USA: Wilmington Chamber Announces 2013 Public Policy Agenda

The Board of Directors of the Wilmington Chamber of Commerce approved the Chamber’s 2013 Public Policy Agenda at their meeting yesterday, February 13, 2013.

The Agenda includes state and local items that bring focus to the area’s need to be more business friendly.

“As our region continues its slow recovery from the recession, it is very important for local government to do what it can to help, not hinder, the private-sector economic growth which is always a pre-condition to an improving quality of life,” said Chamber Board Chair Hal Kitchin (McGuireWoods LLP). “The Chamber’s Public Policy Agenda will provide local government leaders information and direction from the business community to help accelerate and broaden economic growth and opportunity throughout the region.”

Items comprising the Agenda were identified by Chamber members as being the most important to the region’s business community and the overall economic health of the area. The items were determined through a survey of Chamber members and the work of a Public Policy Committee.

The Chamber will present the Agenda to area representatives to the General Assembly, local elected officials, economic development groups and other decision makers during upcoming meetings. Strategies to move the Agenda forward will be developed from input received during these discussions.

State Issue: Beach renourishment, and inlet and river dredging must continue to be a State priority.

– Federal funding is no longer a major factor in ongoing beach renourishment and inlet and river dredging.

– The beaches and river inlets are a unique asset. Their continued health and attractiveness is essential. There is a direct connection to accessible, healthy beaches and tourist spending in the area affecting the overall economy.

– Oppose changes to the current Room Occupancy Tax formula including the distribution.

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Press Release, February 14, 2013