Last week, Sharon Mayer, Patti McKee and I met with our respective peer group from the Frisco, McKinney and Plano Chambers of Commerce.  The purpose of that meeting was to begin discussing common issues and concerns facing our business communities.  As I am sure everyone understands, the thinking is that our combined voices will be stronger and resonate more loudly than any one voice could.
 
It did not take long to identify the following issues:
 
1.                  Transportation (regional needs for mass transportation)
2.                  Inadequate highway systems to serve continuing growth in Collin County
3.                  Air quality
4.                  School funding
5.                  Health care funding for the indigent population
 
Additional discussion centered on the thought that if there was a combined legislative agenda, it would better serve the greater Collin County area.  Thus it was suggested the governmental affairs committee chairs of each Chamber begin meeting to discuss legislative positions.
 
In summary, our meeting was a good beginning and helped establish the foundation for creating synergy for the four Chambers to work together to better serve our business community.  Stay tuned in for more reports of future meetings.