Dear Chamber Members and Community Supporters,

We know many of you are concerned about the City of Bishop’s recent decision to evict the Chamber from our longtime home at 690 N. Main Street. This transition has been challenging, but our mission remains unchanged: To promote business, tourism, and responsible recreation for the benefit of our entire community.

We are committed to transparency and collaboration with the City of Bishop—because we believe we are stronger when we work together.

We sincerely appreciate the outpouring of support from those who’ve attended council meetings, written letters, and reached out personally. Many have asked us to clarify certain points raised by the City. While we do not wish to engage in disputes, we believe it is important to provide accurate information.

Frequently Asked Questions & Clarifications:

When did the City decide to evict the Chamber?

The decision was made during the City Council’s Strategic Planning & Budget Workshop on May 8, 2025. The matter was not on the agenda, and the Chamber Executive Director was not present for the discussion nor was the Executive Director or the Board of Directors notified of the un-agendized item to be discussed.

Did the Chamber know the City planned to demolish the building?

Yes. In summer 2023, Councilmember Garcia informed us that the City did not intend to invest in necessary repairs. We inquired if the Chamber could fund repairs and were told it was not an option. At that time, we began working collaboratively on a plan to relocate the Visitor Center to a nearby vacant lot owned by LADWP. This plan was in active discussion until June 4, when the City Administrator delivered the official eviction notice and informed us the plan had been scrapped.

Did the Chamber want to leave the current location?

No. We would have preferred to remain. The A-Frame building is an iconic and strategically located site. However, once the City committed to demolishing the building, we made the responsible decision to purchase a new location to avoid disruption to our services.

Is a physical Information Center still necessary in the digital age?

Absolutely. Our team provides personalized, expert service that enhances the visitor experience, often leading to longer stays and increased local spending. This benefits local businesses and directly supports the City’s sales and TOT revenues.

We invite City Councilmembers and others to visit the center and witness firsthand the value and volume of services we provide.

Is the Chamber a financial burden on the City?

No. We are a key economic development partner. Far from being a cost, the Chamber helps generate revenue that supports essential City services, including public safety and youth programs. Investing in the Chamber is an investment in the City’s economic health.

Should the Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau be co-located?

Yes. These are distinct but complementary functions—supporting businesses and attracting visitors. They share staff, leadership, and infrastructure, making co-location both practical and cost-effective. Separating them would undermine efficiency, be cost-prohibitive, and impact the quality of services.

Looking Ahead…

After months of planning, the Bishop Chamber of Commerce has officially purchased a new location at 200 & 218 South Main Street. This will soon house the Bishop Information Center and Chamber offices. The property currently includes three respected tenants—Sierra Security Systems, Kalin Legal Solutions, and Sierra Mountain Center—and we’re excited to be joining this vibrant downtown hub.

While renovations are underway, the Bishop Information Center will remain open at the A-Frame. We anticipate several more months in the current location and appreciate your continued patience and support.

We fully agree with those who see the A-Frame as a community treasure. While we do not control its fate, we join those who hope it can be saved. Should the City and community restore it in the future, there may be opportunities for the Information Center to return—but this decision rests with the City of Bishop, not the Chamber.

Moving Forward Together…

This moment brings a mix of sadness and optimism. We are leaving a beloved home of more than 50 years, but we look forward to a future full of promise—still on Main Street, still serving Bishop, and still doing what we do best: supporting our businesses, welcoming visitors, and strengthening our community. When we succeed in our mission, the whole community benefits.

We are incredibly grateful for your continued support!

Your encouragement and engagement mean the world to us during this time of transition. Many of you have asked, “How can we help?” — and we’re so thankful for your willingness to lend a hand. Please stay tuned! We will be sharing opportunities for community support as we prepare our new space and move operations. We can’t wait to welcome you to our new location soon!

With sincere appreciation,

The Staff and Board Members of the Bishop Chamber of Commerce & Information Center

Welcome Highpointers!

Photo: Kenny & Donna Pokora and Mark Wollbrink stopped in to see us at the Bishop Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday and we’re looking forward to meeting other club members!

We’re thrilled to welcome the Highpointers Club to Bishop this week! This passionate group promotes climbing to the highest point in each U.S. state, while also fostering education, preservation, and conservation of these unique and inspiring locations.

Since 2019, the Bishop Chamber staff has proudly supported the club’s event organizers by helping coordinate meeting facilities, catering, lodging, and other logistics.

This week, about 180 club members from across the country are here to summit Boundary Peak—Nevada’s highest point. Some members may also take on Mt. Whitney, the highest point in the contiguous U.S.

In addition to their climbs, the group will be enjoying social events and exploring our community. You’ll likely spot members around town—please join us in giving them a warm Bishop welcome!

Photo: Kenny & Donna Pokora and Mark Wollbrink stopped in to see us at the Bishop Chamber of Commerce on Tuesday and we’re looking forward to meeting other club members!