The city of Dawsonville has decided to provide money to a Dawson County organization in return for promotional services.

During its June 14 special called meeting, the city voted to pass a resolution in support of providing $1,000 a month for a year to the Dawson County Chamber of Commerce.

"The chamber has been very helpful in promoting the city and its events," said Dawsonville Mayor James Grogan. "With funding losses from other sources, we felt it was our responsibility to step up our support for them."

The agreement, which was approved unanimously, affirmed the city's desire to "promote the existing commercial and industrial businesses and tourism attractions located in the city."

"[Chamber of Commerce President] Christie [Haynes] and her staff have volunteered their personal time to the music festivals we've held," Grogan said. "Their help is very important to us."

The agreement states that, according to Georgia law, the city can "authorize the expenditures of monies accruing to the general fund of the city for such activities," such as supporting the local chamber of commerce. The funds will be used solely for the promotion of the city.

"We are very grateful for the support that the city has shown to the chamber and office of tourism development," Haynes said. "We have worked and will continue to work with the city on projects such as downtown revitalization and attracting events to bring in visitors."

According to Haynes, the mission of the chamber is to "cultivate a successful economic environment and a desirable quality of life for our businesses and community."

"Our goal is to continually support and help improve this amazing community in which we live and work," she said. "In communities like ours, it is important that all groups work together for the betterment of all individuals and we feel blessed to have such a positive relationship with our elected officials."

Continued funding will be addressed on a yearly basis, Grogan said.