30th Annual Chippewa Valley Rally

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30th Annual Chippewa Valley Rally

Wednesday, February 28, 2024

Description

Taking the Chippewa Valley's Voice to Madison

This annual event is organized by the Chippewa Valley Chamber Alliance, representing the Chippewa Falls, Menomonie and Eau Claire Chambers of Commerce. It's a unique opportunity to bring a collective voice on regional and state economic priorities to Madison all at one time.

“Thank you” is the major theme of the 30th Annual Chippewa Valley Rally, with many of our region’s most important economic priorities enacted in the 2023-25 State Budget or through other state legislation and action. This includes critical capital projects at area UW institutions, the compromise on shared revenue for local governments, repeal of the personal property tax, legislation to address housing supply and affordability, and the first step in expansion of passenger rail service to include the Chippewa Valley. Some issues remain to be resolved, including childcare, tax reform, and the EV charging network.

We also know that the imminent closure of HSHS and Prevea facilities in the Chippewa Valley has emerged as a critical challenge for our community. We are in the process of assessing the community impact and needed response. If there are specific actions needed on the part of the state government to address the crisis, there may be additional related issues to be discussed at the Rally. We'll keep you informed.

Click here to see the 2024 Chippewa Valley Rally Issues
Click here for a recap of 2023 issues and their current status

How it works: You'll be part of a team of several dozen area business and community leaders traveling to Madison for small group meetings at legislative offices, a luncheon, informal discussions with lawmakers and staff, and networking with others from the area who are interested in state government policy. And don't worry if you've never participated before. Our legislative office meetings will be led by experienced previous participants.

Schedule: You'll spend a full day in Madison from late morning through early evening, scheduled to allow you to leave in the morning and be home by late evening. Events will take place at the State Capitol and the Best Western Premier Park Hotel. Registration fees include a keynote luncheon and a closing reception. There will be online pre-event briefings to acquaint you with the 2023 Rally Issues and the political climate in Madison.

After you register, you'll receive more information and be kept informed of plans as they are finalized. Cancellation policy: If you find later you can't attend, cancel by Thursday, February 15, to receive a full refund (or you may send a substitute). If you have questions, contact Scott Rogers, Vice President Governmental Affairs, at the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce: rogers@eauclairechamber.org

Pre event briefings: Attendees will be invited to participate in two pre-event preparatory briefings:
• Wednesday, Feb 21: 11 a.m.-Noon: Political experts panel with with seasoned political experts Bill McCoshen of Michael Best Strategies, and
• Friday, Feb 23, 11 a.m.-Noon: Full issues briefing and Q&A
These will also be recorded for those who cannot attend or want to review the information later.

Transportation: You may travel on your own, or take advantage of optional same-day charter coach transportation which will be available from Eau Claire for $25. You'll be able to add bus transportation as you complete your registration. ** Bus transportation option is not available as we have reached our capacity**

Overnight accommodations: If you wish to combine your trip with other business, we've arranged for discounted rates at the Best Western Premier Park Hotel for $139/night plus taxes for the evening before or after. You can reserve online at this link, or call the hotel at 608-285-8000 and ask for the Chippewa Valley Rally special rate. Cutoff date for the special rate is February 15.