Local Legislative Priorities, Small Business Health Benefits & Savannah’s Business Awards

This episode of *Savannah Chamber Connect*, presented by Vaden Automotive, we explore the issues, resources, and opportunities shaping Savannah’s business community. From the local legislative agenda and early voting to affordable health benefit options for small businesses, regional job opportunities, and the 2027 Chamber Business Awards, this episode highlights the people and initiatives helping our region thrive.   Advocacy Update: Local Legislative Agenda Jared Downs, Vice President of Governmental Affairs Bert Brantley, President & CEO, Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce   Jared Downs and Bert Brantley discuss early voting, the upcoming November 3 election, and the importance of reviewing sample ballots and researching candidates before heading to the polls. They also break down key priorities in the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce’s local legislative agenda, including development and government-imposed fees, regulatory enforcement, public safety, early childhood education, literacy, public transportation, infrastructure, and transparency in local SPLOST spending. Learn how these priorities affect businesses, residents, and the future of Savannah and Chatham County.   Superstar Member Spotlight: The Chamber SMART Plan Tasha Allen, VP, People and Corporate Citizenship and Marketing Director for the SMART Plan, Georgia Chamber Phillip Cerrillo Jr., Strategic Sales Consultant, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield   Providing employee health benefits can be challenging for small businesses. Tasha Allen and Phillip Cerrillo Jr. explain how the Georgia Chamber SMART Plan was designed to help Georgia businesses with two to 50 employees explore competitive health benefit options backed by Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield. They discuss eligibility requirements, employer contribution and employee participation guidelines, how the SMART Plan differs from traditional small-group and ACA plans, and the Chamber Plus option for larger businesses. They also share why employers should consider requesting a quote before assuming health insurance is out of reach.   Quick Questions with Erica: Rise Savannah’s Job Board Angela Hendrix, Chief Marketing & Public Affairs Officer, Savannah Economic Development Authority With Erica Backus, Vice President, Communications & Social Inclusion   Angela Hendrix shares how Rise Savannah connects job seekers and employers through a regional job board focused on career opportunities in the Savannah area. Originally focused on manufacturing, logistics, distribution, and assembly, the platform has expanded to include additional high-demand fields, including healthcare and hospitality. The conversation also explores the Succeed in Savannah marketing campaign, regional workforce development, and efforts to attract talent to Chatham County and surrounding communities. Discover how employers can post openings and job seekers can explore available opportunities. Visit risesavannah.com to learn more.   Inside the 2027 Chamber Business Awards Tina Hinson Mock, President of Member Services, Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce Sam Wilkins, Small Business and Events Manager, Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce   Tina Hinson Mock and Sam Wilkins explain how the 2027 Chamber Business Awards recognize the businesses, entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and community leaders making a difference in Savannah. They outline the five award categories, explain who can submit nominations, and share tips for telling a compelling nominee’s story. The conversation also covers the November 15 nomination deadline, the selection process, and the recognition winners receive, including a professional public relations package, promotional materials, event photography, a video interview, and a billboard opportunity.   IMPORTANT LINKS: Learn more about the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce Explore upcoming events MEET OUR PRESENTING SPONSOR: VADEN IN THE COMMUNITY | Vaden Automotive SAVANNAH CHAMBER CONNECT IS PROUDLY PRODUCED BY DEE DANIELS MEDIA   Follow for updates: INSTAGRAM FACEBOOK   FIND A FAVORITE SPOT IN THIS EPISODE: 00:00 Show Intro 01:19 Early Voting Guide 02:32 Key Races Overview 05:01 Local Policy Agenda 05:51 Development Fees Taxes 07:12 Regulations Public Safety 08:37 Workforce Education Priorities 10:27 Transit And SPLOST 13:17 Advocacy Wrap Up 15:10 Smart Plan Spotlight 19:28 Smart Plan Eligibility 24:18 Getting A Quote 26:49 Rise Job Board 31:00 Business Awards Nominations 38:55 Sponsor And Closing