Often we hear rhetoric that includes language such as, “this election is the most important one in years and will define us for years to come.”
I believe all elections provide clear differences in beliefs and direction, and all are critical to the future. This year is no different, and now that the primary season has passed, our country, state and county are poised to have an excellent debate, and hopefully we will be able to make clear decisions about our future.
The Rowan County Chamber of Commerce board of directors has worked with our federal, state and local affairs committees to develop positions we believe are not only good for business, but good for everyone. The board and committees are made up of people from a host of industries and areas in the county, each bringing a unique perspective and consideration to the issues. The full legislative agenda is available at the chamber office and has been shared with our legislators.
From a federal perspective, the chamber’s agenda includes a call for a comprehensive approach to solving our current transportation crisis. A clear plan of action should be developed and articulated to the states and constituency.
Next, the chamber supports the development of a comprehensive energy policy that encourages and takes advantages of our robust energy options within our country. That will significantly reduce our dependence on foreign resources.
From a state perspective, the chamber’s agenda calls for the expeditious replacement of the Interstate 85 Yadkin River bridge and surrounding four-lane highway. The chamber continues to make progress in building momentum for this critical project. Also, the chamber calls for the reduction of the tax burden on businesses and individuals in the state and opposes the taxation of services. This is one method of attracting additional business and industry to our state.
Locally, the chamber encourages providing economic development incentives that bring jobs and investment to our community and keeps us competitive with our neighbors.
We believe a balance should be maintained between new and existing industries of all sizes with a clear cost/benefit analysis.
In addition, the chamber encourages the county to continue with land planning initiative and applauds the county for work on this. A clear land-use plan should help relieve transportation issues and make development patterns more predictable.
The chamber’s agenda includes topics that address very pressing issues and needs.
The chamber represents the voices of 1,000 members who employ more than 30,000 people in Rowan County. We believe these items are important, if not critical, to our continued success. I encourage folks to seriously consider these issues before voting, but above all, we encourage you to participate and vote in the general election in November.
Seamus Donaldson is chairman of the Rowan County Chamber of Commerce’s board of directors. Contact him at sdonaldson1@carolina.rr.com.