Innovation & Infrastructure: A Roundtable with County Supervisor Curt Hagman
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Innovating for the Future: A Roundtable with County Supervisor Curt Hagman
In June, the Chino Valley Chamber hosted an Innovation Roundtable featuring County Supervisor Curt Hagman. Held at the Chino Hills Community Center, this event brought together over 40 community members and leaders to discuss the future of innovation in San Bernardino County. Moderated by the Chamber’s CEO/President Zeb Welborn, the conversation highlighted past successes and future plans for fostering innovation and growth within the county.
Empowering Innovation and Infrastructure
Supervisor Hagman emphasized the importance of empowering employees and creating an environment where new ideas can flourish. “We want to empower employees to say ‘we will back you if you see something can be done more efficiently’,” he stated. This approach aims to create a culture of continuous improvement and proactive problem-solving within the county.
Addressing the county’s infrastructure needs was another critical point of discussion. “Those infrastructure improvements are the ones we need to address,” Hagman said, acknowledging the necessity of a robust foundation to support innovation. The county is actively working to attract private sector investment to enhance infrastructure and support economic growth.
Harnessing Technology for Better Services
A tech enthusiast, Hagman shared his passion for leveraging technology to improve public services. “I love technology, so we started a number of committees,” he noted. Innovations such as sensors for police and fire services demonstrate this commitment, with sensors allowing for quicker response times and potentially saving lives and property.
Utilizing data collected through these technologies is also a priority. “If we use the data that we’re collecting through our sensors, is there a way we can educate policymakers in policy decisions?” Hagman asked, highlighting the role of data-driven decision-making in shaping effective policies.
Supporting Small Businesses and Community Development
Hagman, drawing from his experience as a small business owner, underscored the importance of adapting to change. “Coming from small business myself, you’re always ever-changing and in government we are now changing,” he shared. The county aims to support local businesses by improving marketing efforts and providing resources through various departments.
To further support economic development, the county is focusing on hosting international events, including the 2028 Olympics, and developing recreational activities on vacant lands. These initiatives are designed to attract international business and tourism, benefiting the local economy.
The Role of the Chino Valley Chamber
The Chino Valley Chamber plays a pivotal role in supporting local businesses and fostering innovation. The Chamber helps businesses navigate opportunities within the county. “If you’re not on the bid engines for your sectors then you’re doing yourself a disservice,” Hagman advised, encouraging businesses to engage with county services to stay informed about available opportunities.
Spotlight on the Chino Valley Chamber’s Innovative Work
The Chino Valley Chamber is not only facilitating discussions on innovation but also actively implementing innovative practices. They offer extensive support to local businesses through educational programs, networking opportunities, and resources to help them thrive. The Chamber is dedicated to creating a business-friendly environment where innovation can prosper, ensuring the Chino Valley remains a vibrant and competitive area for businesses. “Your chamber is the mighty chamber that can and does”, Hagman shared, highlighting how in the past 2 years the Chino Valley Chamber has received over $1 million dollars in grants to improve workforce and economic development.
Conclusion
Supervisor Curt Hagman’s commitment to innovation and infrastructure development, coupled with the Chino Valley Chamber’s support for local businesses, sets a strong foundation for future growth in San Bernardino County. As Hagman aptly put it, “This is an exciting time!” The collaborative efforts of the county government and the Chamber will undoubtedly continue to drive progress and innovation in the region.
For more information or to get involved, reach out to Supervisor Curt Hagman’s office or the Chino Valley Chamber. Together, we can build a thriving, innovative community.