What is the Political Action Committee?
The mission of the McLean County Chamber of Commerce is to “promote commerce, advocate pro-business perspectives, collaborate to lead change, and engage in action for results that strengthen the prosperity of the business community” or PACE. For this to happen, it is critical that local elected officials have a strong understanding of the importance of creating a business-friendly environment in the community.
To advance our PACE mission the McLean County Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee (PAC), a separate subsidiary entity of the Chamber, formed in 2009 as a bipartisan effort to support candidates, committees, and issues at the local and state level that champion a healthy economy, favorable business climate, high quality of life and progressive future for McLean County. The PAC relies on support from individuals and businesses like you to continue our advocacy efforts. It is governed by its own Board of Directors that are Chamber members and administered with staff support. This combined team is responsible for spearheading the two key functions of the PAC – fundraising and elections.
Board of Directors
Michelle Houchin
Adkisson Search Consultants
Tony Maier
Four Seasons Health Club
Ryan Fiala
D.P. Dough & Fiala Brothers Brewery & Brew Hall
Blake Otto
State Farm
Tracy Patkunas
RE/MAX Rising
Ryan Scritchlow, Chair
Scritchlow Enterprises
Mitch Stebel
Clock Tower Community Bank
Steve Timmerman, Vice Chair
Bank of Pontiac
Elections
Countdown to November 3rd, 2026 Election
The Chamber is an important thought leader on business issues in the community and therefore its input into the election process is critical. The goal of its endorsement process is to support pro-business candidates that share the mission and priorities of the Chamber. It plays an active role in supporting candidates through endorsements, contributions, and political communications. The PAC traditionally focuses on the City of Bloomington Council, Town of Normal Council, and McLean County Board.
Fundraising
Contributions to the PAC are voluntary, but with your steadfast support we can help elect candidates who understand and advocate on behalf of the business community. Please consider contributing so that the PAC can continue to be an effective tool to make McLean County a better place to live and do business. There are three ways to do so which are outlined below.
Voluntary Dues: Membership invoices include a voluntary 10% donation to the PAC. While completely voluntary we strongly encourage you to contribute as part of your dues to ensure our PAC has the resources to advocate for business.
Annual Fundraiser: Save the Date of Thursday, October 23rd, 2025, 4:30-6:30pm for our 2025 Annual Fundraiser. More details will be released in early September, 2025.
Political Leadership Suite: The PLS is for those who want to be top champions for our PAC and understand the critical nature of having pro-business elected officials. To join select one of the options below.
Chair Suite
- Recognition at PAC annual fundraiser
- Recognition on PAC website all of 2025 w/ logo
- Four complimentary tickets to PAC annual fundraiser
CEO Suite
- Recognition at PAC annual fundraiser
- Recognition on PAC website all of 2025 w/ logo
- Two complimentary tickets to PAC annual fundraiser
Director Suite
- Recognition at PAC annual fundraiser
- Recognition on PAC website all of 2025 w/ logo
Manager Suite
- Recognition at PAC annual fundraiser
Chair Suite
Edward B. Rust Jr.
Bob & Julie Dobski
CEO Suite
Director Suite
A copy of our report filed with the State Board of Elections is (or will be) available on the board’s official website www.elections.il.gov or for purchase from the state board of elections in Springfield, Illinois. This page is paid for by the McLean County Chamber of Commerce Political Action Committee as part of their administrative fees to the McLean County Chamber of Commerce.