Ask Jenks with Donna Ogez

The "Ask Jenks" series recently featured City Counselor Donna Ogez, offering insights into her role and the city's operations. In this episode, Ogez tackled a common question from Jenks citizens: the distinction and relationship between the Jenks Chamber of Commerce and the City of Jenks. She clarified how these two important entities work both independently and collaboratively for the community's benefit.

Meet Counselor Donna Ogez

In a recent "Ask Jenks" chat, we got to know Donna Ogez, a City Counselor for Jenks. She's been serving the community since 2019, making this her sixth year on the council. Her ward, Ward 5, covers the area south of the Creek Turnpike all the way down to 131st Street, on the east side of Elm.

Before her time as a counselor, Donna had a pretty impressive career in finance. She spent over 35 years in the field, with the last 15 years at Hilty. Her work involved a lot of travel, taking her across the country, to Canada, and even Puerto Rico. It sounds like she had a big, busy job before joining the city council.

Are They The Same? City Versus Chamber

One question that comes up a lot from Jenks citizens is whether the Jenks Chamber of Commerce is the same as the City of Jenks. It's a good question, and even some folks on the city council have wondered about it. The simple answer is no, they are not the same. They are two completely different groups. However, they do work together, especially when it comes to growing the local economy.

Understanding The Jenks Chamber of Commerce

So, what exactly is the Jenks Chamber of Commerce? It's a 501(c)6 organization, which means it's a non-profit group made up of local businesses and other organizations. It's important to remember that the Chamber is not a government entity.

The Chamber is run by a 13-member board of directors. These directors set the rules and goals for the organization. They also hire the president, who then brings on staff to handle the day-to-day work.

The main goal of the Jenks Chamber is to help the local economy thrive. This includes:

• Driving economic development: They want to see businesses grow and new ones come to Jenks.

• Boosting community vitality: Making Jenks a lively and attractive place.

• Promoting tourism: Encouraging people to visit and spend money in Jenks.

• Business recruitment: Bringing new businesses to the area.

• Business retention: Helping existing businesses stay and succeed.

• Business expansion: Supporting businesses that want to get bigger.

• Leadership programs: They oversee programs like Leadership Jenks, which helps develop local leaders.

• Hosting events: They put on big festivals in the city, plus smaller monthly events for networking within and outside the community.

All these efforts help bring in more tax money for the city, which then helps pay for things like fixing roads, hiring police officers, and supporting the fire department.

The City of Jenks' Role

In contrast to the Chamber, the City of Jenks is a government entity. Its main job is to provide essential public services to the community. This includes things like:

• Police services

• Fire department operations

• Street improvements and maintenance

• Issuing permits

• Managing zoning regulations

As a city, its focus is on these core services. City staff typically don't organize large public festivals or regular networking events for businesses. That's where the partnership with the Chamber comes in handy.

How They Work Together

Even though they're different, the Chamber and the City of Jenks have a strong working relationship. They often get together to talk about economic development and where the city should focus its growth efforts.

The Chamber is usually the one that drives the economic development side of things. They're out there actively recruiting new businesses, helping current ones stay, and supporting their expansion. The City, on the other hand, works closely with the Chamber to make sure these goals are met. They sit at the table together, share information, and coordinate their efforts. It's a partnership where each group plays a specific role to help Jenks grow and prosper.

Key Takeaways

• The Jenks Chamber of Commerce is a private organization for businesses.

• The City of Jenks is the local government.

• They partner on economic growth and development.

• The Chamber focuses on business support, recruitment, and community events.

• The City focuses on providing essential public services like police, fire, and infrastructure.

Where To Find More Information

If you want to learn more about either of these important groups, here's where you can go:

• For the Jenks Chamber of Commerce: Visit their website at jenkschamber.com.

• For the City of Jenks: Check out their website at jenks.com or give them a call at 918-299-5883.