Commercial Broker Quarterly: Fall 2003 - GWCAR, Greater Washington Commercial Association of REALTORS(R)

CBQ >> Fall 2003 Issue

Remarks from the President

At our most recent meeting of the GWCAR Board of Directors, I encouraged all of our Board members to go beyond the minimum support for RPAC -- the REALTORS^® Political Action Committee. RPAC contributions are given to candidates who support commercial development and related commercial real estate issues. RPAC strengthens the REALTORS^® political advocacy program through grassroots activities and federal, state and local lobbying efforts. There's only one way to protect your investment in commercial real estate -- and that's by investing in RPAC!

Just look at some of our legislative and regulatory achievements throughout the DC metro region. For instance, GWCAR staff has been active in Montgomery County advocating against the Planning Board's proposal to put a 1 percent growth cap on all development each year, which would place an artificial numerical restriction limit on the future growth and ignore the market realities. Further, it limits future growth in the county to a "bare minimum" that is required for economic vitality.

In the District of Columbia, we are fighting an effort to dramatically expand the reach of the tenant "first right" to purchase law that would have a devastating impact on investment in housing.

Finally, GWCAR staff is starting to coordinate its political advocacy efforts with the Northern Virginia and Virginia Associations of REALTORS^® to ensure protection for commercial real estate.

Our membership in GWCAR, and especially our support of RPAC, give us clout in overcoming regulatory barriers, advocating for transportation solutions and making legislators aware of the myriad of quality-of-life issues that affect development and occupancy in our region.

I hope you will watch for legislative updates from GWCAR staff, participate in the legislative process and support RPAC so that we can continue to effectively advocate on your behalf.

Remember, RPAC is just one of the many ways to protect your investment in commercial real estate, but I challenge you to be active supporters of your association. Join committees and task forces, attend events, sponsor functions and make your voice heard. When you become involved we all reap the benefits -- and an active membership is the best investment we can have.

On a final note, this is my last column as President of GWCAR and I want to thank all of the volunteers, and especially our incredible GWCAR staff, for their efforts in making this organization such a success. We have accomplished much this year, but there is much more to be accomplished in the future.

W. David Bevirt
2003 President