Revamped Kamas Chamber plans to build business community, support local economy

High Star Ranch Fall Festival 2024. Photo: Town Lift // Randi Sidman-Moore

KAMAS VALLEY, Utah — Josh McReavy, newly appointed chair of the Kamas Valley Chamber of Commerce, aims to revitalize the chamber to create stronger community connections among businesses and help residents access essential services locally. McReavy took on the role after the chamber’s initial launch struggled to gain traction. Now, he’s working to rebuild the organization, focusing on supporting the local economy.

“We have over 240 business owners in our valley,” McReavy said, emphasizing that many residents may not realize the breadth of local services available. He mentioned unique examples, such as a dry cleaning service provided by the Red Hanger Cleaners owner who lives locally, making drop-off and pickup convenient for the valley’s residents.

The chamber’s primary goals are to foster business networking and to boost awareness of local resources and services. “People just need to be together and network,” McReavy stated. Additionally, he noted the high cost of living in Summit County as a significant factor pushing many locals to work outside the area, adding, “How do we help each other’s businesses grow so we can live here?”

McReavy also highlighted Kamas Valley’s different economic dynamics from Park City’s, where tourism plays a more significant role. Instead, Kamas Valley, known as the “Gateway to the Uintas,” benefits from outdoor recreation-based tourism, such as camping and snowmobiling, which supports local businesses, including gas stations and convenience stores.

“We want to build trust back,” McReavy said, announcing that a kickoff meeting will be held on Nov. 14 in Oakley to share the chamber’s vision and connect with local business owners. “I cannot overstate the hard work that Paul Evans as vice chair, Gracia Eisman as treasurer, and Heidi King as secretary have been doing to help get this off the ground,” McReavy added.

The chamber also still has one board seat available, which will be discussed at the first meeting. McReavy asserts the chamber’s commitment to building a network that fosters a strong community where residents can “thrive by working locally,” envisioning a future where people don’t need to leave the valley for essential services and work.