Chamber Policies for a Strong Economy
As the Arizona Legislature enters its 2012 session, the Tempe Chamber will work to develop an economy where your business will thrive. Our 2012 Arizona Policy Agenda creates a roadmap for the best ways of partnering with our elected officials and other organizations to create a healthy environment in which to do business.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
The long-term viability of the state is dependent upon the successful development of new and existing business and industry. Government should establish policies that provide incentives to foster a competitive business environment to increase growth and development opportunities.
Economic Development Tools
The Tempe Chamber supports allowing local governments to use economic development tools to attract new business and implement redevelopment programs, including tax increment financing, establishment of special districts to coordinate and implement economic redevelopment plans, creation of public/private partnerships, and targeted local incentives.
Educational Economic Development
Our educational institutions produce graduates for local businesses and bring a significant return to the Tempe and Arizona economy. The Chamber recommends lawmakers
consider the economic impact of funding for our educational institutions when drafting legislation.
Liability Insurance
Frivolous liability claims against business insurance drive up the cost of operating a business. The Tempe Chamber supports legislation that reduces frivolous lawsuits, requires claimants to prove that businesses were negligent prior to claim settlement, and reduces the number of frivolous malpractice suits brought against licensed professionals.
Tourism Funding
Tourism is integral to Arizona’s economy. The Chamber supports continued funding for Arizona tourism and exploration of alternative funding methods.
Workforce Development
The Tempe Chamber supports full funding for job training and workforce development, with priority funding given to training and development of the current Arizona workforce.
A quality education system is an essential part of a productive workforce. Working relationships between students, educators, administrators, government officials and businesses will build the most effective K-20 educational system to provide the business community with a workforce that is prepared to meet the challenges and demands that face business.
High Technology
The Chamber urges a greater emphasis on science, technology, mathematics and engineering in the Arizona public education system to enable greater competition in the global economy.
Higher Education Funding
The Tempe Chamber supports an »
Dave Long, Board Chair, Tempe Chamber of Commerce
equitable adjusted higher education formula funding based on student enrollment, retention and graduation rates.
K-12 Funding
The Tempe Chamber supports development of a simpler, transparent educational funding formula that maximizes the use of the taxpayers’ money.
Management Services
The Tempe Chamber supports incentives for joint purchasing among school districts that result in cost savings.
State Universities
The Chamber supports the current structure of the Arizona Board of Regents and opposes efforts to break Arizona State university’s Polytechnic campus off as a separate university.
Workforce Preparedness
The Chamber supports a greater emphasis on preparation for post-graduation employment.
EMPLOYEE RELATIONS
An educated, well trained work force is essential to maintain a vibrant economy. A supportive regulatory environment that provides the flexibility to explore and formulate ways for our workplace policies to create an “economy of opportunity” can address today’s challenges to both the employee and the employer and keep our state competitive into the future. State employment statutes and the state regulatory environment should foster, rather than mandate, such things as access to affordable workers’ compensation and unemployment compensation, while maintaining entrepreneurial innovation.
Immigration
The Chamber believes that immigration issues should be resolved at the federal level. The Chamber supports programs that provide for an adequate legal workforce while maintaining the integrity of our national borders, provide protection of the rights and benefits of legal residents, and protect businesses that operate in an open, above-board manner.
Right-to-work
The Tempe Chamber believes that it is critical that Arizona remains committed to being a “Right to Work” state in order to give us a competitive advantage in attracting new businesses.
Unemployment Compensation
The Tempe Chamber believes that current Arizona unemployment compensation laws adequately address the needs of the unemployed by providing temporary income replacement for workers who involuntarily become unemployed and are actively seeking full-time re-employment. unemployment compensation should encourage individuals to seek employment.
ENVIRONMENT
The Tempe Chamber of Commerce is committed to economic development and environmental protection. Economic development goals should not be achieved at the cost of our environment. Environmental preservation adds to the quality of life in the region and thus positively benefits the economy.
Business and environmental organizations share a common vision of public policies that protect the environment as well as the economy. Appropriate environmental policies can enhance the diversification of Arizona’s economy and expand the state’s growing biotech sector. Working cooperatively with all stakeholders in the evolution of environmental protection will not only share the responsibilities, but also benefit the environment.
Air Quality
The Tempe Chamber believes that any legislative measures to improve our air quality should provide businesses and citizens with incentives and a variety of practical options.
Cost-Based Energy
The Chamber supports low-cost power and recognizes the need for additional costbased energy sources. Any energy efficiency legislation should provide incentives and practical options for businesses.
