Keeping the interests and concerns of the Chamber's nearly 1400 member firms uppermost in the minds of the area's legislative delegations is a top priority for the Chamber. By listening to its members, by polling them frequently, and by involving them on committees and task forces, the Chamber is able to draft a legislative agenda and present it to elected officials in the collective voice of its membership. While individual contacts with lawmakers and elected officials carries clout, a unified voice representing nearly 1800 businesses is even more powerful.

 

Addressing issues as complex and cumbersome as tort reform, holding the line on new taxes, succession planning and taxes, and others could be overwhelming. But with trained, experienced professional staff, the Chamber is able to articulate the concerns of its members and apply incentive for elected officials to act wisely.

 

By breaking down this topics at the local, state and federal issues, members are afforded more of an opportunity to educate themselves on the issues and how they affect their businesses. By managing a Local Issues, and a State and Federal Issues committee, the Chamber opens its doors to a greater number of volunteers who attend presentations and discussions of key issues. The Chamber staff researches legislative background and drafts position papers which are submitted to the Chamber Board of Directors for approval.

Regional Resource Studies
The Energy and Environment Committee has reconvened its study, along with the East Central Regional Planning Commission and the U.S. Geological Survey, of the availability and quality of the regional water supply.

 

For information on these committees or to bring a concern to the attention of the Chamber staff, click here.