Chairman of the Board
David Winder, Freeport LNG
2026 Slogan
“Growth Through Connection”
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 Mark Holian, Gulf Coast Auto
Brazosport Professionals Network
Anne Bartlett, Brazosport College & Jesse Glatz, Icon Real Estate Services
This committee offers Chamber members the opportunity to connect, share ideas, and grow their business. Through focused networking and business development opportunities, participants can build valuable relationships and promote their services directly to fellow Chamber members.
Safetytown Coordinating Committee
Barbara Franklin & Lucy Pendon
Teach young children who have 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
This is a three-day fun-filled event to promote shopping with Chamber members. Held June 19-21, shoppers get a free continental breakfast, a free shopping bag and a chance to win $1,000 cash. Members only need to be open for business at least one of the days and provide a receipt to their customers.
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 that bring together tourism-related businesses and organizations to share information, collaborate, and cross-promote local 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
This committee works to improve local transportation and infrastructure by collaborating with TxDOT, the Texas Gulf Coast Regional Airport, Brazoria County, and Port Freeport on signage, road projects, and other critical needs. The committee also explores options for cost-effective, time-efficient transit services connecting the community to medical destinations in Houston and the surrounding region.
Membership Division
Vice Chairman Neldia Ahlquist, Neldal Insurance Agency
The Ambassadors
Neldia Ahlquist, Neldal Insurance
Serve as representatives of the Chamber, helping celebrate member milestones through ribbon cuttings and Chamber events throughout the year. As the Chamber’s public relations team, Ambassadors build connections, support local businesses, and promote community engagement.
Leadership Task Force
Neldia Ahlquist, Neldal Insurance Agency; Jesse Glatz, Icon Real Estate Services & Jordan Strother, First State Bank
Conduct the 2027 Leadership Brazosport Class, a program dedicated to developing the community’s future leaders. 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 engaging speakers who address issues impacting Chamber members and the business community, while fostering 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 at the Branch Park Pavilion on February 9, 2027. Invitations are sent to all state legislators and state agencies to attend.
Legacy Luncheon
Honor and celebrate longtime local businesses that have been valued Brazosport Area Chamber members for more than 50 years, recognizing their enduring contributions to our community and economy.
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
In conjunction with the Brazosport Ministerial Alliance, plan and conduct meaningful prayer sessions on National Day of Prayer, May 7, 2026, throughout the Brazosport Area fostering unity and community spirit.
Organizational Division
Tammie Bell, TBT Real Estate
Dinner & Auction
Conduct a Dinner & Auction on August 6, 2026. This is the Chamber’s premier fundraising event. 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
Organize a luncheon recognizing the contributions of the outgoing Chairman of the Board, welcoming the incoming Chairman, and honoring the Outstanding Man and Woman of the Year, Ambassador of the Year, and Business Partner of the Year. Scheduled for February 18, 2026.
State of the Community
Joe Ripple, Brazoria County Flood Plain Director
Plan and coordinate an annual luncheon to provide speakers with insights on various sectors of the Brazosport economy. Scheduled for October 15,2026.
Holiday Tour of Homes
Jeannette Merritt, Integrity Mortgage
Host a tour of some of Brazosport’s finest and most unique homes on December 6, 2026. The 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.
