Community and Government Relations Committee

Who We Are: The Community & Government Relations Committee is comprised of Chamber member representatives from local and state government, non-profit organizations, corporations, mid-size companies, small businesses, and entrepreneurs.​ Committee members work collaboratively to serve as a leading voice for business and economic issues that impact the membership-at-large and the business community in the City of Southaven and DeSoto County.

By virtue of its leadership, standing committees and program agenda, the Chamber actively supports initiatives aimed at promoting a healthy business climate, growth of our membership, and a strong, sustainable, diverse, and unbiased economy. 

What We Do: Through the efforts of our committee members, including representatives from DeSoto Economic Council, Congressman Trent Kelly’s DeSoto County office, Secretary of State’s Regional Representatives, local municipal elected officials and managers, issues affecting the region and the County are brought to the table for discussion and action.

Supplemental Support: Relevant topic discussions and supplemental information are summarized and published in the Chamber's monthly e-newsletter.  The newsletter supports the Committee's efforts to communicate relevant and timely topics and presenting related issues to the elected officials to ensure Members’ voices are heard.  

When We Meet: 2nd Wednesday of the month @ 9am @ Southaven Chamber Conference Room

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​Want to join or learn more? Contact the committee chairman or the Chamber.

Committee Chair: Matthew Kelso, Chair,
Matthew Kelso is a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones Financial Investments. Kelso is also a past chair of the Southaven Young Professionals program and currently serves on the Chamber Board of Directors as Nominating committee chair and the Community and Government Relations chair. Kelso has a passion for government and educating business owners and the youth of the importance of their voice in politics. He is leading the charge for our committee to make a difference and an impact in our state capital by increasing the involvement of our DeSoto County community. We are thankful for his passion and service to the Southaven Chamber of Commerce.