Burlington County Commissioner Director Felicia Hopson delivered the keynote address at the Burlington County Regional Chamber of Commerce’s annual State of the County Dinner earlier this month, emphasizing that the county continues to prioritize affordability and helping local businesses grow and succeed.
The event featured the State of the County address, as well as updates from state Sen. Troy Singleton and Burlington City Mayor Barry Conaway. Burlington County Regional Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Kristi Howell moderated a forum with Robin Winzinger, owner of Robin’s Nest Café & Bakery in Mount Holly, and Jack O’Connell, co-founder of Dr. Brewlittle’s Beer Co. in Maple Shade.
During her address, Hopson highlighted some of this year’s strong economic numbers, including Burlington County’s low unemployment rate and more than 225 new business registrations. She also spoke of the county’s commitment to assisting businesses with free workshops, resource and employment fairs, and promotions.
“Burlington County’s businesses are the backbone of our local downtowns and communities,” Hopson said. “You create the jobs and deliver the goods and services residents want and need. You’re also the first to give back and support local organizations and those in need. Our goal is to support you and help you continue to succeed. When you do well – our communities grow stronger, and we all benefit.”
Among this year’s biggest successes was the expansion of Burlington County Restaurant Week into two events in winter and summer. More than 50 restaurants participated in the first-ever Winter Restaurant Week and more than 125 participated in the Summer Restaurant Week, including at least one from each of Burlington County’s 40 municipalities.
Affordability continues to be a top priority for the commissioners, and Hopson pointed to the county’s strong credit rating and record of having the lowest cost per resident and average county tax in New Jerey in 2019, 2020, 2021 and 2022. She said the county also expects to remain the lowest when the 2023 data is released.
“We’re proud of our record as one of the most affordable counties in the region,” Hopson said. “That’s a huge selling point for businesses starting or expanding here.”
Burlington County Commissioners Dan O’Connell and Allison Eckel also attended the dinner and helped reinforce the county’s commitment to helping local businesses and families.
