Advocacy

The Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce acts as a regional voice for advocacy. It represents business interests and viewpoints on current issues facing the Valley. The Chamber is dedicated to keeping its members informed of governmental issues on the local, state and federal levels by holding Joint Legislative Forums throughout the year as well as other advocacy events.

Standing atop an overlook, local, state and federal officials work together with Chamber leaders to find a solution for proposed Central Susquehanna Valley Thruway.

Pictured (L-R): State Rep. Lynda Schlegel Culver; Shamokin Dam Mayor Joe McGranaghan; Robert DeSousa, state director for US Sen. Pat Toomey; Chamber President Charlie Ross; and PennDOT Engineer Matt Beck.

Transportation – The Chamber supports efforts for an effective and efficient transportation infrastructure and knows that this is pivotal to the economic success of the Valley. It is a strong supporter of the Central Susquehanna Valley Thruway Project and works closely with PennDOT officials to resolve transportation issues that impact businesses and general safety. The Chamber's Transportation Committee was re-activated in 2009 and is ready to address the Valley's transportation needs and concerns. Meetings are held the second Friday of every month at Hoss's Steak & Sea House and are chaired by Joe McGranaghan.

Contact Charlie Ross for more information.

Education – The Chamber supports public and private schools, post secondary educational institutions, and quality educational programs to maintain a strong work force that is adequately equipped to handle the economic and social needs of the Greater Susquehanna Valley. These programs are necessary and vital for the region’s continued growth. The Chamber does so through many channels, including its Business & Education Committee, co-chaired by Chad Cohrs and Elaine Sautner, both of Selinsgrove Area School District. The committee meets on the first Wednesday of every month in the Chamber Business Center.

Contact Jenny Williams for more information.

Local Government –The Chamber works with local government officials to make conducting business in the Greater Susquehanna Valley the best it can possibly be.

State and Federal Government – The Chamber studies state and federal issues, takes positions that encourage economic well-being in the Valley and effectively communicates the voice of business owners to the appropriate elected officials and government offices.

Governmental Affairs Committee – The Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber holds monthly Governmental Affairs Committee meetings. Co-chaired by Mike O'Keefe, of Evangelical Community Hospital, and Jeff Reber, of Mifflinburg Bank and Trust Co., the committee works to develop, promote and articulate the business viewpoint of federal, state and local issues that impact the health and vitality of business in the Greater Susquehanna Valley. The Committee meets on the first Friday of every month at various venues across the Valley.

Contact Charlie Ross for more information.

Government Officials Contact Information

U.S. Rep. Tom Marino -- R-10th District

106 Arch St.

Sunbury, PA 17801

Phone: 570-988-7801

Fax: 570-988-7805

U.S. Sen. Bob Casey -- D-PA

22 S. Third St., Suite 6A

Harrisburg, PA 17101

Phone: 866-461-9159

Fax: 717 231-7542