Environmental Permit Process
The Tempe Chamber supports streamlining the environmental permitting process with an emphasis on faster application review.
State Regulatory System
The Tempe Chamber supports a state regulatory system that encourages voluntary compliance and incentives as an alternative to mandates whenever possible.
Water Conservation
The Chamber urges the department of Water Resources to promote statewide water
conservation and ensure coordination between active management areas.
Western Climate Initiative
The Chamber is opposed to Arizona’s participation in the Western Climate Initiative. Any greenhouse gas emission regulations should be addressed at the federal level.
The Tempe Chamber of Commerce believes that governments at all levels should strive to streamline processes and provide maximum service at minimal cost. The Chamber encourages State government to eliminate debt financing, increase oversight of agency budgets and to make the public reporting of state spending transparent.
Ballot Referendums and Initiatives
The Tempe Chamber supports efforts to reform ballot referendums and the initiative process, including permitting legislative changes to initiatives with voter ratification and requiring legislative council to review and title initiatives prior to signature collection.
Formula Review
The Chamber supports a legislative review and modernization of budgetary formulas, including those for AHCCCS and education.
Four-Year Senate Terms
The Tempe Chamber supports the concept of four-year terms for Arizona senators in order to provide continuity in the state budget and other processes.
Primary Election Date Changes
The Chamber supports moving Arizona’s primary election to a minimum of ninety days prior to the General Election.
Privatization of Services
The Tempe Chamber encourages subcontracting appropriate public services to private industry in an effort to increase service, reduce expenditures and avoid unfair competition with the private sector.
Sunset Legislation
The Tempe Chamber advocates enforcement of an automatic termination mechanism (sunset) on new and existing programs to provide ongoing examination and evaluation of state agencies, policies and programs.
Unfunded Mandates
The Chamber recommends that a fiscal analysis accompany mandated legislation that affects local and regional governments, and that provisions for funding be included as part of such legislation.
HEALTH INSURANCE
The passage of a federal health care bill has left much uncertainty in the business community; the future cost of care and its effect on operational budgets are dependent on as-yet unwritten rules. While we will monitor federal developments in order to educate businesses, there is aspects of health insurance costs and availability that are within the purview of the State.
Health Care Coverage Mandates
The Tempe Chamber opposes legislation that would require mandatory employerprovided health insurance benefits.
Health Care Exchange
The Chamber supports efforts to establish a state market based health care exchange as required in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.
Liability Reform
The Chamber urges significant tort reform measures to reduce the costs of health care and health insurance and encourage retention of a qualified health care workforce.
TAXES
The Tempe Chamber advocates for fair and cost-effective tax policies that are a part of a comprehensive tax plan to reduce the cost of doing business, thereby making the region more competitive for private investment and spurring economic growth.
Business Personal Property Tax
The Tempe Chamber strongly encourages increasing the business personal property tax threshold.
Business Tax Credits & Exemptions
The Tempe Chamber opposes legislation that would rescind credits and exemptions that currently support Arizona businesses.
Cost Shifts
The Tempe Chamber opposes shifts in State budgeting to local governments,
businesses and individuals resulting in increased fees.
Contractor Tax Collection
The Tempe Chamber supports the current means of contractor’s tax collections at the construction location, which allows growth to pay for itself.
Designated Funds
The legislature should honor the integrity of and restore revenues to special funds that were used over previous budget cycles to mask the shortfall in state revenue. If taxsupported funds are found not used for the intended purpose during frequent review, the tax and fund should be abolished.
Internet Taxes
The Tempe Chamber supports the exploration of a transaction privilege/sales tax on out-of-state Internet sales.
State Equalization Tax
The Tempe Chamber strongly urges the Legislature to permanently eliminate the state equalization property tax.
State Shared Revenues
The Tempe Chamber strongly opposes any effort to reduce the amount of state shared revenues to Arizona municipalities.
Transaction Privilege Tax Expansion
The Tempe Chamber opposes legislation that would expand the transaction privilege tax base to include activities currently not taxable in Arizona or a majority of the 50 states, including taxes on services.
TRANSPORTATION
The Tempe Chamber of Commerce
is a leading advocate for multi-modal transportation system. The efficient transportation of goods and people is critical to growing our economy. A balanced transportation system reduces pollution, relieves traffic congestion and increases the quality of life, availability, and efficiency of the area workforce.
Equitable Representation
The Tempe Chamber supports true equity in the distribution of resources and metro area representation on the State Transportation Board.
