09/22/2026
Chamber Members,
The City of Lander is deciding how to use the remaining half-cent economic development funds, and the Chamber has been following the discussion. Recently, Council members asked the Lander Chamber of Commerce to offer a recommendation.
The problem is bigger than how to divide the money. This approach to economic development puts government in the position of deciding which projects deserve support, rather than allowing investment decisions to be made through free market forces.
We believe the more important question is not simply, “What should we spend this money on?”
It is: “How do we create the conditions for Lander’s economy to work well?”
Are we reducing barriers to investment? Are we making it easier for existing small businesses to operate, grow, hire, and serve their customers? Are permitting, zoning, and regulatory processes clear and predictable? How do we encourage local investors to reinvest in Lander? How do we make it easier for people to build, hire, innovate, and take risks here?
The Chamber believes economic development should start with the basics: a level playing field, clear rules, efficient essential services, and a business climate where companies compete for customers and investment, not government favor.
Based on what we continue to hear from our membership, Lander still has work to do on those basics.
Let’s start there.
We encourage Chamber members to attend tonight’s Council work session and hear the discussion firsthand.
- Brian Fabel
Lander Chamber of Commerce
