The Airdrie Chamber of Commerce held their Annual General meeting on Wednesday, May 18, resulting in a shift of many roles and 5 new directors being elected to the board.

Former Airdrie Mayor, Linda Bruce, who has served on the board for the past 4 years was elected into the role of President, moving up from her role as 1st Vice President.

Bruce is looking forward to her 1 year term, sharing that it should be an easy transition due to the strong leadership from the board's past President.

"I'm lucky to fall on the heels of someone like Wade Cormier who's done a fabulous job for the last 2 years, he really has paved the way for an easy term I think for myself."

Bruce said there will be a couple areas that she will be focusing on during her term, including taxes for small businesses.

"Trying to make sure that taxes are appropriate for businesses so that their burdens are something they're able to meet and they can keep their people employed."

The upcoming increase in minimum wage is another area of concern for Bruce who said that she wants to speak with small businesses to help understand how it will effect their bottom line.

For new small businesses that are trying to find lease space, Bruce said that Airdrie's high lease rates are a concern.

"We do have very high lease rates here, of course that is a private business issue and it's very hard for small businesses to start up."

Bruce will serve on the board with 15 other members, including 2 Vice Presidents, a Treasurer, Past President, City of Airdrie Liaison, and 10 Directors.