Local business leaders go grassroots to try to get voice in Columbia.
/ Lindsey Theis
Some forty members from the Grand Strand business community met Tuesday afternoon to discuss their priorities and concerns for when state lawmakers go back into legislative session in January.
The meeting was held by the Myrtle Beach and South Carolina Chambers of Commerce. Business members from Georgetown, Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, Little River and Pawley's Island were just some of those in attendance.
The groups goal was to come up with a definitive list to lobby state senators and representatives when the 2012 legislative session begins in January.
Myrtle Beach Chamber of Commerce Chairman Richard Singleton says Myrtle Beach has gained notoriety over the past decade. He adds, the tourism industry from the Grand Strand generates a large portion of the tax money for the entire state.
"Myrtle Beach is extremely important and is becoming more important every year. The tax dollars that we send to Columbia do a lot of great things for this state and I think as time has gone on our voice is more appreciated that ever," Singleton said.
The list of concerns brought up at the meeting included passing legislation introduced last session supporting recycling to introducing legislation to further developing a wind industry.
