CCCBI Members Engage with State Leaders
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Last Thursday, September 18th, members of the Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry (CCCBI) had the chance to sit down with some of Pennsylvania’s top policymakers for a meaningful exchange of ideas.
The afternoon began with a roundtable featuring Lieutenant Governor Austin Davis and Chester County Commissioners Chair Josh Maxwell. The conversation touched on a wide range of issues—from economic development and workforce challenges to housing and infrastructure needs. It was an excellent opportunity for Chamber members to share their perspectives directly with decision-makers. The discussion was open, friendly, and optimistic.
Later that evening, CCCBI members joined State Representative Jordan Harris, Chair of the House Appropriations Committee, for dinner and a deeper discussion. Rep. Harris and Lt. Gov. Davis both spoke candidly about the ongoing state budget impasse and their priorities moving forward, including bipartisan criminal justice reform and strategies to attract and retain employers in the state of Pennsylvania.
Throughout both events, Chamber members emphasized the importance of business tax reform, reducing regulatory burdens, improving access to childcare and housing, and ensuring reliable energy and transportation systems. These conversations helped reinforce the Chamber’s role as a strong voice for the business community.
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Legislative Forum with Seven State Representatives
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Early last Friday morning, CCCBI hosted our annual Legislative Forum with seven of our State Representatives at People's Light.
Over 100 CCCBI employer-members representing business community leaders gathered to hear from:
Representative Paul Friel, Representative Danielle Friel Otten, Representative John Lawrence, Representative Christina Sappey, Representative Melissa Shusterman, Representative Craig Williams and Representative Dan Williams.
This impactful event was both informative and interactive. Guests were encouraged to submit their questions at the event to help guide the discussion.
Between the community questions and our representatives' insights, we covered a wide variety of topics, including: healthcare, regulations, business taxes, infrastructure, childcare, education, transportation, energy and more.
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Throughout the event, one theme remained prevalent, the importance of bi-partisanship to address these critical issues.
In an often polarized political climate, it was clear that despite differing opinions at times, Chester County's representatives are committed to collaborative and respectful communication.
Despite the acknowledgement of challenges facing our community, the outlook towards the future was positive. With the feedback and support of our business community, change is possible.
Thank you to all who joined us, our sponsors Aqua and Bentley Systems, and thank you to our legislators who came to engage directly with the Chester County Chamber Membership!
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Shredding & E-Recycling for a Cause
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Over the weekend, CCCBI partnered with East Goshen Township and our sponsor, SERVPRO to host a Shredding & E-Recycling event!
Over 170 cars came through out lot to safely and securely dispose of their old documents and technology thanks to Wiggins Shredding and CCCBI Member, Sycamore International.
This event holds a special significance for our Chamber, as the proceeds will benefit our Chester County Chamber Foundation's Youth Leadership Program!
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By supporting YLP, you are providing 10th, 11th and 12th grade students from across the Chester County with a chance to build leadership skills, develop personal and professional networks, discover new career paths and so much more.
Thank you to East Goshen Township, SERVPRO, Wiggins Shredding, Sycamore International and everyone who took advantage of this event and donated to help us raise nearly $1000 to support YLP!
Help us continue to build on this momentum and donate today!
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Business Before Business with Lavazza
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There's no better way to start the day than with a cup of coffee!
That's why CCCBI stopped by Lavazza for our September Business Before Business, a monthly networking event that visits a variety of Member businesses across Chester County.
Over 50 CCCBI Members and friends of the Chamber came out on Tuesday morning to visit Lavazza's U.S. Headquarters right here in West Chester and make new connections, all before heading into the office.
Special thanks to Lavazza, our Board Member and host Dave Augustin, and everyone who joined us for a simply wonderful morning!
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Exclusive EITC Workshop With Chester County Futures
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This morning, Chester County Futures provided an informational session at CCCBI headquarters about the PA State Educational Improvement Tax Credit (EITC). An intimate group of attendees learned how to exercise agency over their tax dollars through presentations and asking informed questions.
We explored an important and often overlooked opportunity: the ability to redirect your state tax liability to directly support educational programs in our community. During the session, attendees gained valuable insights into how individuals and businesses can make tax dollars work smarter for students, schools, and the future. By the end of the session, many attendees were inspired by the idea that taxes don’t have to feel like a loss, but can be a powerful tool for change, equity, and empowerment in education.
Thank you to everyone who attended!
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From SEPTA to Small Business: The Ripple of PA's State Budget Stalemate
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Pennsylvania is one of two states without a completed 2025-26 fiscal year state budget. It has been almost 90 days since the state constitutionally mandated deadline of June 30th, and negotiations are glacial.
Governor Josh Shapiro aimed to alleviate the most significant obstacle by creating a short-term, two-year funding plan for SEPTA and the Pittsburgh Regional Transit. Shapiro reluctantly diverted infrastructure capital funds to cover operating expenses, preventing immediate service cuts and fare hikes. However, struggles persist for transit systems without dedicated recurring revenue, and this movement prevents a permanent funding solution from being implemented until 2027.
The partisan standstill persists between the Democratic Governor's office, the Democratic-controlled House, which has a one-vote majority, and the Republican-controlled Senate. Apparently, the budget negotiations remain at a gridlock primarily over the spending amount of the state budget. Shapiro's original proposal called for a $51.5 billion expenditure, but. Senate Republicans, such as Senator Dawn Keefer, have stated their desire for a budget no larger than last year's $ 47.6 billion spending plan, aiming to maintain reserves for the state's sustainability. House Democrats advanced a measure for $49.9 billion, lower than Shapiro’s original proposal.
