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Happy President's Day
" I hold the maxim no less applicable to public than to private affairs, that honesty is the best policy." - George Washington, 1796
In this issue of the Business Advocate
• Erica Bodden name Chamber Director of Advocacy
• Altoona Plan Commission acts on new Zoning code, City Council next
• Menomonie Mayoral primary on Tuesday
• Chamber award winners announced at "Eau What a Night" Annual Meeting
• WI Legislature nearing finish line as Chippewa Valley Rally heads for Madison
• Gov Evers' last State of the State address is Tuesday night
• January jobs report better than expected
• Food for thought
Note on article links: A subscription is required for those marked with "$"
Publications known to have article limits or other access restrictions for non-subscribers are marked with "+"
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Last day to register....
32nd Annual Chippewa Valley Rally - Thursday, February 19
Organized by the Chippewa Valley Chamber Alliance representing
the Chippewa Falls, Eau Claire and Menomonie Chambers of Commerce
This annual event is a unique opportunity to bring a collective voice on regional and state economic priorities to Madison all at one time.
Click here to see the 2026 Issues Book.
Event information:
32nd Annual Chippewa Valley Rally
• Thursday, February 19, Madison
Click here for details and to register
Eggs & Issues: Altoona's innovative housing initiatives
Addressing housing supply and affordability has long been a policy priority for the City of Altoona, already known for its innovative Solis Circle affordable housing community. At this edition of Eggs & Issues, we'll learn how the city plans to deploy the $6 million affordable housing fund created from its recent tax increment district closure, discuss plans underway for its 80 acre east side development to include a new model for housing at attainable price points, and look at aspects of its new zoning code designed to achieve housing goals. City leaders will detail the 12 principles guiding their efforts and the importance of key partnerships in achieving success. The discussion will include Mayor Brendan Pratt, City Administrator Mike Golat, Grant and Housing Program Manager Julian Emerson, and co-owner of C&M Home Builders & Real Estate Cody Filipczak.
Event information:
Eggs & Issues: Altoona's innovative housing initiatives
• Friday, Feb 27, 7:30-9:00 a.m., River Prairie Center, Altoona
Click here for details and to register
Related news:
Altoona considers no-interest home repair loan program for residents (WQOW News 18)
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Erica Bodden named Eau Claire Chamber Director of Advocacy
Current Director Scott Rogers retires Feb 27 after 12 years
The Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce has announced that Erica Bodden has joined the organization as its new Director of Advocacy.
Erica is no stranger to the Chamber or to public service. Over the past year, she has worked closely with our team coordinating statewide outreach for the National Civics Bee, building relationships with schools, educators, and community partners across the region. Her work ethic, professionalism, and ability to connect with people quickly stood out from day one.
A student at the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, Erica is completing her degree in Political Science with a minor in History and a Legal Studies Certificate, graduating this spring with academic distinction. Her background includes experience with the Eau Claire County Circuit Court, the Wisconsin State Legislature, and UW–Eau Claire’s Study Abroad Program—giving her a strong foundation in policy, research, and constituent engagement.
Beyond her academic and professional achievements, Erica brings a people-first mindset and a genuine passion for civic engagement, leadership, and community service. She is committed to ensuring the voice of business is heard and that our advocacy efforts continue to reflect the needs and priorities of our investors.
“From the moment Erica joined our team, it was clear she had both the heart and the skill set for this work,” said David Minor, President & CEO of the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce. “She understands the importance of listening, building relationships, and advocating thoughtfully on behalf of our business community. We’re excited to see her step into this leadership role.”
The Chamber's current Senior Director of Governmental Affairs, Scott Rogers, is retiring on February 27, after 12 years in the role.
"The Chamber's Advocacy program is in good hands with Erica," noted Rogers, "It's also helpful that we have about three weeks to work together for a smooth transition."
Erica can be contacted at: bodden@eauclairechamber.org
Altoona Plan Commission advances zoning update
The City of Altoona is nearing completion of its zoning code update. Last Tuesday, its Plan Commission met and advanced the proposed ordinance to the City Council, which meets on February 26.
More information:
Zoning Code Rewrite website (City of Altoona)
Altoona zoning code changes head to city council (WQOW News 18)
Meeting this week...
Full public meetings schedule
Altoona Board of Education
• Monday, Feb 16, 6:30 p.m. Meeting information
Eau Claire Board of Education
• Monday, Feb 16, 7 p.m. Meeting information
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