Matthews. | LinkedIn.

Meredith Matthews, a former Arcata mayor and current City Councilmember, has submitted her letter of resignation as executive director of the Arcata Chamber of Commerce.

In a brief phone interview with the Outpost, Matthews described her chamber gig as “probably the best job I’ve ever had,” adding, “I love the staff, the board and the community.”

Matthews, who has served as the Arcata Chamber’s ED for a little over two years, plans to continue in the role through July 15.

“I’m committed get through the Fourth of July and make sure the chamber is set up for success,” she said. She also plans to help the organization hire her replacement. The chamber has already begun a search and has issued a press release with details. Click here to download that.

As for her own plans, Matthews has been hired as the next executive director of the Humboldt Lodging Alliance, a nonprofit focused on boosting local tourism. She’s scheduled to start that job on Aug. 4. 

Below is her letter of resignation from the Arcata Chamber:

Dear Chamber Members,

It has been an absolute pleasure and privilege to work alongside you over the past two years. Together, we have strengthened the Arcata Chamber of Commerce, not just as an organization, but as a true cornerstone of our community.

I am so proud of all we have accomplished to serve our members better. We have built a robust social media presence that tells the stories of our local businesses and shares the spirit of Arcata far beyond our city limits. We’ve expanded events on the Plaza and throughout the city, creating opportunities for connection, celebration, and economic vitality. We’ve broadened our outreach and deepened our partnerships, including our work with Cal Poly Humboldt, the City of Arcata, and countless local organizations to support business growth and build a stronger, more resilient local economy. Together, we’ve reimagined what the Chamber can be—a resource, an advocate, and a place where members feel seen, supported, and celebrated.

The love I have for our business community and the City of Arcata is immeasurable. I’m excited to continue serving this region as the new Executive Director of the Humboldt Lodging Alliance, where I will have the opportunity to work with partners across Humboldt County to promote sustainable tourism, support local businesses, and bring more overnight visitors to our community.

I am confident the Chamber will continue to thrive in the capable and dedicated hands of Gloria, Zach, and our incredible Board of Directors. I look forward to supporting their work as a Chamber member and as a continued advocate for our local business community.

Please feel free to reach out to me in the coming weeks if you have any questions, or simply to stay connected. I’ll look forward to seeing you at mixers, workshops, and community events around town.

Thank you for trusting me with this role. It has truly been one of the greatest honors of my career.

Warmly,

Meredith Matthews