The Solvang Chamber of Commerce will present the Solvang State of the City 2024 on Friday, Sept. 27, 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. at Craft House at Corque.  

Jesper Kamp, a consulate general from Denmark, will be the keynote speaker at the Solvang State of the City 2024. Credit: Courtesy photo

The Solvang Chamber of Commerce is honored to announce that the State of the City keynote speaker will be Mr. Jesper Kamp, a CEO and Consul General of Denmark. Kamp brings a wealth of experience and insight, particularly in sustainable solutions for water and energy issues, areas that are crucial for this community’s future. His tenure as Consul General to the U.S. West Coast underscores Denmark’s commitment to collaboration and innovation in addressing global challenges. 

The State of the City will begin with an invocation promptly, and the Pledge of Allegiance will be led by Art Kaslow, commander of 180 medical units. Additionally, there will be a tribute to Alvin Salge, commander of VFW Post #7139.

Afterwards, Solvang Mayor Mark Infanti and Solvang City Manager Randy Murphy will give a presentation on the city’s services provided to the community, accomplishments, city spending and key strategic  initiatives from 2023-2024 fiscal year thus far. There will also be a discussion on the spending on future revenue generating options (sales tax increase, transient occupancy tax increase, or formation of business improvement district) to support the city’s infrastructure, quality of life for residents, and thriving downtown as an economic engine for the community. 

Following the address, there will be an opportunity for guests to meet Jesper Kamp and engage in a dialogue about the presented topics. Residents are encouraged to join and participate in a question-and-answer session to share their thoughts and inquiries regarding the city’s projects and initiatives. 

The Solvang Chamber of Commerce is currently led by executive team: President Rene Martinez, Vice President Charles Werner, Treasurer Dan Cassara, Secretary Lisa Mesa, and Director at Large Steve Jenkins. The Solvang Chamber is proud to be the leading business organization providing timely, relevant and trustworthy information from elected officials and city leadership teams. The event is one of the largest business events in Solvang and  the premier event for Chamber members to hear from their elected officials. 

The Solvang State of the City is open to the public. For those seeking to purchase tickets, luncheon included is available for $55 at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/economic-summit-introducing-solvang-state-of-the-city-tickets 952811473767?aff=oddtdtcreator. For questions, contact the Solvang Chamber of Commerce at 805.688.0701. Sales end Sept. 25.