We kicked off a busy Aprilwith a great turnout of excited builders and associates attending Home Builders Day at the Capitol - many for the first time. This day, in my opinion, can single-handedly validate the value of OSHBA membership. First came a briefing by our EO, Mike Means, where we received assignments, good talking points, and a surprise visitor - US Congressman James Lankford!
After our visit with Congressman Lankford, we attended the opening of the day's session in the House of Representatives. We were welcomed by the House after being introduced by Rep. Jason Nelson. We then walked the halls before returning to hear from Speaker of the House TW Shannon. It was quite the privilege to spend 30 minutes in Q&A with the Speaker!
The group then left the Capitol to convene the Board of Directors meeting at COHBA. (Thanks COHBA for opening up your facility for us once again!)
A few items of interest that you will be sure to hear more about in the next few months that came from the board meeting. 1) Our insurance consultants have agreed to waive their audit fee on workers compensation audits. That will save the association about $6000 per year. Thanks CFR-HUB! 2) Pending the final agreement, the board authorized the endorsement of Professional Warranty Corporation (PWC) for an extended warranty program for builders. And 3) we saw a demonstration of the new online state contract program that will be available to builder members.
As your president, I have had opportunity to speak recently regarding the direction of our industry and the threats that are still before us. I have asserted that capital restrictions and low appraisals comprise the two biggest obstacles builders face. I will continue to advocate for our industry and represent our great association to the best of my ability.
Hopefully you are making plans to join us at the Gaylord Texan for this year's summer convention. (I heard it from good sources that some are staying at the Great Wolf Lodge right across the street....for the kids, right?) Rooms are filling up fast, so make reservations now and join us.
By the way, have you recruited a new member this month?
Serving you with my best effort,
Jeff Click, 2013 State President
