Public Policy Guiding Principles

The Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce supports policy that preserves and promotes a positive business climate.

We believe entrepreneurship and innovation are the pillars of the world’s strongest economy and can only exist in a free market. As the foremost advocate and voice for business, the Tri-City Regional Chamber of Commerce will lead the region by advancing policies that strengthen business and improve our region’s economic climate and quality of life.

The following Guiding Principles serve as a general statement to the public about what the Chamber stands for, and guides the Chamber board, staff, and committees as issues arise, to assist in prioritizing where Chamber resources are directed in support of its mission.

Childcare

We support access to affordable, and high-quality childcare which is crucial to a prosperous and equitable future. Affordable and high-quality childcare options are major obstacles to success and affect many families and directly impacts employers.

Clean Energy

We support the production and delivery of reliable and affordable clean energy that meets the capacity needs of our growing community, preserves the attractiveness and livability of our region for current and future residents, and does not negatively impact local businesses.

Economic Development

We support efforts to grow the Tri-City region through policies and legislation that promote entrepreneurship, new business, workforce development, business retention, infrastructure development, job, and population growth.

Education and Workforce Development

We support investment in education, with specific emphasis on structured vocational education that provides a quality workforce for the region. The Chamber advocates consistent and ongoing communication and collaboration between business, and educators, creating and expanding cost-effective opportunities for training, and building partnerships with education providers. Additionally we supports initiatives to attract, nurture, prepare, and retain a sustainable workforce. This is achieved by broadening trade, technical, and soft skills, linking formal education with practical application. This comprehensive approach ensures a well-prepared and sustainable workforce that meets the region’s needs.

Healthcare

We support healthcare policy that improves access to healthcare and reduces employer cost, eliminates burdensome employer directives and unfunded mandates.

Land Use and Housing

We support sustainable, economically robust community growth through public-private partnerships that foster predictable, fair, and cost-effective development. Our goal is to provide affordable housing, attract and retain talent, encourage job mobility, and meet the needs of our current and future workforce.

Local Intergovernmental Cooperation

The Chamber advocates for collaborative resource sharing among local cities, ports, and state government to enhance cost-effectiveness and service efficiency for taxpayers and businesses. It supports a service-oriented collaboration model that improves government service delivery, accountability, and transparency. Additionally, the Chamber promotes streamlining processes and eliminating redundancies to achieve more effective government service delivery.

Public Safety

Public safety is essential for a high-quality life and a secure community. We strive to balance empathy with ensuring a safe environment. Collaboration between local communities and service providers strengthens public safety and minimizes any negative impact on businesses.

Regulatory Reform

We believe that government policies and regulations should promote the responsible operation of businesses and incentivize innovation and entrepreneurship. Laws and regulations that impede these principles or negatively impact businesses should be revised or repealed

Taxes and Spending

We advocate for a competitive and balanced tax environment that stimulates economic growth by encouraging private sector expansion. The Chamber supports fair tax policies and prudent budgeting practices to position our region for business growth and opportunity. We prioritize funding for vital services and infrastructure, ensuring that expenditures remain within anticipated revenues.

Transportation and Infrastructure

Transportation and infrastructure policies should be linked to economic growth through the safe and efficient movement of products, services, information, and people, encompassing all modes of transportation.