FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
To: News Media, Bamberg County Citizens
From: Bamberg County Administration
Date: December 16, 2025
Re: Bamberg County Council Unanimously Supports Resolution Encouraging Regional Chamber Alliance
Bamberg, South Carolina (December 2025) — In a strong show of unity and forward momentum, the Bamberg County Council voted unanimously on Monday night to support a proposed resolution encouraging collaboration between the Bamberg County Chamber of Commerce and the Southern Palmetto Chamber of Commerce through the formation of a regional alliance. The action underscores the County’s commitment to partnership-driven economic development—particularly among rural communities that thrive when they work together.
The motion was made by Bamberg County Councilman Evert Comer, Jr., who emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in building sustainable economic growth and expanding opportunities for local entrepreneurs and small businesses. The resolution was passed unanimously by the Council.
“Bamberg County is on the move!” said Councilman Evert Comer, Jr. “By encouraging collaboration between our chambers, we are opening doors to greater regional reach, stronger programming, and more opportunities for our residents and business community.”
The discussion highlighted the success of the Propel Business Lab, one of the Southern Palmetto Chamber’s core programs. This year’s Propel Business Lab culminated in a $10,000 pitch competition held on the Voorhees University campus, where Bamberg County resident Blanche Meeks, owner of Meeks Grand Treats, was named the winner. The 12-week program was facilitated by City of Barnwell Councilwoman Alicia Davis and Bamberg County Public Information Officer and Keep Bamberg County Beautiful Executive Director Alisha Moore.
Bob Snead, President and CEO of the Southern Palmetto Chamber of Commerce, thanked Bamberg County Council for its support and sponsorship of the Propel Business Lab and other initiatives. “We are grateful to Bamberg County Council for believing in this program and in regional collaboration,” Snead said. “Every dollar raised goes right back into Bamberg County, supporting entrepreneurs, workforce development, and community growth. Applications for next year’s Propel Business Lab will open mid-year 2026, and we’re excited about what’s ahead.”
Snead also shared that the Southern Palmetto Chamber is working to add at least one board seat to represent Bamberg County, ensuring local voices are included at the regional leadership table.
Enterick Lee, City of Blackville Councilman and Vice President of Operations for the Southern Palmetto Chamber, outlined the organization’s ambitious plans for the coming year, which include 28 events and three core programs. “When you’re a small chamber, you have to stay busy,” Lee said. “We have 28 events planned, including an annual membership banquet, Blessing of the Crops, State of the Region event with local mayors, a mayors’ roundtable, public service BBQ, Homegrown Leadership Summit, Christmas social, Women in Leadership Luncheon, and more—along with our three core programs: Propel Business Lab, Coding Connect Program, and the Homegrown Leadership Institute. We’re looking forward to working closely with Bamberg County in the year ahead.”
Lee emphasized that the proposed alliance would not diminish the Bamberg County Chamber of Commerce but instead enhance its impact. “Nothing will be taken away from the Bamberg Chamber—only added to it, expanding its reach throughout the region,” he said.
Bamberg County Council Chairwoman Sharon Hammond expressed appreciation for the Southern Palmetto Chamber’s ongoing support of the county and enthusiasm for continued collaboration. “I want to thank the Southern Palmetto Chamber of Commerce for all that they do to support Bamberg County,” Hammond said. “We look forward to strengthening our partnership and working together even more in the new year.”
The resolution reflects a shared vision among county and regional leaders: that strategic partnerships—especially in rural areas—are essential to driving economic development, supporting entrepreneurs, and creating a stronger, more connected region.
With unanimous Council support, Bamberg County is poised to take the next step toward expanded regional collaboration, reinforcing the message that progress is best achieved together.
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For more information about this news release, email info@bambergcounty.sc.gov.