Chamber Music: Murray Striking Right Early Notes

Murray

Write a Comment

After Tim Murray stunned the Massachusetts political establishment by giving up the lieutenant governorship to lead the Worcester Regional Chamber of Commerce, observers expected more than just a change in title and a shorter commute for the former mayor. So, on his first day at his new downtown office, he pledged an aggressive and proactive approach to economic development in the city and surrounding communities.

As Murray enters his fourth month on the job this week, he hasn't disappointed, and for his early efforts, the board and membership at the chamber should be pleased.

Murray's first major initiative, the launch of a $1.2-million business development fund, was a strong initial step to boost business growth in a region that's in economic transition, but with business leaders that get the message that a rising tide lifts all boats. So, there's little surprise that, as of last week, the fund is closing in on the $1-million mark, according to a chamber official, helped in large part by a $100,000 matching grant from Hanover Insurance Group. That's a lot of money raised in a very short time.

More recently, the chamber's support of a state tax incentive program for developers who renovate old buildings into housing acts as a nudge to the city to help improve its housing stock as another tool to boost business. Since the Worcester City Council has moved economic development up the ladder of priorities, especially by narrowing the property tax rate gap between the city's residential and business tax bases, such a move would be consistent with that strategy. Timothy McGourthy, the city's chief development officer, told the Worcester Business Journal that the city is pushing toward participation in the state program by gauging interest among property owners.

Public advocacy for business and economic development is a core function for any chamber of commerce. Since what happens in Worcester has implications well beyond the city, Murray's work early in his tenure provides a strong sign to business interests throughout Central Massachusetts that the effort is well underway.

Murray To Host Worcester Chamber TV Show

Worcester Chamber Hires Firm For Biz Recruitment

Chamber Urges Worcester Action On Housing

Murray To Pay $80K In Campaign Finance Settlement

Tech Tax Summit Planned