Chester County Commissioners dug into the past year to reveal some of the most impressive developments, most instrumental strategies and most promising opportunities as part of the Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry’s annual State of the County Luncheon.

More than 200 top business leaders joined the panel of Commissioners — Terence Farrell, Kathi Cozzone and Michelle Kichline — and moderator Matt O’Donnell of 6ABC’s Action News for the April 19 CCCBI event at Penn Oaks Golf Club.

Among the State of the County highlights were the best-in-the-nation ranking of Tredyffrin-Eastown School District; the booming business relations with China; the imminent completion of Route 202 and other Chester County park, trail and highway improvements; the continued focus on the successful VISTA 2025 economic development plan; and East Goshen’s remarkable transformation from a largely rural farming community into the dynamic suburban community of today, for which Township Manager Rick Smith was awarded the J. Larry Boling Award for Excellence in Local Government by former state Senator, county commissioner, and state republican committee Chairman Earl Baker.

“Rick Smith has, for a generation, been the go-to guy for East Goshen Township. He has led the township, working with his supervisors, through a challenging period of growth and development while also providing for the recreation needs of his citizens,” Baker said. “He always deals with every problem in a direct, effective way. He has also been able to keep taxes down while providing exceptional services.”

The insightful CCCBI event was made possible by sponsors Aqua America; Riley, Riper, Hollin & Colagreco; Exelon Generation; and Gawthrop Greenwood.

“As the premier voice of business in Chester County, events like this solidify our relationship with elected officials and business leaders,” CCCBI President and CEO Guy Ciarrocchi said.

Check out previous VISTA Today coverage of CCCBI events and initiatives here.