Federal Funding
The Tempe Chamber strongly encourages state government to work with the Arizona Congressional delegation to ensure that Arizona receives its fair share of federal transportation funding.
The Chamber is opposed to shifting or repealing funds currently designated for the development and maintenance of the East Valley regional transportation system. Transportation project construction should be based on congestion relief, air quality compliance and should be multi-modal.
High Capacity Transit
The Tempe Chamber of Commerce supports establishing a new, permanent, dedicated, state-wide funding source for public transportation.
The Tempe Chamber of Commerce supports the efforts to identify, fund and implement a commuter rail system as an effective solution to an overburdened road infrastructure.
Sky Harbor Governance
The Tempe Chamber opposes legislation which would create additional state oversight of Sky Harbor International Airport. The Chamber supports a centrally managed regional airport system that leverages the opportunities of metro airports capable of commercial service.
Public/Private Partnerships
The Tempe Chamber supports using public/ private partnerships in building a statewide transportation system that ensures the growing needs of the state’s infrastructure are maintained over time.
The Tempe Chamber represents more than 72,000 people employed by nearly 1,000 businesses. The Chamber works to create a strong local economy, represent business interest to government, promote the community, provide networking opportunities, and advocate for business.
For more information, contact Mary Ann Miller, President/CEO, at maryann@tempechamber.org or (480) 736-4280.
As members of the Tempe Chamber of Commerce, you and your employees have access to exclusive discounts and programs. Through a variety of partnerships and affiliations, we are able to provide our members with discounts on legal services, identity theft protection, e-mail marketing and more, as well as provide access to educational programs and services. Visit www.tempechamber.org to take advantage of these great benefits.
Stan and Jan Nicpon to be Honored with Spirit of Tempe award
Stan and Jan Nicpon will be presented with the Tempe Chamber of Commerce’s Spirit of Tempe Award at the 15th Annual Breakfast for Chamber Champions on Feb. 21 at the Fiesta Resort Conference Center. The award recognizes lifetime achievements of service, dedication and contribution to the community and honors hard work and strong commitment to improving the quality of life in Tempe.
The married couple has been active in Tempe for decades, working to better the community and the lives of its residents. A restaurant owner and businessman for more than 20 years, Stan has been a champion for locally owned businesses and their impact on the success of downtown Tempe.
Jan is deeply engaged with a number of local causes and organizations, including Friends of the Tempe Public Library and Tempe Connections, and was a driving force in the development and implementation of many of the city’s homelessness assistance programs.
“Stan and Jan Nicpon have contributed enormously to our community. Always active in local issues, charities and causes, they have made a powerful impact on Tempe, and we are proud to honor them,” said Mary Ann Miller, president and CEO of the Tempe Chamber of Commerce.
To attend the Breakfast for Chamber Champions where the Nicpons will be recognized, please call (480) 967-7891 or visit www.tempechamber.org.
Have you made your resolutions for 2012? Research shows that almost half of American adults make at least one resolution each year, but sadly only about 10% actually achieve what they set out to do.
Common resolution themes include:
• Health – losing weight, eating better, exercising more, getting more rest;
• Financial – spending money more wisely, paying off debts, getting a better job; and
• Self Improvement – becoming better organized, watching less television, volunteering more.
In setting goals for the year, we should emulate Janus and look back at the previous year and ask some pertinent questions. What did we do well? What were the reasons behind our successes? Are there areas upon which I can improve? Based upon this review, we can set some goals for the upcoming year. Experts recommend small goals that can be tackled in steps versus huge “shoot for the sky” goals. First, we should identify the goal we would like to achieve. Next, we need to formulate a step-by-step plan to accomplish our objective. Third, we should write down our goal and the steps we plan to take. For many, keeping a journal helps accomplish this objective. Fourth, realize that your plan should be a process. While we may be able to set our resolution in one day, it may
take hundreds of small steps throughout the year to actually achieve it. Next, it is important to remain flexible. It is impossible for us to predict the “curveballs” life will throw at us, so we may need to adjust our goals accordingly. Finally, we should recognize and celebrate the small successes we make throughout the year.
On that theme, I have identified a couple of simple goals for myself for the new year. First, I want to be a better listener – both in the office and at home. Sometimes, I may find myself reaching a conclusion to a particular issue prior to hearing all of the details. Other times, I may not give my full attention to the speaker as I find myself distracted by other issues. Second, I want to help the Chamber enhance its financial stability. This includes helping grow membership through highlighting the benefits of Chamber membership, as well as helping identify and hold successful events. On a more personal level, I need to eat a little bit better… specifically, lay off the salty snacks and sweets. I would love to end the year 10 pounds lighter than I started it. Now I just need to put together a plan to accomplish these goals!
