Sparta eyes formation of chamber

Out of the ashes of the Sparta Community Improvement Association, a dozen residents hope to form a chamber of commerce.

“The association was in place to help form the industrial park, but it kind of faded away,” said Matthew Holden, chairman of the committee to form the chamber. “However, they still have a 501(c)3 in place with the IRS. We are in the process now of trying to get that switched over.”

Formed in 1998, the Sparta Community Improvement Association also helped host the annual fall festival Persimmon Days and other events, such as collecting Christmas baskets for elderly. Holden said the organization dissolved due to lack of volunteers.

By August, the Christian County town of less than 2,000 residents could be home to the Sparta Area Chamber of Commerce. With two public meetings under its belt, and another slated for June 17, Holden said area business owners are interested in the possibility.

“When I opened last August, I wanted to have a ribbon-cutting and say hello to the town, but that wasn’t an option,” said Holden, owner of Sparta’s Holden Cremation and Funeral Service LLC. “We’ve had over 30 people at each meeting so far. I think the town is ready for this.”

Along with a couple dozen retailers, restaurants and service agents within city limits, Holden hopes to draw from the surrounding area, where he says there are sawmills, plumbers and trucking agents.

The ultimate goal is to unify current businesses and kick-start the Sparta economy by helping bring new business to town, Holden said.

The committee currently is planning membership drives for July and September and will elect board members once paperwork is in order.