Government Affairs Events, Meetings, and Seminars
Event Re-Cap
2007 Legislative Breakfast
On Friday, February 23, 2007 the HBA held a legislative breakfast, hosted at the Toll Brothers Design Studio in Horsham. This event was very well attended by members and elected officials alike. David Brandschain, HBA President, Joe Price, Industry Action Committee Co-Chair, and Lou Biacchi from the Pennsylvania Builders Association, briefed the legislators and other members on key legislative issues and local concerns. Additionally, Senator Greenleaf, Senator Wonderling, Representatives Mensch, Murt, Vereb, Quigley, and Larry Glick from the Office of Congressmen Patrick Murphy spent the morning mingling with members and listening to their concerns. This was a wonderful event that we hope to continue in the future.
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2007 PAC Fundraiser
On Wednesday, April 11, 2007, the HBA held the annual fundraiser for the Bucks/Montgomery Committee for Affordable Housing, the Political Action Committee of the HBA of Bucks and Montgomery Counties. The event was hosted at the home of John Sukonik in Villanova and featured special guest Bill Bergey, former Philadelphia Eagle.
The strength of the HBA’s Political Action Committee, as demonstrated at the fundraiser, is the membership. These individuals, builders, developers, and associates, dedicate their personal dollars for the financial success of the PAC. This year’s event continued the tradition of dedication and commitment to the legislative and political efforts of the Association. In total, the event raised over $20,000, which will be used to support pro-housing candidates now and in the future.
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Breakfast with Congressman Patrick Murphy
Freshman Congressman Patrick Murphy (PA-8) joined members of the Home Builders Association of Bucks and Montgomery Counties, on August 8th, to offer some insight on what is happening in Washington, D.C, as it relates to the home building industry.
Specifically, Murphy advised builders of the move to create tax incentives for homes constructed using environmentally friendly (“green”) techniques, especially with the consideration of HR 3221. Additionally, he discussed the growing need for funding of infrastructure, highlighted by the tragedy in Minneapolis. However, he insisted that any funding directed to specific projects, developments, or plans, must be monitored, measured, and reviewed until its completion. The Congressman also noted that there is a sense of urgency in Washington to keep interest rates low, to assist the recovery of the housing market nation wide.
Congressman Murphy opened the presentation to a vibrant question and answer session with the HBA members. He encouraged dialogue at the breakfast, but also relayed the importance of an ongoing relationship and strong communication with the HBA.
Congressman Patrick Murphy was elected in November of 2006 to represent Pennsylvania’s 8th Congressional district. Prior to his election Congressman Murphy served in Iraq, was a professor at West Point and a criminal prosecutor. He currently serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. In addition to his committee service, Congressman Murphy is a “Blue Dog Democrat” committed to fiscal responsibility and accountability.
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