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Western North Carolina Chambers Conduct Annual Raleigh Advocacy Trip

The Henderson County Chamber of Commerce joined 13 other Western North Carolina chambers of commerce in Raleigh in mid-May for the annual Western North Carolina Chambers Advocacy Trip, an important initiative focused on advancing the interests of the regional business community and strengthening relationships with state leaders.

Representing Henderson County was a delegation of 22 business and community leaders who traveled to the state capital to advocate for policies and investments that support economic growth, workforce development, infrastructure, and ongoing recovery efforts across Western North Carolina.

The annual advocacy trip provides chamber leaders with the opportunity to engage directly with legislators, state agency officials, and key policy leaders on issues impacting local businesses and communities. This year’s delegation participated in a series of briefings and discussions with prominent state officials and industry leaders, including:

  • Josh Stein, Governor of North Carolina
  • Gary Salamido, President & CEO, NC Chamber
  • Peter Daniel, Director of State Government Affairs, Duke Energy
  • Matt Calabria, Director of GROW NC, providing updates on Hurricane Helene recovery efforts
  • Dave Boliek, North Carolina Office of the State Auditor
  • Lee Lilley, General Counsel, North Carolina Department of Commerce

The delegation also met with members of the local legislative delegation, including Senator Tim Moffitt and Representatives Jennifer Balkcom and Jake Johnson.

“The Annual Raleigh Trip is an important part of the Chamber’s public policy efforts,” said Chamber Chairman Bill McKibbin. “The trip allows us the opportunity to keep business issues and Western North Carolina on the front burner for state leaders, while advocating for legislation and resources that strengthen our local economy and support continuing Helene recovery efforts.”

Briefings and policy discussions focused on several critical issues affecting businesses and communities throughout the region, including:

  • Childcare legislation and funding initiatives designed to support rural childcare providers and working families
  • Continued Hurricane Helene recovery funding for small businesses, infrastructure, and local governments
  • Ensuring affordable, reliable, and abundant energy to meet the demands of a growing population and economy
  • Efforts by the State Auditor’s Office to address government waste, fraud, and abuse
  • Economic development, workforce readiness, and additional policy priorities impacting Western North Carolina

The annual advocacy trip underscores the continued collaboration among Western North Carolina chambers and reinforces the importance of maintaining a strong regional voice in Raleigh on behalf of businesses, employers, and local communities.