As the legislative session kicks off, there has never been a more important time to make your voice heard. Decisions made in Tallahassee in the coming months will directly impact how our local businesses operate, grow and plan for the future. At the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance, we understand how critical it is to ensure that business remains strong while our community continues to be one of the best places to live, work and play.

Our region’s success has always been rooted in thoughtful planning, smart investment and collaboration between the public and private sectors. However, that success cannot be taken for granted. Issues such as property tax reform, access to affordable and reliable childcare and continued infrastructure investment are not abstract policy discussions, they are real challenges that affect employers, employees and families across our community every day.

The Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance remains committed to advocating on behalf of more than 750 businesses that call Lakewood Ranch, and the surrounding region, home. By engaging with lawmakers, monitoring proposed legislation and partnering with regional stakeholders, we work to ensure that the voices of our businesses are heard across the legislative process.

Now more than ever, it is essential for our business community to stay informed, engaged and connected. When businesses speak with a unified voice, we can help shape policies that support economic vitality, workforce stability and a high quality of life for everyone who lives and works in our region.

Brittany Lamont  is the President and CEO of the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance.