There are many timely issues that directly impact the home building industry, such as storm water management regulations, nutrient offsets, forest conservation requirements, process efficiencies, permit fee schedules, smart growth, building moratoriums, adequate public facilities, building codes, and so on. These issues aren't just impacting builders and developers, they affect those working in related fields, from realtors to concrete pourers, and from window installers to plumbing supply companies. Ultimately, these issues affect our entire regional economy.
Our association is very active voicing our concerns about housing and growth management issues. However, the association is only as strong as its members: the more members who participate, the more likely it is that our voices will be heard.
These issues create new opportunities for MBIA members to become involved in creating positive change. One of the most important ingredients of a successful association is an active membership that is willing to have its voice heard by the public and by our elected officials. The accomplishments that can be realized through strong, grassroots efforts of our members are limitless.
Make a positive difference in our industry:
Looking for ways to get involved? MBIA suggests these ways to make sure your voice is heard.
Given the importance of county and local issues to our members and the fact that every vote truly does make a difference, elections represent a golden opportunity for the homebuilding industry to elect housing-friendly candidates in Maryland. Throughout the year, we evaluate elected officials at the city, county and state levels to determine how they line up with our industry.
Each election cycle our political action committee interviews candidates and determines their degree of support for our industry. Your vote in support of MBIA-endorsed candidates will go a long way toward affecting the outcome of these critical races.
A letter to the editor is an important tool we can use to help educate the public on our issues. Additionally, insofar as elected officials read letters to the editor, they can help influence policy decisions on issues important to the home building industry.
Hearings are an opportunity to assert our positions for the public record when policy changes are being considered. The willingness of members to attend these public hearings from time to time and provide testimony on housing and land use issues is important to influencing the outcomes of policy debates.
In addition to voting in local elections, association members can make a big difference in the outcome of important races by directly participating in individual campaigns. This could include making a financial contribution, putting up yard signs, asking your associates to vote for pro-housing candidates, or hosting fund-raisers for housing-friendly candidates running in your district.
Throughout the year, members of our government affairs staff hold regular meetings with city and county council members to discuss issues important to the Association. Having members attend these meetings is an extremely effective way to get our message across. That is because you are their constituents, and you have the unique ability to tell these officials exactly how a given policy affects you and others in the industry.
