President's Report January 26, 2026

After more than 30 years working in advocacy in North Carolina, one lesson has remained constant: a strong business climate depends on steady leadership, and steady leadership is rooted in informed and engaged voters.
 
On February 10, the Greater Wilmington Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Cape Fear REALTORS®, the Wilmington–Cape Fear Home Builders Association, and BASE, will host a Candidate Forum featuring candidates running in the 2026 New Hanover County Board of Commissioners and Board of Education contested primaries. This forum provides our members with a valuable opportunity to hear directly from candidates ahead of the Primary Election on March 3, 2026. To register for this event, please click here.
 
As a general reminder, this Chamber does not endorse any candidates. Our role has always been to serve as a trusted, nonpartisan convener, creating space for respectful dialogue and thoughtful questions while ensuring our business community has access to the information it needs to understand the issues and perspectives shaping our region. 
 
Local elections matter greatly to the business community. Decisions made by county commissioners and school board members have lasting implications for workforce development, infrastructure, education, and the long-term economic health of our communities.
 
I encourage our members to participate in this forum, engage constructively with candidates, and remain involved in the civic process. Informed participation strengthens decision-making and contributes to effective governance and a stable, competitive business environment.
 
I also encourage you to stay engaged year-round by attending our Public Policy Committee meeting. If you would like to receive regular invitations to these meetings, please let me know so we can add you to the email distribution list. Over decades of advocacy work, I have seen firsthand that consistent engagement, not just during election cycles, is what ensures the business voice is informed, respected, and heard.