November 2019: An Update from Lexington and Richland County Administrators

Guest Speakers: Leondardo Brown, Richland County and Joe Mergo, Lexington County

Summary: 

The Chamber's November Issues Forum featured the County Administrators who were asked to share their thoughts on the challenges and opportunities facing Columbia and Lexington and their suggested solutions. The re-occurring themes were: regional cooperation, communications, economic development, service fees, taxes and economies of scale through potential consolidation of services. The administrators agreed that the bridges across the rivers should be a way to come together and not divide.

Throughout the year, you can expect the Columbia Chamber to: 
 

• Continue to foster discussions with regional partners to enhance economic development and opportunities for working together.
• Continue to work with local elected officials to ensure the voice of businesses are heard as potential changes are discussed regarding business fees, consolidation, safety, and economic development.
• Continue to monitor the work of the area Councils at City of Columbia, Richland County, Lexington County and Forest Acres to stay current on their work and provide updated information to Partners as appropriate.