HR 1169: The Effingham County Chamber of Commerce, the Effingham County Industrial Development Authority, and their partners in conjunction with Effingham Day at the Capitol; exceptional leadership, collaboration, and economic impact in Effingham County; recognize

House Resolution 1169

By: Representatives Burns of the 159th and Hitchens of the 161st

A RESOLUTION

Recognizing the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce, the Effingham County Industrial Development Authority, and their partners in conjunction with Effingham Day at the Capitol for exceptional leadership, collaboration, and economic impact in Effingham County; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce, working in partnership with the Effingham County Industrial Development Authority and other public and private stakeholders, has advanced a collaborative approach to economic development and business advocacy that supports job creation, investment, and long-term prosperity in Effingham County and the greater Coastal Empire region; and

WHEREAS, this collaborative work is showcased through Effingham Day at the Capitol, an annual initiative led and organized by the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce, which convenes state and local leaders, employers, educators, and community stakeholders to highlight Effingham County's economic momentum, workforce priorities, infrastructure needs, and regional opportunities; and

WHEREAS, the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce serves as the primary convener and driver of Effingham Day at the Capitol, providing leadership in business advocacy, legislative engagement, and regional coordination to ensure that Effingham County's voice and priorities are effectively represented at the state level; and

WHEREAS, under the leadership of Susan Kraut, President and Chief Executive Officer, the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce has expanded its impact through strengthened advocacy, workforce and leadership development initiatives, tourism and place-based promotion, and a sustained focus on balanced and strategic economic growth; and

WHEREAS, Susan Kraut has been recognized for her statewide influence through inclusion in the Georgia 500: Most Influential Leaders, reflecting her leadership in economic development, public-private partnership building, and civic engagement across the State of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, the Effingham County Industrial Development Authority, a presenting partner of Effingham Day at the Capitol, plays a critical role in advancing industrial recruitment, supporting major capital investment, and strengthening Effingham County's long-term economic competitiveness under the leadership of Brandt Herndon, Chief Executive Officer, who has likewise been named to the Georgia 500: Most Influential Leaders in recognition of that work; and

WHEREAS, the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors elected by the Chamber's membership and currently chaired by Brett Bennett, whose leadership reflects a strong commitment to sound governance, accountability, and service to the business community; and

WHEREAS, the leadership and convening role of the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Effingham County Industrial Development Authority and a broad network of stakeholders, has helped position Effingham County as a growing hub of opportunity while maintaining its character, quality of life, and long-term resilience.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body commend the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce, the Effingham County Industrial Development Authority, and their partners for their collaborative efforts and economic impact; recognize Effingham Day at the Capitol as a meaningful example of effective business advocacy and regional leadership; and honor the service of Susan Kraut, Brandt Herndon, and Board Chair Brett Bennett for their contributions to Effingham County and the State of Georgia. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce, the Effingham County Industrial Development Authority, Susan Kraut, Brandt Herndon, and Brett Bennett.