June 13, 2025
Thanks to the efforts of a dedicated resident and several local leaders, a valuable resource is returning to the San Juan area — its chamber of commerce. In a region where connection and collaboration are vital to rural success, the chamber’s revival marks a new chapter for businesses across southeastern Utah. With a newly updated website and membership options, it’s a strong addition to Utah’s chambers of commerce.
After moving to the area, Talia Hansen, director of San Juan County economic development, hoped to join the local chamber — only to find it had gone dormant during the COVID-19 pandemic. Seeing its value, she volunteered to facilitate its return.
Hansen’s efforts brought together key partners, including Monticello Mayor Bayley Hedglin, who “held the torch” to keep the chamber alive, and consultant Deb Brown, whose “Idea Friendly Method” offered guidance. Local advocate Tyler Bailey supported the groundwork, conducting surveys and spreading awareness.
Given the county’s geographic and cultural diversity, the chamber will be guided by an 11-member board representing Bluff, Blanding, Monticello, Spanish Valley, La Sal, and the Navajo and Ute tribal nations.
“We’re a really interesting area because we have so many different resources,” Hansen said. “We do a lot of tourism, and we have beautiful landscapes we’re known for, but it’s less known that we’re agriculture-based and have plenty of minerals and mining.”
Rather than relying on a central office, the chamber will use a regional hub model, operating out of seven chapter houses and a dedicated business hub in Monticello, with more planned.
“Normally, you’d have one big building where everyone gathers, but because of the distance, that makes it difficult,” she said. “We’ve partnered with our local business hubs to better serve each community and their priorities.”
Supporting this revival are the chamber’s executive board members: Bill Boyle of the San Juan Record, who amplified local businesses and community initiatives through journalism; Pamela Hanson, a specialist in agricultural development; and Taylor Harrison, a financial expert and leader from Desert Rivers Credit Union.
Thanks to the passion, drive, and combined knowledge of the people who worked to bring it back, the San Juan Chamber is currently accepting new members. Learn more about the organization and how to sign up by visiting its website.
Looking to support your small business in Utah? Visit the Startup State Initiative’s resource page to find more tools, programs, and communities to move your business forward, or learn how to start your business in Utah.
The information in this article is current as of the publishing date and is intended for informational purposes only. This article does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal, tax, or business advice. Any resources and organizations mentioned, unless an entity of or a partner of the state of Utah, are not formally endorsed by the Startup State Initiative or state of Utah.