Malvern, PA - February 18, 2026 - The Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry (CCCBI) hosted the 2026 State of the County breakfast, presented by Aqua, Bentley Systems and Lamb McErlane PC with nearly 250 chamber members, community partners and elected officials. This year, CCCBI honored James Logan, City Manager of the City of Coatesville with the J. Larry Boling Award for Excellence in Local Government and Becky Brain, Communications Director of the Chester County Commissioners’ Office, with the inaugural Distinguished Service to Chester County Award.

Action News Co-Anchor Matt O’Donnell moderated the lively discussion, sponsored by Cozen O’Connor, with Chester County Commissioners Josh Maxwell, Marian Moskowitz, and Eric Roe, answering questions on various economic, business and community topics related to Chester County.

Topics ranged from the county’s decision not to increase taxes compared to neighboring regions, public trust in the election system to their collaboration with state and federal officials. The conversation was candid, honest, and an important one for our business community and Chester County residents to hear.

“The Chamber is always pleased to facilitate thoughtful and substantive dialogue between our elected officials and the business community regarding the state of our county,” said Laura Manion, President and CEO of CCCBI. “Having bipartisan and honest conversations such as this is an important step in ensuring Chester County remains one of the best places to live, work, start a business, raise a family, and retire. Our goal is to create a space where business and government can engage constructively, ask meaningful questions, and work together toward shared solutions,” Manion added. “Strong communities are built on transparency, partnership, and a clear vision for the future, and I thank our Commissioners for participating in that dialogue. It was a wonderful program, honoring Becky Brain and James Logan for their service to our county. Both honorees exemplify the leadership, collaboration, and commitment to public service that strengthen our region.”

The J. Larry Boling Award for Excellence in Local Government, sponsored by Howell Engineering, honors a professional in the local government public sector of Chester County who has established excellence in their jurisdiction in the administration of government through economy, efficiency, introduction of sound business practices, and projects or initiatives that demonstrate innovation. James Logan’s dedicated efforts in service to the City of Coatesville over the past seven years have solidified his presence as a community advocate.

“Being connected to the legacy of J. Larry Boling is incredibly humbling because it challenges me to keep leading with compassion, understanding, and integrity,” said James Logan, City Manager, The City of Coatesville. “I will never forget that real impact is measured not by titles or accolades, but by how many lives you touch along the way. I am truly thankful for this distinguished recognition, and grateful to CCCBI for bestowing this wonderful award on me and the greater community I serve.”

For nineteen years, Becky Brain has served Chester County in public information and communications roles, retiring as Communications Director in January 2026. Her tenure in Chester County’s government has built new foundations and fostered connections for residents, businesses and officials alike. There is no greater recipient for CCCBI’s inaugural Distinguished Service to Chester County Award, sponsored by CTDI, than Becky.

“Leading communications for Chester County has been an incredible journey—one I wouldn’t change for anything,” said Becky Brain, Communications Director for the Chester County Commissioners’ Office. “Over nearly 20 years, I’ve seen leadership evolve, technology advance, and the role of media transform. Through it all, one thing has remained constant: the deep commitment of our County Commissioners, leadership, and staff to serving residents. It has been a privilege to be part of this work and to serve as the messenger. To do what I love—and to be recognized for it in this way—is an even greater honor.”

The Chamber would like to thank our generous presenting sponsors, Aqua, Bentley Systems and Lamb McErlane PC, in addition to all of our wonderful sponsors who supported this event.

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About the Chamber: The Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry is dedicated to serving the business community in Chester County by advocating for pro-business policies, providing networking opportunities, and supporting economic development. Our mission is to foster a vibrant and prosperous business environment through leadership, advocacy, and service.