House Resolution 316 By: Representatives Hitchens of the 161st and Burns of the 159th A RESOLUTION Recognizing February 10, 2025, as Effingham County Day at the capitol and saluting the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce; and for other purposes. WHEREAS, Effingham County borders on the Savannah River; includes three incorporated municipalities: Rincon, Springfield, and Guyton; has several smaller communities, including Meldrim, Faulkville, Pineora, Stillwell, Egypt, Clyo, Ebenezer, and Shawnee; and is widely recognized for its outstanding quality of life; and WHEREAS, with a shared vision for growth and prosperity, Effingham County has greatly increased collaboration among its municipalities, the County Commission, and key community stakeholders in order to position itself as the future of the Coastal Empire; and WHEREAS, Effingham County has further partnered with local schools, Savannah Technical College, and other educational institutions to enhance workforce development and provide students with opportunities to engage with growing industries; and WHEREAS, entities such as the Effingham County Health System ensure that access to high quality health care remains a cornerstone of the community, and the county's investments in vital infrastructure serve to bolster its growth and resilience; and WHEREAS, founded in 1986 to support existing businesses and attract new industry, the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce has long worked to ensure the county's economic strength and well-being through its mission of operating as a member-driven organization "focused on business advocacy and sustainable economic growth" in the region; and WHEREAS, for a number of years, the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce, in collaboration the Effingham County Industrial Development Authority, has sponsored Effingham Day at the Georgia State Capitol, providing a platform for engagement with state leaders and legislators; and WHEREAS, through their tireless efforts and steadfast commitment, Speaker Jon Burns, Senator Billy Hickman, and Representative Bill Hitchens have played a vital role in advancing Effingham County's legislative priorities, ensuring its continued economic and infrastructural development; and WHEREAS, Effingham County Day will once again be observed on February 10, 2025, continuing its tradition of strengthening ties between county leadership and the State of Georgia under the leadership of its CEO, Susan Kraut, and Chair, Kim Iler. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that the members of this body recognize February 10, 2025, as Effingham County Day at the capitol and extend to the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce their commendation for the chamber's many important contributions to the Effingham County community and the State of Georgia. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to Susan Kraut, CEO of the Effingham County Chamber of Commerce.