Membership Benefits
AAIBO is devoted to bring you as much pertinent information as possible. Much of this can be done through updates sent by email or fax. However, to be fully understanding of what goes on in the city and local government, AAIBO offers monthly luncheons and limited to one hour. A guest speaker from the community or government is usually invited to speak on current events and/or topics of interest. Members are always invited to bring friends, family and business associates to these meetings. Some of the past speakers include Councilmen; Mayors; City Staff; School Board members and Superintendents; land developers; and other professionals with relevant information or valuable training.
What Are Some of the Issues AAIBO Has Been Involved?
AAIBO has been involved in the City and County budgetary process; City and School bond proposals; Comprehensive Land-Use Plan; Taylor County Wind-Farm Enterprise District; Storm Water Utility and various ordinances dealing with itinerant businesses, smoking ordinance, freight containers, permanent and temporary signs, and landscaping just to name a few.
What is AAIBO’s Purpose?
AAIBO provides small and independent business owners a voice in local government and the decision-making process. Our members are a diverse group of high-tech manufacturers, retailers, farmers, professional service providers and many more.
What is AAIBO’s Vision?
To Protect, Preserve and Promote the Interests of Small Business. This vision remains strong today. AAIBO sets its public policy positions by regularly polling members and acting on their advice. Once surveys are tallied, AAIBO carries a unified message to City and County leaders.
Who Does AAIBO Represent?
AAIBO represents small and independent business owners living and working in Abilene and Taylor County, Texas. Our membership includes small “mom and pop” operations up to the largest employers in the region. Our members are often considered community leaders. They run for local office and support local schools, churches, scout troops, ball teams and the arts.
The typical AAIBO member has five or fewer employees and has been in business more than 10 years. Most own retail or service companies. At present, 83 percent of our membership own computers and 62 percent use the Internet for personal or business purposes. Our members tend to have an interest in politics, and 95 percent vote in elections.
Who is Eligible to Join AAIBO?
Any independent business owner or representative in Abilene or Taylor County, Texas. AAIBO does not represent non-profit groups and government entities. Nor do we represent business with publicly traded stock, though all these businesses may join as non-voting “Associate Members”.