Good morning!

When most people think about the Greater EMC Chamber, they probably think about our luncheons, ribbon cuttings, and networking opportunities. And while those are certainly important parts of what we do, there's quite a bit happening behind the scenes that you might not know about.

I thought I'd take a few minutes to share four things we're working on, why we're doing them, and how we hope they'll make a difference in our region.

We all see the growth happening around us. New businesses, new neighborhoods, new development, and more people choosing to call East Montgomery County home.

But how well do we really understand our local economy?

That's a question we've been working hard to answer.

We're developing our first State of the Economy report to establish a clearer picture of our region, including our businesses, workforce, economic activity, and opportunities ahead.

Why? Because I believe better information leads to better conversations, better decisions, and ultimately, a stronger community.

This has been a significant undertaking, and I'm looking forward to sharing the completed report with you.

Here's something else we've been looking into: voter participation in East Montgomery County.

Our community continues to grow, but are we participating in elections at a level that reflects that growth?

Through EMC Votes, we're examining voter participation and asking an important question: What's keeping people from voting?

This is a completely nonpartisan initiative. We're not interested in telling anyone how to vote. We want to better understand the barriers to participation and explore how we can encourage more people to make their voices heard.

Because I believe a growing community should have a growing voice in the decisions that affect its future.

If you've driven along I-69/US 59 lately, you've probably noticed some things that could use a little more attention, particularly around our major intersections.

Those intersections are gateways to our community. They're often the first impression visitors, prospective businesses, and investors have of East Montgomery County.

And first impressions matter.

I'm encouraged by the commitments the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has already made to improve the maintenance and appearance of these important gateways.

I'm now looking forward to reaching out to other community partners and asking them to make similar commitments within their respective areas of responsibility.

This isn't about trying to look like another community. It's about taking pride in our own and working together to make it the best it can be.

One thing I've learned over the years is that strong communities don't happen by accident. They need people who care enough to get involved and lead.

That's one of the reasons I'm so excited about Pathway to Leadership EMC.

This members-only program is about helping people discover more about the community where they live and work, build relationships with other emerging leaders, and recognize opportunities to make a difference.

And here's something you might not know: We have just a couple of seats remaining in our upcoming program!

If you're a Greater EMC Chamber member and have been thinking about participating, or know someone within a member business or organization who would benefit from the experience, I'd encourage you to take a closer look. I'd love to see those last seats filled!

I hope this gives you a little better understanding of what happens beyond the events at the Greater EMC Chamber.

Some of this work takes time. Some requires research, conversations, and bringing the right people together. And sometimes, progress starts with simply asking a question that hasn't been asked before.

I also want to take a moment to thank our newest Chamber members and the many businesses and organizations that continue to renew their membership year after year.

Your investment in the Greater EMC Chamber helps make initiatives like these possible. And while our members make that investment, the benefits extend well beyond our membership to the entire community.

I also want to recognize the East Montgomery County Improvement District (EMCID) for its foundational support of the Greater EMC Chamber. That ongoing support plays an important role in strengthening our organization and our ability to serve the region.

I often say that Chamber Membership Is Community Investment, and I hope these four initiatives help demonstrate exactly what I mean.

As always, I welcome your thoughts and ideas. If something I've shared sparks a question, an idea, or an opportunity to work together, I'd love to hear from you.

Thank you for being part of a stronger tomorrow together!

Proud to be EMC,

Mark Linabury

President & CEO

Greater EMC Chamber