The Carolina Foothills Chamber of Commerce supports our healthy, stable and growing economy and the preservation of the valuable assets and beautiful natural resources that we have spent decades preserving.  The beauty of our area defines us.  Examples such as the Billboards Ordinance to keep the I-26 pristine mountain views; establishment of our Hwy 176 U.S Scenic By-Way designation; growth and development of vineyards and farms, equestrian trails and properties, residences, golf courses and hiking trails; all contribute to our biggest industry – tourism. Our visitors bring in over $20 million annually and are vital to the survival of our successful economic climate. The Chamber Board of Directors unanimously agrees that this must be a priority and retained for our future.

We do not believe that the proposal of an overhead power line that dissects our mountains, valleys and other private properties is in the best interest of continuing a healthy economic climate such as we enjoy today. This type of energy growth is absolutely not fitting for our area, and we encourage Duke Energy to hear us, and focus more on underground or alternative routes or energy sources. The current plans would slash the splendor and ambiance of our natural beauty to be forever undone.

Adopted, this 10th day of August, 2015

Carolina Foothills Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors

Mike Karaman, President, Karaman Properties, Inc., Tryon

Kathy Toomey, Vice President, New View Realty, Tryon

Michael Southern, Treasurer, Soulisa’s Dining & Music House, Landrum

Ronnie Reid, Secretary, First Citizens Bank, Columbus

Kim Adams, Costco, Spartanburg

Jim Becker, Becker Electric, My Gym & Fitness, Columbus

Tim Bell, Green River Adventures, The Gorge Zip Line, Saluda

Marc Blazar, The Orchard Inn, Newman’s Restaurant, Saluda

Stephen Brady, Main Street Insurance Group, Tryon, NC

Sue Campbell, The Girls Interior Painting, Columbus

Meshelle Colvin, St. Luke’s Hospital Foundation, Columbus

Linda Howard, Carolina Antiques & More, Southern Delights Restaurant, Landrum

Libbie Johnson, Tryon Horse Country Equestrian Development, Tryon

Dulcie Juenger, Walker-Wallace & Emerson Realty, Landrum

Cato Junge, Tile Specialties, Columbus

Kim Karaman, Old Tryon County Realty Team, Tryon

Ethan Waldman, Home Trust Bank, Tryon

 

– Submitted by Janet W. Sciacca, Executive Director