Local business leader discusses economic development with Gov. Moore

SALISBURY, Md. A local business leader got the ear of Maryland’s governor last week. Bill Chambers, president and CEO of the Salisbury Area of Commerce was invited to Governor Wes Moore’s (D – Md.) office on Friday to discuss economic development.

Local Leader Gets Governor’s Ear

Chambers represents the Federation of Maryland Chambers through the Maryland Chamber of Commerce. He said the sub-group represents smaller and mid-sized chambers in the state.

“Before our general meeting, the governor invited me to his office to discuss his economic agenda and garner support among the business community. We had a frank discussion … There are some encouraging signs,” Chambers shared.

The conversation was robust, Chambers said. They covered topics like how the business community will fare as the state fights through a $3 billion budget deficit.

“The governor understands that we can’t tax or cut our way out of the budget deficit that Maryland is facing. The governor fully recognizes we need to grow our state’s economy,” Chambers said.

“Concerted efforts” to Make State More Competetive

Chambers applauded the governor’s “concerted efforts” to make the state more competitive in doing business. In Dec. 2024, Gov. Moore enacted several such initiatives through Executive Order 01.01.2024.39.

In the past, Chambers has called the state “woefully uncompetitive” in terms of its business sector. He said Gov. Moore’s focus on strengthening the state’s capability to be financially stronger is promising.

Executive Order Actions to Bolster Business

The order formed the Governor’s Economic Competitiveness Subcabinet. The 16-member group is tasked with providing advice to the governor. It also recommends policies, regulations, strategies, and actions to strengthen the state’s economy. It also tracks the progress of interagency implementation of the Economic Strategic Plan approved by the Maryland Economic Development Commission.

The executive order also established the Governor’s Office of Business Advancement under the state Department of Commerce. It provides concierge, white-glove service to businesses seeking to relocate or expand in Maryland. The services include assistance with navigating state permitting requirements, troubleshooting issues with state agencies, and identifying financial incentives to close deals.

Additionally, the order directs the Department of Commerce to coordinate economic development, marketing, and branding efforts with local governments. The department, under the initiative, develops strategies to bolster those efforts.

The order also directs a comprehensive review of the Business Tax Credit and Financial Assistance and Incentive programs. The Governor’s Economic Competitiveness Subcabinet is developing methods and return on investment analyses. Certain business licensing programs are also being evaluated. They include the Charter Business Services at the State Department of Assessments and Taxation and the Minority Business Enterprise Certification Program at the Maryland Department of Transportation.

Looking Ahead

“(It’s) an aggressive agenda. I was glad that he had asked for a meeting to discuss this because it’s something that we’re sharing with our members. I think the rest of the chambers of commerce across the state are doing the same. We need to support this agenda,” Chambers said.

Looking ahead, Chambers said he is excited to see what other initiatives may come down from the Governor’s Office.

“He fully recognizes that as much support as his office can sustain toward the development, growth, and protection of our assets is key to this economic growth agenda,” Chambers said.