Valdosta, Georgia – A delegation of community leaders from Valdosta-Lowndes County recently traveled to the nation's capital to advocate for the interests of the region. The group engaged in a series of meetings and discussions with key policymakers to highlight the needs and priorities of the Valdosta-Lowndes community.

The trip, which took place from June 5th to June 8th, involved a packed itinerary aimed at maximizing the impact of the advocacy efforts of the Valdosta Chamber and community partners. The delegation had the opportunity to meet with several influential figures, including members of the House of Representatives and Senators from Georgia, as well as their respective staff members.

On Tuesday, June 6th, the delegation headed to the Rayburn House Office Building for crucial meetings with Congressmen Sanford Bishop, Austin Scott, and Buddy Carter. The three congressmen represent the width of South Georgia and have historically worked together to help support Moody Air Force Base and support agriculture. Local leaders had the opportunity to highlight the priorities for our community such as enacting legislation that would change the age requirement for individuals to drive a commercial vehicle (semi-trucks) across state lines from 21 to 18, ensuring continued support for Moody AFB, extending PELL grants to fund short-term certificates in high demand careers (ex: Patient Care Assisting), ensuring hospitals are able to continue providing quality care without regard to a patients ability to pay, and more.

After sharing priorities with Congressman Bishop, the long-time member of the House commended the group for having a common agenda- “it shouldn’t be a secret but whether in Atlanta or Washington, coming as a unified community really makes a difference.”

Lowndes County Board of Commissioners Chairman, Bill Slaughter, shared that “the efforts taken and the messages that were delivered to our Senators & Congressman we're important to our community. They listened to our issues and offered suggestions to help resolve the issues. The most important takeaway was the opportunity to meet their Staff members and put faces to names as we discussed these issues. The community was well represented by the group that participated in this event.”

As a leading member of the House Armed Services Committee, Congressman Scott assured the group that he and his team are doing everything within their power to ensure the vibrancy of Moody AFB. “Thank you to community leaders from Valdosta and Lowndes County who came to Washington to advocate for the interests of local businesses, schools, hospitals, and Moody AFB. Moody AFB is essential to our national defense and is a major contributor to our local economy. I appreciate Lowndes County leaders for always working with my office to prioritize Moody in Washington." The evening provided an opportunity for camaraderie and bonding, as the group attended a Nationals Baseball Game while hosting staff members from the Georgia Delegation.

Ronald Dean, President & CEO of South Georgia Medical Center acknowledged that “Lowndes County and South Georgia’s continued economic growth and development requires a clear, concise and uniform message to our Congressmen, Senators and their staff in Washington, DC.” Dean further commented that the trip was “a great example of industry leaders and local elected officials speaking with one voice.”

On Wednesday, June 7th, the delegation embarked on a series of engagements at the Senate Office Buildings. The day started with a constituent coffee session with Senator Ossoff, followed by a meeting with Senator Ossoff's Legislative Director and additional staff. Later in the afternoon, the delegation met with Senator Warnock and his staff where they discussed additional community priorities including finding creative solutions to address the pilot shortage, expanding VSU’s Rural Teacher Pipeline initiative, and helping fund needed infrastructure improvements.

Wiregrass Georgia Technical College President DeAnnia Clements shares the importance of this yearly trip. “It is always beneficial when we can come together as a group and talk with our state leaders about the challenges and successes we have as a community. It’s important for us to stay focused and planning on the future for Valdosta and Lowndes.”

Valdosta Mayor, Scott James Matheson, echoed this sentiment. “I was inspired by the level of understanding our City, County and Regional leadership have with regard to the very special time we find ourselves in! This group fully realizes the opportunities we have before us and the vision and wisdom to speak with one voice. We are still basking in the glow of this very successful trip!”

Overall, the Valdosta Chamber's Community Fly-In to Washington, D.C. was a successful endeavor that allowed community leaders to advocate for the interests of Valdosta, Lowndes County, and South Georgia by helping establish meaningful connections with key policymakers. By presenting a unified front, the delegation effectively conveyed the community's priorities and contributed to the ongoing development and growth of Valdosta and Lowndes County.