Advocacy
The Putnam County Chamber of Commerce is your voice for change, speaking out for reforms that will create jobs, attract investment to our region, improve your bottom line and build a promising future for our families and future generations. We have been, and will continue to be, actively engaged on a wide range of issues during legislative sessions and between. The Putnam County Chamber of Commerce’s Government Relations program identifies issues facing our business community and region. It provides education and advocacy on the priorities through its Government Relations Task Force and Economic Development Council.
2022 Legislative Agenda
Top Priorities:
- Ensure 100% of Putnam County residents have access to reliable, affordable high-speed communications connectivity.
- Support additional funding for workforce development certification programs.
- Continued support for Rodman Reservoir and oppose all efforts to restore the Ocklawaha River.
- Supports Welaka’s request for a new wastewater treatment plant.
Support funding for Quick Response Training Grant. Quick Response Training (QRT) funding allows employers to train employees and encourages them to continue growing in Florida.
Support funding for Incumbent Worker Training (IWT) This program provides employers with funds to train currently employed workers in an effort to keep their firms and workers competitive. The program addresses retraining to meet changing skill requirements caused by new technology, retooling, new product lines, and new organizational structuring.
Provide the resources necessary for small businesses to survive the COVID-19 pandemic and thrive during an economic recovery.
Enhance the ability of small businesses to find, hire, and retain qualified and willing employees.
Support efforts that protect businesses from costly and unnecessary regulations and mandates.
Create legislation assigning economic incentives for relocation and/or reinvesting in opportunity zones.
Support initiatives that attract and create high-wage jobs and bring capital investments to Florida.
Support reauthorization of the Qualified Targeted Industry Tax Refund Program, an important program in Florida’s economic development toolkit. This program expired on June 30, 2020.
Funds appropriated for Putnam’s Barge Port project – dredging, land acquisition to get prepared for maritime commerce once Shands Bridge barrier is removed.
Encourage and hasten construction of the First Coast Expressway, an important corridor that supports regional economic development and improves navigability of the St. Johns River.