Republicans have emphasized their priorities as reforming Medicaid and SNAP programs; however, a divide remains when determining how to regulate and tax skill games for new revenue. These disagreements are slowing budget completion. Democrats have also voiced their priorities, requesting new funding for education. Simultaneously requesting more investments in housing, Medicaid, and health and human services. Democrats also aim for policy achievements, such as increasing the minimum wage and reforming cyber charter schools.
It's essential to note that while the initial impacts of the budget impasse were minimal, the stalemate is beginning to affect Pennsylvania communities. Some counties that rely on state dollars for human services are now having to borrow funds to keep programs running, incurring interest costs that are unlikely to be reimbursed. Services include child welfare programs, senior care services, public health departments, and addiction treatment programs. Nonprofits, which often rely on state contracts, are now being paid late, forcing the organizations to either cut staff or dissolve programs entirely.
Some school districts are also feeling the impacts; those dependent on state aid are delaying textbook purchases, reducing afterschool programs, and preparing for shortages. Meanwhile, while SEPTA and Pittsburgh Regional Rail are temporarily funded, smaller rural transit agencies may need to increase fares and potentially cut shared ride services, which would reduce transportation options for seniors and individuals with disabilities in the commonwealth.
The budget impasse and lack of negotiation conversations act as an example of the split legislature within the Commonwealth, with Pennsylvania one of only 4 states that have similar divided governments. Last year, Senate Republicans agreed to a higher spending number in exchange for a new school voucher program; however, Shapiro vetoed the provision as pressure from the House mounted, leading to a lack of trust from Senate Republicans. Both House Democrats and Senate Republicans feel wary of unmet promises without guarantees.
While the majority of Pennsylvanians have yet to feel the impact of the budget impasse, as government offices remain open and state workers continue to be paid, legislators are not facing the public outcry they have historically faced. Shapiro is on the ballot for 2026, as are all House members and half of the Senate, with both parties strategically positioning themselves as the election approaches.
For PA employers, the consequences of the stalled negotiations are potentially serious. Small companies with contracts from counties, schools, and nonprofits are among the first to feel the strain when delayed or reduced payments impact their cash flow. Vendors providing food, supplies, and transportation to public institutions often fail to receive payment on time, and local service providers face declining demand as schools and counties reduce their budgets. Rural businesses experiencing reductions in transit limit senior and disability travel opportunities, reducing access to local shops, services, and overall decreasing customer traffic.
Large employers, including those in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, which are still uncertain about their long-term sustainability, feel threatened by potential decreases in workplace reliability. This is because employees in all sectors depend on SEPTA and PRT to transport them to work every day. Education funding uncertainty also begins to impact businesses, as employers seek to attract and retain employees who value strong public schools for their families. However, underfunding risks may have consequences for the Commonwealth's competitive edge. Corporations seeking expansion may also be hesitant to expand into PA if the budget impasse continues to signal long-term financial and political risks, compared to the 48 states that consistently pass budgets on time.
The budget impasse creates uncertainty affecting both small and large businesses alike. Gridlock creates a struggle to predict regulatory and tax environments that could operate in the near future. Entrepreneurs are facing financial strain, and state-funded organizations are beginning to delay payments. Meanwhile, employers face potential risks, including an unreliable workforce, uncertain education investments, and unforeseen policy shifts. Unless an agreement is reached soon, the state risks losing economic competitiveness, struggling with consumer confidence, and may deter investors from feeling that Pennsylvania is an environment conducive to long-term growth.
On September 22nd, the Senate announced October 6th, 7th, and 8th as session days in an attempt to keep negotiations moving forward; however, the budget impasse remains unpredictable and subject to change at any moment.
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Madi’s on a Roll is a woman-owned small business based in Exton and Phoenixville, PA, specializing in homemade specialty egg rolls. What started as a passion for baking and cooking quickly turned into a way to share food with others in a fun, unique, and convenient way.
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Every egg roll is hand rolled and packed with homemade fillings. While most people think of egg rolls as a takeout side dish, we’ve reimagined them as the main event. Our flavors range from classics like Philly Cheesesteak and Buffalo Chicken to creative favorites like Apple Pie or Bacon, Egg & Cheese.
We’ve grown by bringing our food directly to the community. We first started as a mobile food vendor, using a canopy tent, some coolers, and a portable fryer to serve our egg rolls at local events, breweries, and wineries. From there, we began selling our rolls frozen at local farmers markets throughout Chester County.
In 2023, we opened our first store in Exton and, shortly after, expanded into Phoenixville. At our stores, you’ll find a wide variety of flavors, homemade sauces and dips, and our fan-favorite egg roll chips.
Looking ahead, we’re excited to continue growing and sharing our love of egg rolls with even more people.
Whether it’s stocking up on frozen rolls at a farmers market, enjoying a meal in-store, or ordering a party tray for friends, every purchase helps us support our family, our team, and the local partners who make Madi’s on a Roll possible.
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We’d love to hear from and highlight your business! We are seeking member spotlight stories to include in our weekly newsletter!
Email your news to abby@chescochamber.org
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