark St. Meridian, ID 83642 (208) 562-1360
MORTENSEN INSURANCE AGENCY
1775 W. State St., Ste. 277 Boise, ID 83702 (208) 972-6007
BPR COMPANIES
1555 W. Shoreline Dr. Boise, ID 83702 (602) 228-8488 bprcompanies.com
PRICE 4 LIMO BOISE
990 Stinson Way #201 West Palm Beach, FL 33411 (866) 265-5479 price4limo.com
SAWTOOTH VALUE ADVISORY LLC 1137 W. River St. Boise, ID 83702 (208) 470-6550 sawtoothvaluation.com
TOP SHELF STORAGE AND JUNK REMOVAL
1755 N. Westgate Dr., Ste. 110 Boise, ID 83704 (208) 593-2877 topshelfstorage.com
PICKLE AND PINE DESIGNS LLC Boise, ID (208) 703-8332
BOISE HUNTER HOMES
923 S. Bridgeway Pl. Eagle, ID 83616 (208) 577-5501 boisehunterhomes.com
THE JAMES KITCHEN & BAR
1030 S. Broadway Ave., 2nd Floor Boise, ID 83702 (208) 637-4738 thejamesboise.com
EMERALD SMILES DENTISTRY
675 N. Milwaukee St., Ste. 110 Boise, ID 83704 (208) 593-3221 emeraldsmilesdentistry.com
VIKING PLUMBING
755 Meadowland Dr. Boise, ID 83713 (208) 273-3481 vikingplumbingboise.com
FORTIFY RISK MANAGEMENT LLC Meridian, ID (208) 761-1636 fortifyriskmgmt.com
INTERSTATE ADVANCED MATERIALS
3562 S. TK Ave. Boise, ID 83705 (208) 322-4400 interstateam.com
IDAHO CUSTOM LIFTS & ELEVATORS
1899 E. Melwood St. Meridian, ID 83642 (208) 890-2983 idahocustomelevators.com
IDAHO TRUCKING ASSOCIATION 3405 E. Overland Rd., Ste. 175 Meridian, ID 83642 (208) 342-3521 idtrucking.org
ASPEN CREEK WEALTH
Eagle, ID (208) 738-6445 aspencreekwealth.com
MR. ELECTRIC OF MERIDIAN
1520 S. Rackham Way, Ste. 300 Meridian, ID 83642 (208) 280-6670
WITH HONEY LLC
Boise, ID (775) 721-5750 withhoneycoffee.com
MARCO’S PIZZA CALDWELL
2609 S 10th Ave., Ste. 105 Caldwell, ID 83605 (208) 504-3555
MARCO’S PIZZA KUNA
1200 N Meridian Rd., Ste. 130 Kuna, ID 83634 (208) 506-2300
MARCO’S PIZZA TEN MILE
4865 N Ten Mile Rd., Ste. 150 Meridian, ID 83646 (208) 804-0003 marcos.com
MARCO’S PIZZA OVERLAND
3135 E Overland Rd. Meridian, ID 83642 (208) 992-3800
VF LAW
660 E. Franklin Rd., Ste. 220 Meridian, ID 83642 (208) 629-4567
PRESENTED BY:
DECEMBER 2024- JANUARY 2025
PHOTO CORNER
TAG US IN YOUR SOCIAL POSTS FOR A CHANCE TO BE FEATURED! THEN ADD #BMCSHARE TO INDICATE WE HAVE YOUR PERMISSION
team at December’s Start-ups & Suds at Clubhound
In January, the BVEP, Visit Boise, and Chamber teams were treated to a delicious lunch at Garibaldi’s Mexican Restaurant.
In December, BVEP, Visit Boise, and Chamber staff wrapped up the close of 2024 with a spectacular celebration lunch at Chandlers Prime Steaks & Fine Seafood
Interior Environments hosted the final 2024 Business After Hours in December. Attendees networked, enjoyed apps, and sipped on complimentary beverages while exploring their beautiful new showroom.
Leadership Boise Academy (LBA) VP, Colette Lentsch of Hillcrest Bank, is pictured with Youth Ambassadors from the 2024 LBA Class and the 2025 LBA Class at Setting the Stage held at Idaho State University.
Associated Taxpayers of Idaho and Boise Metro Chamber co-hosted a night of reminiscing, networking and celebrating wins in 2024 during the annual Holiday Reception with Elected Officials at the Boise Centre on December 4, 2024. The event was presented by Idaho Housing and Finance Association.
Johnson May, a full service law firm specializing in Business, Real Estate, Bankruptcy, Estate Planning, and Family Law matters, hosted January’s Business After Hours
LIFE MOVES PRETTY FAST
CONSIDER A BRIDGE HOME LOAN!
Want
No Monthly Payments No
Up to 12 Months Of Financing Available
