I was sad to read in the Oct. 24 edition of the Record-Bee, Chuck Doty”s announcement that the Lake County Business Outreach and Response Team (BORT) will close at the end of the year. BORT has made a significant contribution by providing services that were vital to assist businesses that were considering locating in the county. It is unfortunate that the county will lose this very valuable resource, especially during this period when the county is experiencing steady growth.
As executive director, Chuck has done an outstanding job. He is the most optimistic and positive person I have met regardless of the challenges, disappointments and difficulties, he never gives up! He just keeps going, encouraging and supporting business development for the county. In this competitive environment for job creation among cities and counties, Chuck founded the County of Lake Workforce Development Taskforce, a partnership among local businesses, to address employment issues and to ensure a strong, viable workforce for future economic development.
When the Cheap Tickets Call Center in Lakeport closed, Chuck worked relentlessly to find another business to relocate here. Although that didn”t happen, it was not because of lack of effort by Chuck. Not only did he recognize the economic impact of the closure, he also recognized there was a pool of highly qualified people available to support a similar industry here.
On a personal note, Chuck was very supportive and helpful to me. As the director of the Cheap Tickets operations, he was always readily available whenever I asked for his assistance, especially in dealing with local government. I relied on his knowledge and expertise and appreciated his advice.
Chuck managed BORT with pride, integrity and love of Lake County. He always had the best interest of Lake County at heart. BORT provided an invaluable service that will be missed.
Eugene A. Gonsalves
Former director, Cheap Tickets
Lakeport
