Monroe Chat

Per Middletown Journal :

MONROE — The Chamber of Commerce Serving Middletown, Monroe and Trenton has regained a former member.

The Monroe City Council by a 5-2 vote Tuesday, Jan. 12 approved renewing its membership with the chamber. Councilwoman Suzi Rubin and Councilman Bob Kelley voted against the measure after the city unanimously agreed not to partner with the chamber in December 2008.

In 2008, Kelley recommended the city not renew its membership because he said he did not believe the city’s needs were being met.

“I don’t think the city is served well at all by being part of the chamber. In the five or six years I’ve been a part of council, there’s been little if any cooperation between the city and the chamber,” he said.

“As long as what the city wants to do is conducive to what the chamber wants then there’s some cooperation there, but if it’s anything that the city pushes back on ... it’s going to be their way, period.”

Rubin agreed.

“Basically, the chamber has taken several positions that are contrary to Monroe’s interest, and that’s the main reason,” she said about why she voted against rejoining.

Several years ago, she said, the Atrium Medical Center was considering Monroe as its home, but the chamber took a position that it should be in Middletown.

“I think on controversial issues they should at least remain neutral. I think they do a fine job, I just didn’t see a reason to support the people who are not supporting what we’re doing,” she said.

I'm glad Atrium didn't end up in Monroe. I'd be afraid I'd need medical treatment and, instead of getting it, they'd squad me to Atrium!!!!