By KALEY CONNER

kconner@dailynews.net

After months of consideration, administrators of the Hays Area Chamber of Commerce, Ellis County Coalition for Economic Development and Downtown Hays Development Corp. have decided not to merge their services, it was announced today.

The entities had been analyzing the possibility since early June.

"Our board decided not to follow through with it at this time," said Darren Schumacher, chairman of the chamber's board of directors. "I would say it's always an option, but that would be left to those boards at those times."

The groups were studying possible financial efficiencies, among other components, Schumacher said.

Two research committees were appointed to assist the three organizations in this matter. One was to look at other communities in the region that have consolidated or considered merging services, and the other examined strategic plans like business structures and budgets.

The DHDC board decided earlier this month that the merger would not be in the organization's best interest at this time, said Sabrina William, DHDC coordinator.

That decision was made partly because other communities that have merged organizations had not included groups similar to DHDC in their consolidated arrangements, she said.

"Since there wasn't a prototype already in place with all three merging that they could gain a lot of expertise from, they decided the Downtown Hays Development Corp. (should remain separate)," William said.

Discussions began after the chamber's executive director, Ericka Gillespie, resigned in May. The board now is conducting a search for someone to fill that position.

Those interested in applying should submit a cover letter and resume to the chamber office, 2700 Vine, or via e-mail at chair@discoverhays.com. Applications will be accepted until Aug. 25.

"The board of directors of the Ellis County Economic Development Coalition decided to postpone the pursuit of a merger with the Hays Area Chamber of Commerce," said Todd Powell, ECEDC board chairman. "The coalition is grateful to the chamber and DHDC for the joint communication and collaboration in exploring a merger, and hopes the enhanced communication between the three organizations continues."

For more, see Sunday's Hays Daily News.