It’s been nearly a year since the Flint & Genesee Group first began working with Kelley Cawthorne, a Lansing-based lobbying firm, to advocate for the region’s business community. This collaboration has been an important step in ensuring that local businesses have a voice in shaping policies impacting the region’s economic health.
“At any given moment, there are legislative efforts and decisions underway that could affect the business climate of our region and state,” said Tim Herman, CEO of the Flint & Genesee Group. “Through our partnership with Kelley Cawthorne, we’re ensuring that Flint & Genesee and its business community are represented in those discussions.”
Kelley Cawthorne provides a range of services to the Group, including facilitating meetings with state and federal legislators. These efforts aim to inform and influence legislation to encourage economic growth in Genesee County.
According to Andrew Younger, executive director of the Flint & Genesee Chamber, Kelley Cawthorne has been instrumental in addressing challenges posed by new state laws like the Earned Sick Time Act and the Improved Workforce Opportunity Wage Act, both set to take effect in February.
“As written, these laws will make it even harder for employers to expand their workforce, which could stifle business growth and increase the burden on existing employees,” Younger said. “We’ve been meeting with representatives to make sure they understand the impact this will have on businesses and to advocate for adjustments that consider the needs of our small business community.”
The partnership extends beyond advocacy for the Chamber and into the other divisions of the Group as well. For example, the firm has helped advocate for the Advanced Manufacturing District of Genesee County, which was awarded nearly $260 million in site readiness grants in 2024 (Economic Alliance); support legislative changes benefiting Flint Promise and talent attraction initiatives (Education & Talent); and navigate updates to the state’s accommodations tax law (Explore Flint & Genesee).
In addition to legislative advocacy, Kelley Cawthorne helped the Chamber host a “Meet the Candidates” event in October, allowing members and other business leaders to meet with individuals running for office in the 2024 election. The firm also provided a post-election legislative update at the Group’s Regional Leadership Council summit, highlighting key insights relevant to business, talent, and place in Genesee County.
Looking ahead, the partnership remains strong. The teams stay in regular communication with weekly – and sometimes daily – calls to ensure Flint & Genesee’s business community stays informed, engaged, and represented.
“Through this collaboration, we’re not just reacting to policy changes – we’re proactively shaping them to benefit the businesses and communities we serve,” Herman said.