September 06, 2007
James McCoy wants no surprises for Forsyth County businesses.
That's what he hopes the Public Policy Development Committee will accomplish. Comprised of a group of people "interested in public policy and key issues" affecting the community, the committee attempts to stay informed with government affairs to see what can potentially affect businesses.
McCoy said the committee attempts to be a voice for Forsyth County businesses on numerous issues, primarily, but not limited to water and transportation, and also to relay the information back to the business community.
"We want to be informed so we can be a thoughtful voice for the business community," he said. "And there's always so much going on."
AT&T Northeast Georgia District Manager Paul Chambers said there are always public policy issues affecting businesses, from taxes to right of way issues to education.
"The issues can change from month to month," he said. "Local government issues are affected by what happens at the state and federal level."
The business world is changing so rapidly, it's important for businesses to remain informed, Chambers said.
"What might be important to one industry is not important for another," Chambers said. "It's important for the local chamber to work closely with the local government as a partner. When issues arise, the chamber should always be there to present the business side."
Business will also prosper if they keep close ties with the educational system, Chambers said.
"The educational system is critical to the continued success of our business," he said. "We have a continued need for good employees to succeed and that's why we've always maintained a strong partnership with education."
The Forsyth County government has been involved this year in revising their Unified Development Code. McCoy said the committee is very interested in the changes and would likely attend the public hearings in the fall.
McCoy said the committee is also very involved in the Regional Business Coalition, which is comprised off all chambers of commerce in the Metro Atlanta area.
"We're very involved with this group," he said. "Transportation and infrastructure is always among the top issues. It is right up there with taxes and education regarding what businesses might look for if they are interested in relocating to Forsyth County."
McCoy said it is crucial for Forsyth County businesses to stay informed in transportation issues.
"As we continue to fall behind in transportation, businesses will be increasingly less likely to relocate to Forsyth County," he said. "That is why it is so important to address these issues now."
Chambers said Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber and McCoy have done "an incredible" job in keep businesses informed.
"Our company's history has always community minded," he said. "We feel it's the right thing to give back to the communities where we work. Obviously, our company is interested in providing a living and working environment that is satisfactory for our employees."
There are 1,100 AT&T employees living in Forsyth County, Chambers said.
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