Business Community Celebrates YES for both Coeur d’Alene and Lakeland Public Schools

It is with great joy and gratitude that we celebrate the successful passing of the levies for both Coeur d’Alene and Lakeland Public Schools! These victories demonstrate the power of community engagement in voting for crucial matters that impact our schools, businesses, and, most importantly, our students. We are so grateful for the phenomenal leaders, employees, and volunteers who worked tirelessly to educate us on the facts and get the right information out to the public. We also want to thank and give credit to all of you who took the time to cast your votes and support education.

Just a few short months ago after the levies failed on the first go around, fear and uncertainty were taking a toll on our region. I remember trying to find words of comfort for our friends in the school district and members of our business community. The famous quote that came to me was from Japanese Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto in the 1970 film Tora! Tora! Tora!, “I fear all we have done is to awaken a sleeping giant and fill him with a terrible resolve.” At the time I wondered if maybe the failure of the levies was a catalyst for our community to come together and actively engage in creating a brighter future, rather than remaining on the sidelines. 

Since March I have witnessed community groups that are normally at odds come together in unity to support our schools and kids.  People put their differences aside and joined forces to make sure our public school system has the resources that are needed to ensure our kids have a well-rounded educational experience. Our community has a rich tradition of supporting our educational system, and I am optimistic we are on our way back to that same enthusiastic level of support.

For the Coeur d’Alene Regional Chamber, passing the levy is a cause for celebration and reflection. It highlights the importance of community involvement in shaping the future of our educational institutions and the lives of our children. A strong educational system (all levels, including public, private, and homeschooling) is vital for our business community as it impacts our workforce, property values, economic development, stability, and so much more. Let us take a moment to reflect upon this wonderful achievement and continue to support the growth and success of our students, as they are the foundation of our community and the future of our businesses.

Again we thank you for taking the time to vote! For more information about “Vote Yes For CDA Schools Levy,” click here. Please visit our website to learn more about the CDA Regional Chamber and how you can get involved! 

Our mission is truly our members. We are the voice of business and would love to have you join us: 

Business After Hours – Thursday, May 25, 2023

Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel, 5 to 6:30 p.m. 

Come celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel! This free networking event is opent to the public and provides an opportunity for members to showcase their businesses and make connections. Appetizers, beverages, and prizes are provided by sponsoring businesses.

Kootenai County Commissioners Breakfast – Wednesday, May 31, 2023 

Best Western Plus Coeur d’Alene Inn, 7 to 9 a.m. 

Join us for a county update from our Kootenai County commissioners: Bill Brooks, Bruce Mattare, and Leslie Duncan! To sign up, visit cdachamber.com.