For the past several years, the Amherst Chamber of Commerce has worked to ensure that we are truly representative of our expansive membership, which reaches over 75 zip codes. We have had the great fortune to represent large companies that employ thousands of employees across the East Coast, mid-size, family-owned companies that have proudly called Western New York home for multiple generations, small businesses, and many solopreneurs. Each of the companies we represent faces a different challenge in its day-to-day operations, but they remain committed to creating a more robust Western New York economy, and it is our job at the Chamber to ensure that their voices are not only heard but also amplified.
Earlier this month, we hosted a candid roundtable with executives and owners from varied industries to address the ongoing uncertainties stemming from fluctuating tariff policies and related court decisions. What made this roundtable unique was that we welcomed Governor Kathy Hochul to our office to hear firsthand from these businesses. Every business shared their personal challenges with uncertainty, and unfortunately, one even disclosed a 10% reduction in staffing. The Governor was attentive and engaging during the discussion and shared her thoughts on how she would fight to address the expressed needs of these businesses. The Governor has always been available to hear the needs of our members, and her history with our organization dates back to her time as Erie County Clerk.
That same week our office hosted Governor Hochul, we also hosted a roundtable discussion with newly elected Buffalo Mayor Sean Ryan. Mayor Ryan, who previously served in the State Senate and represented the Town of Amherst, met with 25 Chamber business executives to discuss the city of Buffalo's current financial challenges. Mayor Ryan addressed budget shortfalls, the lack of quality services, and the need to improve city assets and infrastructure. While the information was at times eye-opening, the conversation centered on how to ensure the city is on the right track for future growth.
In support of Women’s History Month, earlier this month, Dr Adiam Tsegai and her team at SUNY Erie hosted our March ProLIFT in their restaurant, the Erie Room at ECC North Campus. The Women Who Lead, Turning Purpose into Power conversation celebrated that there is power in every voice. Recognizing our women of years’ past and our women of present, we are appreciative of the impact that they contribute to our region and to the Chamber. Thank you.
View the images from the event here.
What shouldn't be lost on anyone in our community is the need for us to lift each other up. The success of the Amherst business community should not be at the expense of our neighboring city of Buffalo, or the towns. Likewise, Buffalo's resurgence should not be at the expense of the Town of Amherst. Our region has tremendous assets that should be leveraged, and our elected leaders, business owners, and citizens should all find ways to complement what our region offers. That is why it has been an honor and a privilege to lead this incredible organization over the years. We not only have grown our membership every year, but we also continue to bring our community leaders together for thoughtful, meaningful conversations on how we can do better. We strive to have the necessary discussions and look for ways to bring people from all walks of life together. We’d love to hear from you; please do not ever hesitate to reach out, and please remember my door is always open.
