Category Archives: Advocacy

Better Schools Mean Better Business and Better Community

This column by Travis Vencel, chairman of the board, and Christy Gillenwater, president and CEO, of the Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce appeared as a guest column in The Herald Times on April 12, 2010.

“Better Business. Better Community.” A simple statement that reflects The Greater Bloomington Chamber of Commerce’s belief that a strong business climate leads to a higher quality of life for everyone.

But as we all know, it takes many components to build a “better community.” That is why, through The Chamber’s Franklin Initiative, we work daily in our schools to make a difference in young lives, with particular attention paid to at-risk youth. This is a focus area for The Chamber because we also believe that better education creates better business and a better community. Continue reading →

Legislative Wrap Up

The 2010 Legislative Session adjourned March 13th, with the Indiana General Assembly passing some pretty significant legislation during the short session.  A Constitutional amendment for property tax caps will be on the ballot this fall – amidst a possible local referendum for school funding. The Legislature delayed the unemployment insurance tax increase and created a new tax incentive aimed at aiding in job creation.

The Legislative Wrap Up Luncheon next Monday, March 29th will be a great opportunity to better understand what business issues were or were not addressed and how it affects your business and our community. Continue reading →