It Has to Begin with You

This edition of Michigan REALTOR® is primarily aimed at the public policy strategy of our association.  For many REALTORS®, the world of public policy is uncharted territory — the inner workings of local and state government and the law and policy that emerge are often shrouded in intimidating mystery.  I want to take the time in this article to encourage eliminating that mystery and to develop a better understanding of how your involvement in MAR Public Policy can benefit our industry. 

While the 26 members of the MAR Public Policy Committee have a substantial deal of input in shaping the association’s public policy, there is a significant need for active involvement at the local level.  Many of our local associations have governmental affairs committees that are in place to explore arising local – business issues that may impact REALTORS®.

However, there are still many of the 44 local associations that do not have such a committee.  I encourage you to become an advocate in your community. Bring issues to the attention of your local association. The affairs of local and state government are extremely important to our regulated industry. 

In addition to the Public Policy Committee, MAR has four regional field directors who interact regularly with their assigned local associations. These field directors serve to bring your concerns to the state association. They are available to visit general membership meetings and field questions and concerns. The purpose behind organizing at a local level is to efficiently monitor issues that may be ripe for challenge or support while the issues are still in the early organizational stages. 

Many issues critical to local associations, such as zoning or septic ordinances and permitting are best handled by being fully aware of any and all developments.  Finding that an issue has already undergone development before the REALTOR® community has had the chance to weigh in is an undesirable position. 

Interaction at the local level is also important in shaping public opinion about the issues impacting this industry.  Communicating our positions to the general public is vital to our success in the arena of ideas, but also for our business.  Outside interests unfairly placing labels or negative generalizations about REALTORS® can do just as much damage as an unfriendly local ordinance or state law.  That is bad for business and the future of the communities in which we live and work. 

I hope to encourage REALTORS® to get more involved in the grassroots development of public policy by spotting issues that impact you locally and voicing your concern. I am confident that many of you reading the articles in this issue will come away with a better understanding of how proactive MAR’s Public Policy team is in Lansing and throughout the entire state.  MAR’s ability to shape public policy is the best method of protecting our industry and the rights of property owners across Michigan.