Chamber Success Triggers Return to Regular Meetings
From Zero to 25+ Members: Growth Demands Community Input
The Hulett Chamber of Commerce resumes regular monthly meetings this month, marking a remarkable milestone in what may be the most dramatic organizational turnaround in recent Crook County history.
Unprecedented Growth Story
Just six months ago, the Hulett Chamber of Commerce had zero active members and faced potential dissolution. Today, with over 25 businesses choosing Chamber partnership and national recognition through Yellowstone National Park Journal, the organization has not only survived – it's thriving at unprecedented levels.
"The growth has been so rapid and the opportunities so significant that we need regular member input to guide our decisions," said Chamber Director Bunny Engberg. "We've gone from wondering if we had a future to needing member voices to help shape that future responsibly."
First Meeting August 28
The Chamber held its first regular meeting on Thursday, August 28th, at 7:00 PM in the Roosevelt Room at Devils Tower Golf Club. The one-hour format reflects the organization's commitment to respecting busy schedules while addressing important community business.
"We're scheduling these meetings because success brings responsibility," explained Chamber Board Member Deb Bears. "With businesses actively choosing to relocate to Hulett and visitor traffic at record levels, we need member input on how to manage growth while preserving what makes our community special."
Member Voices Shape Future
Recent weeks have seen a steady stream of new Chamber members, from established regional operations like Besler's Cadillac Ranch and Stone House Saloon to startup dreams like Reveille Bakery. The diverse membership reflects Hulett's position as both a destination for entrepreneurs and a gateway to major regional attractions.
The monthly meetings will address how the Chamber can best support this growth while maintaining the small-town character that attracts both businesses and visitors.
"Located just 9 miles from Devils Tower, where over 500,000 visitors gather annually, Hulett has unique opportunities," noted Chamber Secretary Connie Lindmier. "Our meetings will focus on how we welcome responsible growth that sustains our lifestyle while supporting local businesses."
Open to All
While Chamber membership provides voting rights, the meetings welcome all community members interested in Hulett's future. Agendas will be available by emailing info@visithulett.com and will be announced through Hulett Happenings and the Chamber's Facebook page.
The August 28th meeting will establish the format for ongoing monthly meetings scheduled for the last Thursday of each month. Topics will include Chamber initiatives, community partnerships, and strategic planning for continued growth.
Remarkable Turnaround
The Chamber's transformation from near-dissolution to thriving organization represents more than business success – it demonstrates how community commitment and strategic vision can create lasting positive change.
From zero members to national partnerships, from quiet dissolution to weekly newspaper features celebrating new businesses, the Hulett Chamber of Commerce has become a model for rural business development and community cooperation.
The August 28th meeting begins at 7:00 PM at Devils Tower Golf Club's Roosevelt Room. For meeting agendas or membership information, go to www.VisitHulett.com, contact info@visithulett.com or call 605-722-0004.
**Upcoming Schedule**
Regular meetings will continue on the last Thursday of each month at 7:00 PM:
**2025:** August 28, September 25, October 23, December 4
**2026:** January 22, February 26, March 26, April 23, May 28, June 25, July 23, August 27, September 24, October 22, December 3 (first Thursday of that month)
All meetings follow a structured one-hour format covering reports, business items, and community planning. Future meeting locations and agendas will be announced in advance.
The Hulett Chamber of Commerce is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation serving the Northern Black Hills business community.