The BIA of Lancaster County recently had the privilege of meeting with PA State Senate Candidate Scott Martin and several of our local PA State Representatives-Majority Whip Bryan Cutler, and Representatives Steve Mentzer, Brett Miller, David Zimmerman, and Keith Greiner. As a result of our active support through the BIA Government Affairs Committee, we distributed $3,250 from the Pennsylvania Builders Association's PAC, the Pennsylvania Coalition for Affordable Housing, to those legislators in contested state races that best support our industry.The group discussed various issues regarding the Federal and State elections, our current frustrations with permitting delays and building codes, and the future of the industry in this and other regions. They expressed an interesting sentiment-it is apparent to them that Lancaster's BIA has a strong member base eager to communicate ideas, needs and frustrations as well as offer support financially and otherwise. This relationship exists in some regions but certainly not all. It was gratifying to hear their praise for Lancaster members and the confirmation that our efforts have an impact.This election season certainly has no shortage of hot button issues and strongly-held opinions on both sides of the fence. And while housing may not have the limelight like it did five years ago, it's not only crucial to our members' livelihoods, but also the economic health of the whole community. Thanks to the persistent efforts of our Government Affairs Committee, we are grateful to be represented by a group of elected officials who largely understand our industry's importance and its needs, and want to work honestly with businesses to achieve our mission of ensuring a fair market environment that meets the housing and building needs of our communities. Because of the generous donations made by members to our BIA-PAC, we can continue to see to it that the right people remain in office - those whose ears are open to our suggestions and whose hands help to make things happen to keep homes affordable for our residents, now and in the years to come. Thank you to all who have contributed in this way in 2016!If you would like to help the BIA in building these solid relationships with elected officials, we encourage you to make a donation to our Political Action Committee here.
