The Gladstone Chamber of Commerce hopes to see ongoing community involvement and support in 2016. That's according to Chamber President Nick Beavington, who notes the community's support is quite strong and a vital part of their work in the community.

One of the biggest highlights of 2015 saw the opening of the Parrish and Heimbecker Grain Elevator, was completed earlier this year. While Beavington notes the jobs created by that elevator have likely been filled, it will still increase traffic in the area.

"I think there are already several people in the community working or commuting to the elevator. There are a lot more grain trucks on the road of course, whether they stop is another thing. There's going to be a pile of them. When you have a big shed that holds a million bushels plus the elevator, it's going to take a lot of work to get everything going there, and a lot of people getting the product there, or getting it out."

Beavington says they're currently working on a plan to bring in some more visitors from out of town, but says it's too early to say exactly what's going to be done. However, he notes they're always looking to reach out to the community, to boost participation from businesses, and even possible future entrepreneurs.

"I'm hoping that we keep getting the support from the businesses. There's one or two that I'd still like to get involved with activities. It's hopefully more than a three or four man show. We're working with the high school, William Morton Collegiate. We have a representative from the high school working with us, and we try to reciprocate back with them so that's nice, to work with the younger generation."

He also hopes to encourage residents and visitors to enjoy some of their locations, such as the Williams RV Park and Campground.