The Greater Vancouver Chamber of Commerce has served the Southwest Washington Business Community since 1890. Through collaboration and participation in the public process, the Chamber provides policy analysis and research, leadership and action through its Public Affairs Committee, Board of Directors and professional staff on a variety of issues.

Shared Business Prioritiesfor the 2010 Washington Legislative Session 

Southwest Washington’s leading business organizations believe it would be irresponsible to make broad demands for new economic development, transportation and education in the face of drastic cuts in state basic services. We believe the Priorities of Government (POG) process established in 2002 deserves renewed scrutiny as the Legislature adjusts its current and future spending limits. Jobs and economic vitality remain essential to the economic recovery of our state and region.  The “Shared Business Priorities for the 2010 Washington Legislative Session” are based on these beliefs: 

 ·         Investment incentives are essential for development and revitalization efforts and to attract private sector jobs and investment.

·         Decreasing corridor and arterial congestion supports economic prosperity.

·         Increased accessibility to higher education is crucial to developing a skilled workforce and attracting new business investment.

 Economic Development 

§  Maintain statewide Associate Development Funding, as currently budgeted by the Legislature.

§  Pass HB 2130 as currently adopted by the House of Representatives to support the recruitment and expansion of renewable energy firms to southwest Washington and the State.  

Transportation 

• Support the proposed Columbia River Crossing (I-5 Bridge) project and advocate for its funding.

• Higher education cannot withstand further budget reductions and continue to meet the needs of our changing economy.  If additional budget cuts are forced, new revenue opportunities must be offered. 
  
• Protect the future of our communities by fully funding K-12 public education through a sensible approach to education reform without creating any additional unfunded mandates.

Additional resources:

Clark County Long Range Planning

Board of Clark County Commissioners

Comprehensive Plan proposed Implementing Ordinances
(of particular interest to business are the Mixed Use District, Employment Center District and Urban Holding Districts)

Contact Clark County

Columbia River Economic Development Council

Southwest Washington Workforce Development Council

Workforce Explorer: Clark County Labor Market Information provided by the Washington State Department of Employment Security

Regional Transportation Council

City of Vancouver

C-TRAN

Identity Clark County

Port of Vancouver

Port of Camas-Washougal

Port of Ridgefield

Click on the links below for more information:

Association of Washington Business

Washington Policy Center

Washington Ports

National Small Business Association