fbpx

Advocacy

Local Advocacy Priorities

Local Advocacy Priorities

The Cobb Chamber is dedicated to fostering a vibrant business environment, sustainable growth, and enhanced quality of life in Cobb County. Since its inception, the chamber champions advocacy at the local, state and federal levels on behalf of its members – from sole proprietors to global entities. As the county continues to flourish inside the number one state to do business for the 11th year, it is vital to be laser focused on advocacy priorities that are developed at the member level and from key stakeholders.

This document outlines key policy areas that guide our engagement at the local level and enhance our efforts at the state and federal level. These priorities aim to address top business concerns, promote economic development, and ensure Cobb County remains a competitive and desirable place to live, work, and do business.

 

Economic Competitiveness and Business Growth

  • Support the county’s current competitive tax environment which includes a sustainable millage rate that maintains a competitive advantage and encourages business creation,
    expansion, retention, and recruitment.
  • Support a timely and efficient permitting system covering the building department, water systems, Cobb DOT, and fire marshal offices.
  • Support land-use policies designed to facilitate and encourage commercial and industrial activities while balancing community needs.
  • Promote the strategic redevelopment of underutilized properties countywide to revitalize communities and foster business growth.
  • Promote fair and competitive tax policies and incentives for small business and entrepreneurial growth as well as commercial and industrial entities.
  • Support open communication, collaboration and progress on the creation of a Unified Development Code (UDC) that streamlines development processes and simplifies regulations.
  • Support regional collaboration to align economic development and infrastructure plans with surrounding communities.
  • Support ongoing initiatives of the Cumberland CID, the Town Center CID, and the Gateway Marietta CID which complement infrastructure development, business growth, and quality of
    life improvements.
  • Support all partners to place Cobb on a global stage for major events.
  • Support efforts to reduce regulatory burdens to operate a business in Cobb.

 

Quality of Life

  • Advocate for enhanced public safety measures to protect residents, businesses, and visitors, which includes the recruitment and retention efforts of the public safety workforce.
  • Support the Cobb County School District and Marietta City Schools’ efforts to enhance school quality that supports workforce development and attracts relocating workforce.
  • Support Cobb County School District and Marietta City Schools’ efforts to expand college and career academies and involve more businesses in their education/operation.
  • Support the renewal of E-SPLOST ballot measures that benefit both public school systems.
  • Support WorkSource Cobb to provide workforce solutions for individuals and businesses.
  • Encourage efforts to increase housing options that support the growing workforce in Cobb County.
  • Support policies that create recreational activities and enhance community character.
  • Encourage collaborative efforts involving county, cities, and safety net providers that leverage grant opportunities available through government agencies, businesses, philanthropies, and non-profit organizations that aim to improve access to quality healthcare.
  • Empower local non-profits to address the county’s unsheltered population.

 

Infrastructure and Transportation

  • Support the continuation and strategic use of SPLOST renewal to fund critical infrastructure and community projects.
  • Support investments in strategic sewer investments to support business and community growth as we accommodate population growth, commercial development, and maintain quality of life.
  • Support water and stormwater investments that improve infrastructure, ensure equal services for all users, and maintain a fair financial structure based on user benefits.
  • Advocate for improved transportation infrastructure to support commercial activities.

 

Military and Defense Industry

  • Support infrastructure improvements, such as road and utility upgrades near the base, to enhance access and operational efficiency.
  • Support local zoning policies that facilitate workforce housing and commercial development to attract and retain military personnel and aerospace businesses.
  • Support city and county partnerships with Dobbins to promote job fairs and training programs, ensuring a skilled workforce for the base and partners.