The Public Policy Agenda aims to enhance the Chamber’s standing as the voice of business and its positive influence politically and with public policy/advocacy efforts. The Public Policy Agenda supports the Chamber’s vision statement: We position our community for prosperity by cultivating a growing and connected community and supporting pro business growth.
As a voice of our business community, we understand that our elected officials may be challenged with complex, sensitive, and controversial issues throughout their terms. We trust they will represent citizens at the municipal, county with balance, respect, and an eye on maintaining Mint Hill’s status as a top town to live and work.
Collectively, our goal will be to work with elected officials, maintain high visibility and accessibility regarding issues that could impact our business climate, and be direct when communicating our concerns.
The Mint Hill Chamber of Commerce supports a wide variety of initiatives that build a stronger local marketplace and economy. A strong economy provides the tax base necessary to support education and local services, along with building a sustaining community infrastructure. Consequently, we support a public policy agenda that fosters business growth and creates jobs. Additionally, addressing taxes, reducing the regulatory burden and investing in a skilled workforce.
Guiding Principles
Advocacy at Work
Legislative Priorities
- Support Small Business Growth and Retention
- Tax Incentives and Relief: Advocate for tax credits or incentives for small businesses to stimulate growth, job creation, and business expansion.
- Access to Capital: Work with legislators to improve access to capital for small businesses through grant programs and low-interest loans.
- Regulatory Reform: Advocate for the reduction of unnecessary regulatory burdens that hinder business growth, streamlining permitting processes, and promoting fair business practices.
- Promote Economic Mobility and Workforce Development
- Workforce Training Programs: Support legislation that enhances vocational training, apprenticeships, and internship opportunities in coordination with local high schools and community colleges, such as the Jr. Ambassador and Career Exploration Fair programs.
- Workforce Housing Initiatives: Advocate for affordable housing policies that address the needs of workers, ensuring a balanced community for all income levels.
- Educational Investments: Support funding for K-12 and higher education initiatives that prepare students for high-demand careers in Mint Hill’s key industries, such as manufacturing, healthcare, and technology.
- Invest in Infrastructure and Transportation Solutions
- Transportation Funding: Advocate for state and federal funding for road improvements, traffic congestion relief, and public transportation solutions that connect Mint Hill to surrounding economic hubs like Charlotte.
- Broadband Access: Promote investment in reliable, high-speed broadband infrastructure to support business growth and remote work opportunities throughout the Mint Hill area.
- Community Infrastructure: Support local and regional investment in public infrastructure projects, including parks, pedestrian walkways, and sustainable development initiatives that enhance the community’s quality of life.
- Champion Pro-Business Legislative Policies
- Business-Friendly Tax Policies: Support tax policies that foster a pro-business climate in Mint Hill and surrounding regions, ensuring the business community remains competitive within the state and across the Southeast.
- Workforce Flexibility: Advocate for policies that allow businesses to offer flexible work options, including remote work, as a means of adapting to the changing workplace environment post-pandemic.
- Foster Civic Engagement and Public Advocacy
- Encourage Business Advocacy: Provide platforms and resources for Mint Hill businesses to engage with local, state, and federal legislators on issues impacting the business community.
- Local Government Collaboration: Work closely with Mint Hill’s town commissioners and other local entities to ensure that the Chamber’s legislative priorities are aligned with broader community goals.
- Community Involvement: Promote policies that encourage local residents to engage in public policy discussions, ensuring a healthy dialogue between businesses, residents, and elected officials.
- Focus on Sustainability and Smart Growth
- Environmental Responsibility: Support sustainable business practices and policies that promote environmental stewardship while encouraging business growth. Advocate for investment in green infrastructure and clean energy initiatives.
- Smart Development: Promote smart growth policies that balance development with maintaining the charm and character of Mint Hill. Support zoning regulations that encourage responsible development while ensuring adequate infrastructure to meet future growth needs.