CARW Members and Commercial Real Estate Colleagues,
From obtaining use & occupancy permits, to creating the macro conditions needed to spur dynamic economic growth, commercial real estate professionals depend on fostering deep relationships with Local, State, and National representatives. While our system of governance is not perfect, the United States still remains the shining City on the Hill because of a core fundamental that has guided us since our founding; a government of the people, by the people and for the people.
Tracy Johnson, Paul Galbraith, Tom Shepherd and I just returned from Washington D.C. while representing CARW at the National Association of REALTORS Government week. We were able to spend an entire day on Capitol Hill in which we were able to meet with our Wisconsin delegation and discuss Commercial Real Estate markets and what we all can do to grow the economy. We had time to cover several of our key national priorities including preserving 1031 exchanges, Tax Reform and re-authorization of the EB-5 visa program.
This was my first trip to Washington, D.C. and it was a very rewarding experience. In visiting with Paul Ryan, Mark Pocan, Reid Ribble, Glenn Grothman, Gwen Moore and Sean Duffy on the State Representative side and Ron Johnson and Tammy Baldwin on the State Senate side, it was evident that all of our representatives were truly interested in learning how they could help. Democrats and Republicans may fundamentally disagree on many things, however it was clear that all of our representatives share a common goal of improving the lives of their constituents.
While 2016 appears to be lining up as a cynical and bruising political cycle, don’t allow yourself to sit on the sideline. Take the time to learn about the issues that impact your business and learn about the candidates that want to represent you both locally and in Washington, D.C. As a visible professional in your respective community, take the time to lead a civil discourse on the issues. Most importantly, take the time to thank the people that want to serve you, even if you don’t agree with their point of view.
Regards,
Jeff Hoffman, CCIM, SIOR
2016 CARW Chairman
[email protected]
See more pictures HERE.