Government Affairs

The workings of federal, state and local government and their effects on the Mahoning Valley business community are the focus of the Government Affairs division. The Regional Chamber is an advocate for local business interests and seeks to influence those at all levels of government to improve the economic vitality of Youngstown, Warren and surrounding areas.

The division provides the following services to accomplish its goals:

Government Affairs Council

Comprising a diverse group of local business leaders, the GAC is the eyes and ears of the Regional Chamber when it comes to politics and government and their effect on doing business. The GAC researches issues and offers opinions to Chamber leadership on the best actions to support local business.

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Grow Mahoning Valley

This unique partnership of infrastructure officials, business professionals, local government and labor from the Mahoning Valley works cooperatively to spur federal and state funding for transportation and other projects that promote local economic development.

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Public Policy Agenda

The Public Policy Agenda provides a roadmap for areas in which the Chamber hopes to focus its attentions. Topics covered under the current Public Policy Agenda include education and workforce development, military affairs, economic development and other areas of interest and concern for local business.

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Government Affairs Council Programs & Events

The Government Affairs Council (GAC) launched its monthly Lattes & Legislators series in July 2017 with State Senator Joe Schiavoni. The series, sponsored by ms consultants and Seven Seventeen Credit Union, quickly became a rousing success and has been renewed for 2018-2019. The program provides for direct communication between government officials and community members.
Also among the GAC programs held annually is the Salute to Elected Officials Wine Tasting which attracts many statewide political officeholders and candidates, as well as approximately 200 attendees.
Roundtables hosted by the GAC provide Chamber members with direct access to state-and-federal-level policymakers so that the Valley's priorities could receive support in Columbus and Washington.

Click here to view all Chamber events & programs

State Boards & Commissions

Boards and commissions allow Ohio citizens to participate in the workings of the state without running for office. These boards and commissions are overseen by the state and vary in activity and scope. From the arts and healthcare to the environment, all areas of interest are represented. When locals serve on state boards and commissions, the community benefits from the increased exposure and opportunities that arise from local participation.

Click here to see a complete list of seats on these boards and commissions, as well as term expiration dates.