Governmental Affairs Council 2007-2008 Business Plan
Dave Dalzell Chair

MISSION

Be involved in political processes and issues of interest in our region.  Provide direction and resources to enhance Abilene businesses and quality of life, and assist in marketing community assets.

MEMBER INPUT

Input from Chamber members helps direct the efforts of the Governmental Affairs Council.  Surveys may be used to discover areas of interest and importance to the members, and identify issues that may merit action by the Chamber (N).

UPCOMING LEGISLATIVE ISSUES

Local, regional, state and national legislative issues are continually emerging.  The Governmental Affairs Council helps monitor upcoming legislative issues that may have an impact on Chamber members and the Abilene community (R).

ADVOCACY PROCESS

When issues are identified that may have an impact on Chamber members, the Governmental Affairs Council oversees an advocacy process that determines whether the Chamber will take a public position on an issue.  The advocacy process ensures that Chamber members have an opportunity to voice their opinions before the Chamber takes action.

QUARTERLY COMMUNICATIONS MEETING

The Governmental Affairs Council hosts quarterly meetings with area leaders in order to facilitate communication and cooperation.  The quarterly meetings provide an opportunity to discuss current issues in a non-attribution setting.

ENGAGE WITH ELECTED OFFICIALS

The Governmental Affairs Council assists the Chamber in communicating with elected officials, and seeks to familiarize officials with the mission and function of the Chamber.  The Council participates in the West Texas Legislative Summit (R) and the Texas Midwest Community Network (R).  It also assists in hosting events for candidates and elected officials upon request:  Breakfast with the Congressman (Neugebauer), Legislative Forums (Representative King) (N), Town Hall (Senator Hutchison).