Happy New Year and best of luck in achieving all of your goals during 2012!
until next time…
2012 business Excellence awards Finalists announced
The Tempe Chamber is pleased to announce the finalists for the 2012 Business Excellence Awards. These awards promote the advancement of responsible business leadership in the community and publicly recognize local businesses demonstrating a passion for excellence.
Through the awards, the Tempe Chamber identifies companies whose practices in business growth, employee development,
The 2012 finalists are:
ASDD / TCH
Assured Security document destruction (ASdd), a division of The Centers for Habilitation (TCH), offers support to individuals with disabilities, including behavioral or intellectual problems. TCH has been offering services, including in-home service, day treatment and employment services, to their customers since 1967. Employing disabled individuals, ASdd provides certified shredding and document destruction that has grown from 5,000 pounds in its first month of operation to 750,000 pounds monthly today. www.tch-az.com/
FOUR PEAKS BREWING COMPANY
Four Peaks’ mission is to provide consistent high-quality beer, food and service in a community based atmosphere. Founded in 1996, this regional brewery and brewpub is among the largest and most recognized and respected breweries in the state of Arizona. It brews over 72,000 kegs each year and owns and operates two restaurants in the Valley. In 2012, it will open a new brewery and tasting room in Tempe. www.fourpeaks.com
MICHAEL POLLACK REAL ESTATE INVESTMENTS
In 1973, Michael Pollack started off in real estate in his teens by building single family homes. Today, the company has 100 employees and has become one of Arizona’s largest privately held shopping center owners and operators. In addition, it owns a movie theater which often sees its guest count reach upwards of 4,000 on the weekends. www.pollackinvestments.com
community involvement and customer service exemplify excellence. This year’s seven finalists admirably embody those characteristics and are being recognized for that distinction.
The recipients of the 2012 Business Excellence Awards will be announced and honored at the Breakfast for Chamber Champions on Feb. 21 at the Fiesta Resort Conference Center. Please call (480) 967-7891 or visit www.tempechamber.org for details or to register.
Michael Pollack Real Estate Investments
Four Peaks Brewing Company
Assured Security Document Destruction (ASDD), a division of The Centers for Habilitation (TCH)
FRIENDSHIP VILLAGE
Friendship Village is a life care and retirement community located in Tempe. Since 1980, it has created a safe and friendly environment for seniors and has provided them with the services and amenities that they need for their overall well-being and happiness in the community. Their mission is to become a leader in senior lifestyle, and they continue to refine what their concept of “life care and worry-free retirement living” is. www.friendshipvillageaz.com
CHILDREN’S DENTAL VILLAGE
Children’s dental Village has been providing dental and orthodontic services for children and teens since 1973. Starting out with only two dental chairs, one office manager and one dental assistant when it was first established by dr. Alan Longfellow, this business has grown more than quadruple its original office size and practice in order to more effectively serve the needs of a rising number of patients. www.ChildrensdentalVillage.net
ALPHAGRAPHICS AT KYRENE AND ELLIOT
Since its founding in 1997, this AlphaGraphics location has grown to become a successful communications and printing firm which, through its services, customer support and dedication, is constantly adapting to the changing needs of its customers. The business has seen annual growth over the past 14 years and is expanding its services to include business solutions and marketing communications. www.us436.alphagraphics.com
SANTA BARBARA CATERING COMPANY
The full-service catering company offers services for weddings, gala dinners and other large or small events. In 1992, Pat Christofolo began the business with only three employees. Success came very quickly, and now the business has 150 employees along with multiple venues and family restaurants which promote local farmers and seasonally inspired menus. www.santabarbaracatering.com
Last year’s recipients of the award were Honey Moon Sweets and The Morrison Vein Institute.
Friendship Village
Santa Barbara Catering Company
Children’s Dental Village
AlphaGraphics on Elliot & Kyrene
Mary Ann Miller, President and CEO, maryann@tempechamber.org
Sean donovan, Vice President, Media and Program development, sean@tempechamber.org
Liz Garlieb, Membership development, liz@tempechamber.org
Shari Hodziewich, Membership development and Retention, shari@tempechamber.org
Renee Lopata, CAE, Senior Vice President, renee@tempechamber.org
Sachiyo Ragsdale, Communications director, sachiyo@tempechamber.org
Heidi Santos, Bookkeeper, heidi@tempechamber.org
Magdalena Warecka, director of Operations, magdalena@tempechamber.org
