Yesterday, the Charleston Metro Chamber played a role in a historic moment for our region. It is a first for us to have welcomed mayors from the Town of Summerville, the City of North Charleston and the City of Charleston who have all been newly elected at the same time. It’s a new dawn and a new day for the region.

Mayor Reggie Burgess, Mayor William Cogswell and Mayor Russ Touchberry participated in a panel discussion with members as part of the Chamber’s new “Impact Series.” This series was designed to create space for discussion focused on various regional issues and how the business community can make an impact. Natalie Hauff, a Chamber board member, facilitated the panel and asked each mayor what they had experienced and learned since being sworn in.

Mayor Burgess shared his priorities for small businesses and citizens, especially in underserved communities. The mayor hopes to increase economic development opportunities for small businesses in North Charleston. He also touched on the attainable housing crisis and the impact it has on youth. Mayor Burgess also pointed out the partnership he has with the Chamber’s Government Relations team as a testament to our organization’s dedication to this work.

Mayor Cogswell emphasized people being at the center of what makes the City of Charleston such an attractive and vibrant place. He is focused on addressing many of the challenges that people who live in the city currently face, like housing attainability and flooding. Mayor Cogswell also emphasized the importance of our region working with officials at the State House to help provide funding for the communities that create a large economic impact for the entire state.

Mayor Touchberry highlighted his commitment to creating a focused plan and vision for Summerville, as the town has experienced continued growth. Mayor Touchberry also discussed the need for improved transportation and mobility, along with a desire to work with municipalities bordering the town to ensure citizens do not see a drop off as they move throughout the region.

Throughout the panel, each of the three mayors highlighted the importance of collaboration between not only municipalities, but also with the private sector. Our region is faced with real issues and it will take the combined efforts of our businesses, local elected officials and other key stakeholders to achieve real solutions.

We’re incredibly thankful for Mayor Reggie Burgess, Mayor William Cogswell and Mayor Russ Touchberry for engaging with our members in such an impactful way. We look forward to supporting their administrations as they work to drive our region forward.