St. Joseph business and community leaders have plans to travel to Washington, D.C. for the 18th straight year to lobby on behalf of area residents.

The St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce said thirty-four delegates from local business, government and community groups will make the trip this year on April 12 and 13.

Each year, the chamber said it’s Government Relations Committee and the Community Alliance of Saint Joseph meet to discuss legislative priorities on the local, state and federal levels. The federal issues are brought to the attention of federal legislators and their staff members on this trip.

“This annual event allows us to communicate our opportunities for growth and challenges with our legislative leaders in Washington,” said Steve Johnston, Director of the Community Alliance of Saint Joseph. “Our Washington officials serve and often chair important House and Senate committees. By better understanding our goals, they can provide valuable leadership for assistance. Equally important, we have the opportunity to meet with their legislative staff assistants in vital areas such as levees, transportation and infrastructure, military funding and education. Establishing positive working relationships is critical.”

In 2016, support of the 139th Airlift Wing again is one of the group’s top priorities. The chamber said meetings in the Pentagon will help the group solidify growth. Community engagement has a major impact on military bases around the country. The 139th Airlift Wing is the fourth largest employer in St. Joseph.

“The Fly-In gives us a chance each year to talk with St. Joseph’s federal delegation about our legislative priorities,” said R. Patt Lilly, President & CEO of the St. Joseph Chamber of Commerce. “Working together has allowed us to get results in Washington, D.C., over the years, which has resulted in funding and support of a number of projects and initiatives benefiting residents.”