Staff Report

COLUMBIA -- Cities and towns across South Carolina are celebrating the strong relationship between hometown leaders and the business community during “Cities Mean Business” month in February.

This campaign encourages new and stronger collaboration between local elected leaders and the business community to emphasize that strong cities are the hubs of a vibrant regional economy and the engines that help drive the state’s competitiveness.

“Cities Mean Business month is a great opportunity for local leaders to show the partnerships they enjoy with their local business leaders,” said Howard Duvall, executive director of the Municipal Association. “Cities and towns are the economic engines that provide quality of life, superior services and other amenities that attract business and industry to the state. Hometowns mean increased productivity, innovation, business and competitiveness.”

Small towns and big cities around the state are participating in “Cities Mean Business” month through different activities and recognition of the importance of business and industry to their hometowns.

From ads in local papers to editorials, proclamations and business receptions, local officials and business leaders are coming together to bring awareness to regional cooperation and economic competitiveness.

The Municipal Association will celebrate all of these contributions at the Hometown, SC Legislative Action Day on February 20, when local elected leaders come to Columbia to have their voices heard at the State House.

For more information about how strong cities and towns make positive contributions to the state’s economic prosperity, visit the “Cities Mean Business” Web site at www.citiesmeanbusiness.org.