STONE HARBOR - Cape May County Chamber of Commerce President Barbara Stafford Jones joined others in the February 5 joint Public Hearing at The Reeds on the proposed establishment of The Cooper Health System, a New Jersey nonprofit corporation, as the sole member of Cape Regional Health System, Inc.
In a significant show of support for the merger between Cape Regional Health System and Cooper University Health Care, the Cape May County Chamber of Commerce, as the foremost advocate for business in the region, stands firmly behind this transformative initiative. The Chamber, dedicated to fostering a thriving environment in the Jersey Cape, has consistently championed the interests of its members and actively contributes to the success of the local business community.
With a mission centered on enhancing members' prosperity, the Chamber plays a pivotal role in the $7.4 billion tourism economy of Cape May County. Addressing pertinent issues and steering marketing efforts to connect with the customer base, the Chamber serves as the central voice and hub for businesses in the region, ardently advocating for their concerns on both business and legislative fronts.
In expressing endorsement for the merger between Cape Regional and Cooper, the Chamber underscores the numerous positive advantages it foresees for the community. Since the merger's initial announcement, the business community's feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, reflecting the widespread anticipation of the benefits this union will bring.
Cape Regional, a stalwart member of the Chamber for over 65 years, has been instrumental in providing high-quality healthcare to residents and visitors alike. Recognizing the pivotal role of a robust healthcare system in fostering economic growth, the Chamber eagerly anticipates even greater prosperity with the infusion of resources from Cooper resulting from the merger.
Believing in the merger's potential for a positive economic impact, the Chamber envisions the creation of additional year-round jobs, including much-needed positions for physicians and healthcare professionals. The collaboration is expected to broaden healthcare services within the community, eliminating the necessity for residents and visitors to seek certain healthcare services outside the county.
Cape Regional's steadfast support for the Chamber, demonstrated through longstanding membership, in-kind contributions, and active participation in initiatives such as health screenings, fairs, educational programs, and leadership training, is poised to expand with the merger. The Chamber eagerly anticipates leveraging the increased resources stemming from the union to further benefit the local business community.
In conclusion, the Cape May County Chamber of Commerce expresses its enthusiasm and unwavering support for the merger between Cape Regional Health System and Cooper University Health Care, foreseeing a promising future for the community at large.
