BOMA continues to fight for the interest of a property owner - by Ron Goodin

I know I promised to not speak publicly about politics, yet I can’t help myself. I was raised in a very politically charged family, where my father was a very gregarious and outspoken aficionado of the Connecticut political scene. My uncle was a friend of the late Senator Thomas J. Dodd, and was eulogized several years ago by his son, former Senator Christopher Dodd. Through my post-college years, I was happy to let the political winds blow as they may. Yet over the past decade or so, I’ve come to truly appreciate how our forefathers would devise the most eloquent political system the civilized world has ever known—over 230 years ago! Of course we still have our issues. Say what you may, especially after viewing the forums, debates, caucuses and the recent primary campaign developments. No matter which horse you attach your wagon to; at least you have a choice. Earlier this month, I and several hundred national BOMA delegates had the distinct pleasure of visiting our nation’s capital for BOMA’s Winter Business Meeting & National Issues Conference. After our team’s preparation, we were dispatched to our respective congressmen and senators. Although we were going as constituents, it had a feeling a little like being a lobbyist. If you did not realize how hard BOMA continues to fight for the interest of a property owner, a visit to our website would clarify that. The agenda was to review energy efficiency abatements, learn how to shorten the depreciation of sprinkler system installation expense from the current 39 years to 15 years, and lastly, to mitigate “drive-by” lawsuits on potential ADA issues, without a chance to review or show progress is being made. It was fascinating to see that side of the political process and I hold it among the most enjoyable things I’ve done during my BOMA presidency. Please consider joining our long-time sponsors and help by sponsoring us as well. Our committees are getting full and a great way to get involved, Pick one that looks like fun. There is no better way to get involved and make an impact on your Hartford BOMA. Ron Goodin is the president of BOMA Greater Hartford, and is with Fletcher Thompson Architects, Hartford, Conn.