Back to Article List
Score for the AAGD PAC – May 16
By: Steve Thurber, 2007-2008 AAGD President
On May 16, you have an opportunity to enjoy a day on the links with your industry friends. It’s AAGD’s 24th Annual Spring Golf Classic. The tournament will be held at the Hyatt Bear Creek Golf Club in the D/FW Airport complex. Check-in begins at 10:00 A.M. – with tee-off at 1:00 P.M. The AAGD Golf Classic serves as a fundraiser for the AAGD PAC. The AAGD Political Action Committee and Legislative Committee are charged with the responsibility of monitoring the views of candidates who are up for election.
The Committee supports and endorses candidates who are sensitive and responsive to multihousing industry interests. At election time, the apartment industry has a lot at stake. Ours is a heavily regulated industry. We have fought some very critical battles over the last few years on the local, state and national levels. That activity has certainly not decreased.
For instance, did you know:
nThe City of Frisco is beginning work on an inspection program for multifamily properties. Rather than merely adopting another city’s program with certain burdensome requirements, we have been asked to be part of a task force that will determine the kind of program that works best for everyone involved.
nThe Regional Council of Governments (NCTCOG) had proposed additional amendments to the International Fire Code that would have prohibited apartment residents from storing their barbecue grills on their patios, regardless of whether it was being used. AAGD opposed the recommendation and petitioned the governing Board to delete the amendment. The Board voted in favor of AAGD and deleted the amendment prior to the code’s distribution to all the North Texas cities.
nThe City of Irving has been aggressively enforcing building codes on the older multifamily housing stock within the city, including instituting a ranking system, closing down certain properties, and requiring properties that lose their certificates of occupancy to complete a retrofit to current codes before re-opening. The most onerous requirement centered on the requirement to retrofit all apartments with fire sprinklers and alarm systems. Several AAGD members have been serving on the task force dealing with these issues, and have made some real progress in solving the issues, without costing our members significant resources.
nThe City of Denton continues to raise the issue of adopting the International Property Maintenance Code, which would include additional maintenance standards, annual inspections, and increased fees. Members there have been diligent in their opposition to the code, attending council meetings, writing letters, talking to Council members, networking, and staying involved in the issue. After two years, the city is still unable to get consensus about how the program would be administered, which has allowed a reprieve for our members.
AAGD PAC dollars raised are critical to the continued health and well-being of the apartment industry. The money we raise through our local PAC Events helps us keep a strong voice at all levels of government.
You participate, you win!
If you participate in AAGD’s golf fundraisers, you play a major role in the process. If you participate in AAGD’s PAC Auctions, you have made a significant contribution. All of these fundraising events provide great networking opportunities. As we participate, battles are won, multihousing industry interests are kept in the forefront in the legislative process – and our business interests are protected. It’s win-win. We have numerous members and the ability to touch thousands of voters who elect the people who make the decisions. We must not let that power go untapped. Participate – become involved. The long-term well-being of our industry depends on it. See you at Bear Creek on May 16. Even if you’re way over par, you’ll win on a much more important level with the impact of your participation.
Congratulations to Gerry Henigsman
Gerry Henigsman, Executive Vice President for AAGD for the past 16 years, was named Association Executive of the Year by the Texas Apartment Association at the April TAA Education Conference. He was recognized by the members of TAA for his outstanding efforts on numerous legislative initiatives this past year as well as growth in membership, educational programs and community service projects. Gerry's diverse skills and unique talent are evident in his ability to work toward the common good of the community and the Association members. Congratulations, Gerry!
AAGD Salute to the Stars – May 22
On May 22 – find your way to the Hotel Intercontinental – Garden Court (Dallas North Tollway & Belt Line Rd.). It’s AAGD’s Salute to the Stars – and it’s a star-studded luncheon and salute to YOU! The event is set for 12:00 Noon, with registration beginning at 11:30 A.M. It’s your time to shine as we recognize AAGD volunteers and announce the 2008 AAGD Officer of the Year. The event also features the Association’s Annual Business Meeting.
May is a busy month for AAGD members. Score for the AAGD PAC on May 16– then receive your accolades on May 22 at AAGD’s Salute to the Stars!
Back to Article List
