Advocacy and Representation on Behalf of our Members
The Chamber staff and member leaders work together
through the Issue & Policy Roundtable (IPR) and the Chambers of Commerce Alliance of Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties (formerly the Regional Legislative Alliance/RLA) to monitor and
review public policy. Our goal is three-fold: to promote
member businesses, protect our private sector from
excessive government mandates, and prepare the region
for a prosperous future.
The Issue & Policy Rountable meets monthly to
discuss matters that may be affecting business. This
issue-oriented group is the clearinghouse for
information that the Chamber may then take a position
on.
The Chambers of Commerce Alliance of Santa Barbara and Ventura Counties is an alliance of chambers
in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties that tracks and
takes action on regional and state issues.
Previously known as the Regional Legislative Alliance, the Chambers of Commerce Alliance of Ventura and Santa Barbara Counties has changed its name and identified the priority issues for which to advocate in 2010.
“Now more than ever, the business community needs to hold our lawmakers accountable on improving our business climate and creating jobs,” said Alliance Chair Kristen Amyx, who is president and CEO of the Goleta Valley Chamber.
“The Alliance stands ready to increase our presence in Sacramento and rally local chamber members to help us advocate for pro-business legislation.
”The Chambers Alliance also announced its 2010 officers and its policy platform for the upcoming legislative session. Besides Amyx, Tom Kelley of the Camarillo Chamber will serve as vice-chair as Nancy Lindholm of the Oxnard Chamber will continue to serve as the organization’s treasurer. Zoe Taylor of the Ventura Chamber had served as 2009 chair and had overseen many of the recent changes.
“We are excited about our 2010 team, which is determined to make advocacy even more of a priority,” said Amyx. “It is essential for chambers to stay on top of legislative issues, and the Alliance serves as a tremendous resource for all local chambers interested in public policy.
”Established in 2003, the Alliance has helped local chambers in both counties collaborate on a variety of issues of mutual concern such as transportation and higher employer costs. The Alliance employees a professional executive director who helps Alliance members take positions on bills and effectively communicate with key decision makers.
