Citing political reasons and the desire to focus on her career and family, Patricia Muraco, director of the Gateway Chamber of Commerce, has announced her resignation from the post.

"I have found that many political tactics have burdened the Chamber from the beginning," Muraco wrote in her resignation letter. "I have stressed from the beginning that politics not have influence on building a Chamber."

The new Chamber was formed late last fall and was met with both congratulations and skepticism, as the Cape Cod Canal Region Chamber of Commerce currently serves Wareham businesses.

Muraco told the Board of Selectmen at that time that there was "a growing need among area businesses and organizations for a body that would serve local interests and provide networking, educational, and business development opportunities."

Muraco wrote in her resignation letter that founding members and board members had not brought forth new members, who she was told were "waiting for this new formation for many years."

"...[A]s a matter of fact, I was told they were holding off from bringing members on," Muraco wrote. "I know from past experience that hesitation can cause doubt and I do feel bad if that doubt has hurt this community."

Muraco expressed frustration with what she called a lack of unity among the Board of Directors, and added that she was unable to continue her work with the Chamber without compensation.

"My decision to resign has come from not only this lack of unity, but also from a personal decision to devote more time to my career and my family," Muraco wrote. "The Chamber has not been able to give compensation because of lack of members. Board members were made aware of this at several meetings. I am no longer able to continue without compensation."

It is unclear who is currently serving on the Board of Directors. A website for the Gateway Chamber, www.gatewaychamberofcommerce.com, is largely under construction.

"I am proud to say that I have given my time and effort to organize a Chamber on behalf of a request of a few members of this community," Muraco wrote. "I did form what I felt was a strong Board of Directors willing to help business growth and networking opportunities. I still feel with a great team of board members working for a common goal, the Chamber can accomplish this."