Chairman of the Board
Heather Rimato, Rimato Insurance
2025 Slogan
“Prosperity Through Partnership”
Mission Statement
Provide unified support and promotion of the Brazosport Community for economic prosperity.
Vision Statement
The center of influence for a prosperous community.
Community Issues Division
Vice Chairman Neldia Ahlquist, Neldal Insurance Agency
Brazosport Professionals Network
Anne Bartlett, Brazosport College
This committee provides professionals with the opportunity to focus on leadership and business development, helping them enhance their skills and strategies. This initiative is designed to foster success, excellence and innovation, empowering leaders within our community to drive positive change and growth.
Safetytown Coordinating Committee
Barbara Franklin & Lucy Pendon
Objective: To teach young children having completed kindergarten, the importance of safety in various environments through interactive lessons, hands-on activities and discussions. The goal is to empower children with the knowledge and skills they need to stay safe at home and in the community.
Shop Local Weekend
A three-day fun-filled event to promote shopping locally with Chamber members. Held in June, participants get to enjoy a free continental breakfast, a free shopping bag and a chance to win $1,000 cash.
Shop Local First
Support Local Businesses by shopping in your community! Buying locally strengthens the local economy allowing them to grow, create jobs and succeed, benefiting everyone in the area. Shop locally and help our business thrive.
Convention and Tourism Division
Vice Chairman Nancy Wollam, Representative Cody Vasut’s Office
Lodging & Attractions Committee
Coordinate meetings throughout the year made up of tourist related businesses and organizations to exchange information and to cross-promote attractions.
Economic Development Division
Vice Chairman Joe Ripple, Brazoria County Flood Plain Director
Government Affairs Committee
Ravi Singhania, Port Commissioner and Nancy Wollam, Representative Cody Vasut’s Office
Stay updated on local, state and federal legislation affecting our business community and recommend appropriate action to the Chamber Board of Directors.
Transportation Committee
Jordan Strother, First State Bank
Meet with representatives from TxDOT, Texas Gulf Coast Regional Airport, Brazoria County Engineer’s office and Port Freeport. This collaboration will allow a comprehensive review of transportation, signage and infrastructure needs in the region. Also, review options to bring a cost effective and time efficient transit service to our community that will connect to medical destinations in Houston and the surrounding area.
Membership Division
Vice Chairman Jeff Fischels, H-E-B
The Ambassadors
Neldia Ahlquist, Neldal Insurance
Serve as the public relations arm of the Chamber at ribbon-cutting ceremonies and various Chamber events throughout the year. Additionally, enhancing the Chamber’s image and fostering positive relationships throughout the community.
Leadership Task Force
Neldia Ahlquist, Neldal Insurance Agency; Jesse Glatz, Associate Broker TBT Real Estate & Jordan Strother, First State Bank
Conduct the 2025 Leadership Brazosport Program designed to identify and cultivate the leadership potential of individuals in the Brazosport area. It aims to prepare them to take on future leadership roles within the community. This 5-month long program provides participants with a learning experience that focuses on critical community issues, leadership development and networking opportunities.
Membership Luncheons
Joe Ripple, Brazoria County Flood Plain Director
Present luncheons throughout the year with speakers addressing relevant issues for Chamber members and our business community that fosters networking and education.
Public Affairs Division
Vice Chairman Judge Jack Brown, Pct. 1, Place 1
Brazoria County Day Support Committee
Sandra Shaw, President & CEO, Brazosport Chamber
Help Plan and conduct the Brazoria County Day in Austin known as the “The World’s Largest Shrimp Cocktail” in conjunction with the Economic Development Alliance for Brazoria County. This event is held at the Branch Park Pavilion on February 25, 2025. Invitations are sent to all state legislators and state agencies to attend.
Ladies Luncheon
Plan and conduct an impactful annual luncheon focused on topics of importance and concerns for women in our community.
Mayors and City Managers Meetings
L.G. “Butch” Murrell, Coastal Machine & Mechanical
Mayors & City Managers from the eight cities in the Brazosport area meet quarterly to discuss municipal activities and needs. These meetings are designed to strengthen communication and collaboration between the cities and the Brazosport Chamber. They share updates, address common challenges and explore opportunities for joint initiatives which helps ensure the cities work together effectively, fostering regional growth and address shared priorities.
National Day of Prayer
Gerald Roznovsky, Mayor of Lake Jackson.
In Conjunction with the Brazosport Ministerial Alliance, prayer sessions are planned and conducted on National Day of Prayer throughout the Brazosport Area.
Organizational Division
David Winder, Freeport LNG
Dinner & Auction
Conduct a Dinner & Auction on August 7, 2025. The Dinner & Auction is the Brazosport Chamber’s premier fundraising event of the year. The night will combine a delicious dinner with an exciting auction featuring unique and exclusive items. As the Chamber’s sole major fundraiser, the event’s success is vital for supporting the organization’s initiatives, local business growth and community development.
Awards Luncheon
Coordinate a luncheon recognizing the contributions of the Outgoing Chairman of the Board and welcoming the incoming Chairman of the Board. Additionally honoring the Outstanding Man & Woman of the Year, Ambassador of the Year & Business Partner of the Year. Scheduled for February 19, 2025.
State of the Community
Joe Ripple, Brazoria County Flood Plain Director
Plan and coordinate a luncheon in October to provide speakers with insights on various sectors of the Brazosport economy.
Holiday Tour of Homes
Jeannette Merritt, Integrity Mortgage
Host a tour of some of Brazosport’s finest and most unique homes on December 7, 2025. The Brazosport Chamber welcomes everyone on this special holiday tour. Each home is beautifully adorned with Christmas decorations and a wonderful way to begin the Christmas Season.
