InTouch with Southern Kentucky January 2020 | Page 28

5
FIVE QUESTIONS
with
Bobby
Clue
Q uestions
Since 2011, Bobby Clue has been the
Executive Director of the Somerset-
Pulaski County Chamber of Commerce.
The native of Nancy in western Pulaski
had been involved elsewhere in both the
public and private sectors in research,
public relations and communication,
but came home to help guide the local
business community into a greater era of
success. In 2018, Clue oversaw the effort
the move the Chamber’s offices from
U.S. 27 right to the heart of Somerset,
downtown on East Mt. Vernon Street.
Following are five questions put to Clue
about the state of business in Pulaski
County and what it looks like going into
the new year:
1
Going into 2020,
how healthy is the local
business community?
Our
local
business
economy looks strong
going into 2020. Small
businesses contribute to local economies
by bringing growth and innovation to
the community in which the business
is established. Small businesses also
help stimulate economic growth by
providing employment opportunities
to people who may not be employable
by larger corporations. I believe 2020
will be another strong year of economic
growth for Pulaski County.
2
What does the
Somerset-Pulaski
County Chamber of
Commerce do for local
businesses?
28 • I n T ouch with S outhern K entucky 
The
Somerset-Pulaski
County
Chamber of Commerce is a community
connector. Our job is to make positive
connections that will benefit our
members and the community at large.
From serving as the leading voice of
business in Southeast Kentucky, to
convening premier networking events,
the Chamber continues to play a role in
the city, county and region’s prosperous
future.
3
Do locally-owned
small businesses feel
like they can grow and
succeed in Somerset-
Pulaski County?
Yes, I believe small
businesses feel like they can grow
and succeed in Somerset-Pulaski
County. Our community has a strong
understanding of the importance
of shopping locally. Shopping in a
local business district means less
“The Chamber
understands
that a vibrant
downtown area
has an important
and unique role in
economic and social
development.”
- B obby C lue
infrastructure, less maintenance, and
more money available to beautify your
community. Also, spending locally
instead of online ensures that your
sales taxes are reinvested where they
belong— in your community.
4
Are there any exciting
developments in store
for 2020 and beyond,
either with the business
community or the
Chamber itself?
Overall, the Somerset-Pulaski County
area continues to thrive. This is due to
a vibrant downtown business district,
new local businesses, active residents,
engaged entities, an award winning
public school district, and much, much
more.
5
How has being
located downtown
helped the Chamber?
The Chamber
understands that a vibrant downtown
area has an important and unique role
in economic and social development.
Downtowns create a critical mass of
activities where commercial, cultural,
and civic activities are concentrated.
This concentration facilitates business,
learning, and cultural exchange. The
Chamber of Commerce has greatly
enjoyed our relocation into Downtown
Somerset. We see great things on the
horizon and look forward to becoming a
mainstay for decades to come.
J anuary 2020