As part of its comprehensive commitment to economic development, the JAX Chamber and its economic development division, JAXUSA Partnership, helped strengthen the region with announcements of approximately 3,000 new jobs, the retention of more than 1,000 existing jobs and more than $200 million in capital investment.

This month the City of Jacksonville passed legislation that will shorten the project review and approval process and make Jacksonville more competitive with other cities when closing high-value economic development projects. The JAX Chamber Board of Directors voted to support this legislation, which will help attract and grow businesses in Jacksonville, creating new investment and jobs in the community.

Some of JAXUSA’s project announcements include BI-LO and Winn-Dixie, Web.com, Healogics, GE Capital, Medtronic, Advanced Disposal Services Inc. and FlightStar.

Chamber President Wally Lee announced his retirement. Jerry Mallot, president of JAXUSA Partnership, will serve as interim president and CEO of the Chamber, effective Jan. 1, 2013.

Chamber leadership focused on six priority areas to drive quality economic development to the region in 2012:

Downtown Development – Developing Downtown Jacksonville is essential for the region’s success.

The Port of Jacksonville – The port of Jacksonville is an economic driver for job creation and high-wage jobs in the region, and the JAX Chamber is diligently advocating for funding improvements that will lead to significant job creation.

Education and Workforce Development – Education is the key to success, providing the knowledge and skills necessary to compete and prosper in a challenging marketplace. High-wage job growth relies on an educated workforce.

Sports and Entertainment — Sporting and entertainment events add to the region’s quality of life and boost economic development.

Community Pride – The Innovate Northeast Florida survey indicated the need to improve local residents’ perception of the region. The Chamber launched #ilovejax in response to a tweet that the region had lost it “swagger.”

Buy Chamber – The Chamber developed its Buy Chamber program, which helps member businesses grow by marketing and promoting their businesses to other members and, thereby, keep additional dollars in the region.

“The Chamber is helping lead the way to a more prosperous future by implementing dynamic programs to grow local business and attract major companies to our region,” Mallot said. “We could not have accomplished all that we did in 2012 without the active involvement of our members and business partners. Together, we are helping drive economic growth to the Northeast Florida region.”