Building Trust and Impact Together 

In a time of division, the Tucson Metro Chamber is a beacon of collaboration and progress. A recent Public Affairs Council poll highlighted the trust Americans place in businesses and associations. This reinforces the value of our collective efforts through the Chamber. By working together, our local businesses can amplify their impact and create a stronger community. 

The Chamber serves as your voice, advocating for your interests on critical issues. Here's a glimpse into some of our recent initiatives: 

Fare Free Transit: 

The Chamber expressed concerns about the City's fare-free transit policy in a recent Sunday op-ed. We heard from members about its impact on workforce mobility, retail crime, and the system's financial sustainability. We advocate for reinstating fares while maintaining pre-pandemic subsidy programs for vulnerable populations. 

Outdoor Lighting Code Update: 

The City of Tucson and Pima County are revising the Outdoor Lighting Code, impacting businesses across various sectors. The Tucson Metro Chamber has been monitoring this process diligently, since it holds significant implications for economic development, public safety, and our region’s attractiveness to businesses and residents. The Chamber encourages you to review the most recent draft of the ordinance HERE, along with the strike-out draft, HERE and share your feedback with us by April 12th.  

Engaging at All Levels: 

The Chamber works on local, state, and federal issues that affect our business community. We actively participate in the Arizona Chamber Executives (ACE) association, which shapes statewide policy agendas. Additionally, we track relevant legislation at the Arizona State Legislature. Earlier this month, ACE met at the Arizona State Capitol for a Chamber Advocacy Day. Our very own CEO Michael Guymon is this year’s ACE Chair, and he emceed the event that included moderating a discussion with Arizona House Speaker Ben Toma and Senate President Warren Peterson about issues critical to the state and to business. 

Bridging the Digital Divide: 

The Chamber, along with other partners, urged Arizona's Congressional Delegation to extend funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). This program helps bridge the digital divide by providing internet access subsidies to qualified households. 

Connecting Our Community: 

The Chamber regularly convenes local decision-makers to address critical issues. Recent discussions included: 

- University of Arizona's budget challenges with President Robbins 

- Crime, retail theft, and sentencing with Pima County Attorney Laura Conover 

- Chronic unsheltered homelessness with Mari Vasquez of the City/County Homeless Taskforce 

TEP Midtown Reliability Project: 

Chamber staff and members met with Tucson Electric Power (TEP) to discuss the Midtown Reliability Project's necessity and its impact on businesses and residents. Click here for a quick overview of the Project, to see if you’re in the project area, and how you can continue to make your voice heard later this month! 

Supporting Our Military: 

The Chamber's Military Affairs Committee (MAC) is a longstanding advocate for our military installations and personnel. We recently hosted a gathering with other military support organizations to coordinate efforts in 2024. 

Join Us! 

The Chamber invites you to a Meet & Greet with leaders from Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, the 162nd Arizona Air National Guard, and the Arizona Army Western Aviation Training Site on March 21st at 11:30 AM. This is a great opportunity to learn more about the MAC and how your business can contribute to our military community. 

Register today! Space is limited to 50 participants. 

We are stronger together. Let's continue building a vibrant and prosperous Tucson!