As 2014 comes to a close, I hope we can all agree we are experiencing a rejuvenated real estate market and an industry that finally has the wind to our back. Just as our industry has enjoyed new growth and resurgence, so has the Council – from increased membership to a record Four Pillar Tribute – just to list a couple of 2014 accomplishments.
We started 2014 with some aggressive goals that we met or exceeded. Our membership in the Council increased by 21%, programs revenue increased by 25%, the 501(c) (3) status for the Quality Growth Institute was approved by the IRS, and the 25th Annual Four Pillar Tribute, honoring Steve Selig, had a record attendance of 1375 and doubled last year’s revenue. We also began the process of revamping the Council’s website so our overall communication and information flow can better serve our members. Our Advisory Committees continued to see increased attendance as we met around the region, providing our members with access to local elected and appointed officials to discuss topical development issues.We continued to host regional forums to include State of DeKalb, Cherokee, Gwinnett and Forsyth County Addresses. We hosted our second annual Capitol Legislative Luncheon and our 10th annual Meet and Greet, which was attended by more than 150 local elected officials.
We are ending 2014 stronger than we began with a lot of momentum going into the New Year. I am confident the Council will grow even stronger under Tim Lowe’s leadership in 2015.
It has been an honor and a privilege to serve as chairman this year. I am grateful to the officers, executive committee, and the board of directors for all their time and energy. Specifically, I want to thank the amazing, hardworking, and dedicated staff at the Council, led by our president, Michael Paris. These individuals work tirelessly to promote and further the goals of the Council, and as I have said many times, they make the chairman’s job very easy.
Happy Holidays and best wishes to everyone for a prosperous and healthy 2015.
Brent Reid,
CEO
The Winter Construction Company