Governmental Affairs
As the largest business organization in Western North Carolina, the Chamber serves as a lead advocate for business issues, representing the interest of business to local, state and federal governmental leaders. The Chamber works closely with the Asheville City Council, Buncombe County Board of Commissioners, North Carolina General Assembly and congressional leaders in Washington, D.C. to ensure that the interests of the business community are well represented in public policy decisions. The Chamber provides opportunities for members to meet with elected officials through public policy forums, legislative receptions and legislative weekend events. Candidate forums and surveys are developed during each election cycle in order to ensure an informed Chamber membership and business community. The Chamber's governmental affairs programs are carried out by the Workforce Development/Public Policy Department in conjunction with Chamber member task forces.Through the Governmental Affairs Task Force, the Chamber develops a legislative agenda communicating the Chamber’s positions and top priorities on state, local and federal issues important to the area’s citizens and business community. A delegation of Chamber members promotes the agenda through regular legislative visits to Raleigh and Washington, D.C. The Chamber’s Transportation and Infrastructure Task Force works with transportation leaders and staff to improve and maintain rail, air and ground travel infrastructure, as well as alternative modes of transportation. The group monitors and takes action as necessary regarding specific transportation projects important for Asheville and Western North Carolina.
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