Bob Marchewka, One Commercial Real Estate

This is the month I talk about giving to the REALTORS Political Action Committee (RPAC). 

Political action committees often connote images of presidential, senate and congressional races and seem to just add to the massive amounts of money poured into Washington, but RPAC can work differently for us if we participate in the process.

If we work directly with this program we can direct funds back into our State and support candidates at the State and local levels that share our beliefs and viewpoints about the commercial real estate industry in our communities. 

Since 1969, RPAC has promoted the election of pro-REALTOR candidates across the United States. The purpose of RPAC is clear: REALTORS raise and spend money to elect candidates who understand and support their interests. The money to accomplish this comes from voluntary contributions made by REALTORS. These are not members’ dues; this is money given freely by REALTORS in recognition of how important campaign fundraising is to the political process. RPAC doesn’t buy votes. RPAC enables REALTORS to support candidates that support the issues that are important to their profession and livelihood.

As we attempt to build bridges of communication between the development community and municipalities through our real estate development forums we should also be supporting those individuals for state and local offices, boards, committees, etc. that are able to understand the merits of our business and the value it can bring to our communities and the State of New Hampshire. 

The 2016 total statewide goal of the New Hampshire Association of REALTORS is to have 37% of its members donate to RPAC.  Historically about 25% of NH CIBOR members consistently contribute.  This year I would like to increase our percentage to a minimum of 40% and here’s why: 

The more members we have supporting RPAC the more likely it is that our members will be directly involved in helping shape our state and local political policies relative to commercial real estate. 

As the only commercial real estate board in New Hampshire and a board that encompasses the entire state we should be leaders in this effort.

The minimum donation is only $15!

I look forward to your support of RPAC now or as a part of your July dues payment.  I would also welcome anyone who would like to join me on the RPAC committee to help shape our strategy for our participation in, and utilization of, this important program.

Bob Marchewka is the 2016 president of the New Hampshire Commercial and Investment Board of Realtors, Bedford, N.H.