January 2024 Advocacy Updates
Below are things you should know or take action on right now as a local-independent business owner or community leader:
Local Level Updates
- We are reigniting our Commercial Space Advising work this year, thanks to a robust group of expert advisors, and hope you’ll help us spread the word to anyone you know who is exploring brick and mortar for their business - particularly if for the first time, but also if for a business move or expansion. Learn more here!
- Our vision to localize Union Pier continues, as we have a seat on the newly-created Union Pier Community Advisory Council. Updates to come! For now, you can read the latest on the planning process via the Post and Courier.
- Via Charleston Moves: The Town of Mount Pleasant has been awarded a Safe Streets and Roads for All grant from USDOT in the amount of $15.78M. This funding will be used to implement 17 priority projects identified within the Town's Safety Action Plan. Find their Plan document here. Community input sessions to be announced.
- Sign up to receive the City of Charleston's Department of Planning, Preservation and Sustainability monthly newsletter to stay informed of current and planned projects that affect our city's built landscape.
Federal Level Updates
As a result of the Corporate Transparency Act of 2021, beginning on January 1, 2024, all LLCs, corporations, business trusts, and any other entity registered with the Secretary of State must make a Beneficial Ownership Filing with the United States Government's Financial Crimes Enforcement Network. The report is free, but there are penalties for not completing it. Learn more.
State Level Updates
Did you know that Dominion Energy South Carolina offers financial incentives to help eligible small business customers reduce their energy usage and save money? This includes a free on-site energy analysis for your lighting and/or HVAC system. Check it out and see if you qualify for a 90% payout, up to $6,000, for approved energy-efficient upgrades. To learn more, including program participation requirements and restrictions, visit www.DominionEnergy.com/SmallBizSC.
Questions? Input? Let us know.