Tucson Metro Chamber Soon to Unveil New Public Policy Guide 

Exciting developments on the horizon! The Tucson Metro Chamber's Public Policy Guide, your voice translated into action, is nearing completion. This guide reflects the voices of our members, gathered through a comprehensive 5 stop listening tour across Pima County, committee collaboration, and expert consultations. It tackles six key issues crucial for your success in Tucson, shaped from the ground up.

But it doesn't stop there. We're committed to measuring our impact. We're developing metrics and key performance indicators to track our advocacy effectiveness and scorecards to assess how local legislative decisions line up with our policy goals.

This means the Tucson Metro Chamber team is more prepared than ever to champion your interests in a measurable, tactical, and impactful way. Stay tuned for the full unveiling of the guide!

Key Initiatives the Chamber Wants You to Know About: Shaping Tucson's Future Together 

Tucson's economy and community are constantly evolving, driven by crucial initiatives shaping our region's future. Join us in diving into key updates and advocacy efforts led and supported by the Chamber, impacting business, infrastructure, and public services across Tucson and Pima County. 

Chamber Receives Update on Water Policy

In January, Chamber staff attended the first Tucson Regional Water Coalition Meeting of the year, in line with our 2024 Public Policy Guide. The Coalition heard an update on the Governor’s Water Policy Council along with legislative updates. Aligned with our priorities, the Coalition aims to ensure a sustainable water supply, support economic vitality, and preserve the region's quality of life. Their mission involves long-range planning, maximizing water resources, and implementing best practices through collaboration with regional stakeholders. This highlights our commitment to responsible water management in Tucson. 

Governor Katie Hobbs' State Report

• Arizona Commerce Authority Reauthorization: We advocate for renewing the ACA, instrumental in economic growth by attracting companies, aiding existing businesses, and incentivizing job creation. Help advocate by contacting your local legislators.     
• HB2042 Food Preparation; Sale; Cottage Food: Committed to public health and fair regulations, we are working with the Tucson Restaurant Advisory Council to address concerns related to equity and food safety.  
• Outdoor Lighting Code Committee: The Chamber is continuing collaboration with industry members and local businesses to ensure a well-rounded approach to protecting our dark skies while ensuring safety and continued economic vitality. Chamber staff attended the latest Committee meeting on January 30th. An Outdoor Lighting Code webpage has been created, and a draft will be posted for public viewing within the coming months. The committee has current vacancies in the positions of Building Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Engineer Consultant, Lighting Design, and TEP Representative. Please contact clayton.trevillyan@tucsonaz.gov if you or someone you know is interested in participating.  
• TEP Midtown Reliability Project: The Chamber is a strong advocate for this project crucial for improved electric reliability, enhanced capacity, and increased resilience in central Tucson. Join us on March 5th at the Tucson Metro Chamber, or virtually, for an information session provided by TEP staff. You can register for the session here. For more information on the project and future open house dates, visit the Project webpage, you can also visit the Project webpage in Spanish.  
• City of Tucson Planning and Development Services Fee Increases: If adopted, the proposed rate change plan would go into effect July 1, 2024. The Chamber will actively engage in this process while keeping members informed. Members are encouraged to attend public town hall meetings for insights on revisions and to provide feedback before the April 9 Mayor and Council meeting. Read more about the services impacted and the increases here.   

Stay Informed and Take Action:

Sun Tran Comprehensive Operational Analysis: Learn more about proposed changes to Sun Tran services and offer your thoughts. The proposed changes will be presented to the City of Tucson Mayor & Council within the coming months, and the Mayor & Council will be provided with the opportunity to decide which of these proposed changes make the most sense for our community. Stay tuned for more information as this process moves forward. You can read the list of changes here.

Mark Your Calendar for State of the Region  

Mark Your Calendar for State of the Region: Attend this inaugural event for insights into Pima County's economic growth strategies. Space is limited, register here!   

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