By Adam Smith

The North Jefferson News



A Gardendale-based group seeks to inject some fresh ideas into the local business community.

Though the North Jefferson Business League isn’t new, the 20-member group is focusing on some fresh approaches to stimulate the business community across northern Jefferson County.

League president Dr. James Fox of Gardendale Chiropractic Center said the group is wanting to create a dialogue with business leaders, pastors and governing bodies in an effort to assess the needs of the local business community that may be hurting from the lingering recession.

He said the group’s responsibility is not to recruit new businesses to north Jefferson County, but instead to help current businesses flourish. However, he said a successful business support system could help boost commercial growth.

“We’re branching out to bridge communication between businesses, chambers of commerce and municipalities,” he said. “By working with the existing businesses here in the north Jefferson area, it will be a more attractive region for new businesses.”

The group was founded to serve as a networking platform and referral service for local businesses. Fox said in addition to business leaders acting as “spheres of influence” for other businesses owners, the group also educates members on issues like customer service and branding.

The North Jefferson Business League is open to any business in north Jefferson County, but its focus is on Christian-based businesses.

“We want to have that as an important feature in each business,” Fox said. “It’s about taking care of our neighbor the right way.”

The group plans to offer business building workshops in the evening two to three times per year, including a business building summit in November.

The cost to join the group is $200, which includes the first two years of membership. After two years, the cost is $100 a year to remain a member.

The group meets each Wednesday morning at 8 a.m. at the Gardendale Civic Center.

For more information on the North Jefferson Business League, visit www.njblonline.com.