In a story in Sunday’s Covington News, which can be read at CovNews.com, we learned that the leaders of the Newton Chamber of Commerce still were talking to community leaders in order to receive input on the new chamber director’s job description.

 We also think this dialogue is especially prudent.

 The committee should listen closely to the suggestions of our elected officials, but should keep in mind that the Chamber of Commerce needs to be completely separate from political control or interference.

 The chamber represents the business community, and it should be their foremost concern in any selection made by the search committee.

 Covington Mayor Kim Carter said that in her inquiries around the state, she feels that the new chamber director should spend 80 percent of his or her time on economic development.

 A good chamber director should be allowed to create his own priorities and spend the amount of time he deems necessary on economic development. The majority of the selectee’s time should be taken up by representing the local business community.