Lt. Gov. Bill Bolling was the featured speaker at the Gloucester County Chamber of Commerce annual dinner Saturday night at the Abingdon Ruritan Club, Bena. Shown during the cocktail hour are, from left, Charles Records, chamber executive director Makalia Records, Bolling’s wife Jean Ann, Bolling, Cassie Wiese, and chamber president Dayton Wiese. Photo by Bill Nachman

Speaking at the chamber’s annual "Taste of Virginia" dinner at the Abingdon Ruritan Club in Bena, Bolling said that creating economic opportunities can lead to a "greater quality of life" for all Virginians.

"Profit is not a bad word," Bolling said, nor is the push for new and expanded businesses that can upgrade communities throughout the commonwealth.

Virginia is in competition with many other states to attract these businesses, Bolling said, and has consistently ranked among the top in terms of creating the optimal economic climate. In many instances, he said, Virginia can offer a lower tax structure and better access to customers than other states can.

As lieutenant governor, Bolling has served as Gov. Bob McDonnell’s Chief Jobs Creation Officer and has overseen Virginia’s economic development efforts. Bolling said he has worked to create a more pro-business environment in the state.

In the past two years, Virginia has made more than $100 million in pro-business investments, including tax cuts and incentives, he said. As a result, Bolling said, Virginia has created more than 140,000 net new jobs.

Previously, Bolling served on the Hanover County Board of Supervisors and as a member of the Virginia State Senate.

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