GMAR



GMAR Board Of DirectorsThursday, March 21, 2019 ? 12:00 PMGMAR Office ? Wauwatosa, WIMeeting AgendaWelcome & IntroductionsConsent Agenda P 2 Approval 5 MinReportsChairwoman Treasurer 2018 GMAR Audit* Jenny Tarkowski, Wegner CPAsJanuary FinancialsPresident Departments HGS Government Affairs Professional Standards MLS P 14P 17Information ApprovalApprovalInformationInformation ApprovalInformation5 Min15 Min5Min20 Min5 Min15 Min15 MinOld Business NoneNew Business NoneAdjourn 2:00 PMNext Directors Meeting: Thursday, May 9th * Indicates information will be available at the Directors meeting.Updated: DATE \@ "M/d/yyyy h:mm am/pm" 3/18/2019 11:37 AMGMAR Board Of DirectorsConsent AgendaIt is moved, seconded and carried to approve the minutes of the Board of Directors meeting from January 17, 2019.p. 3It is moved, seconded and carried to approve of the 223 new members who have applied to become members of the GMAR and paid the appropriate fees.p. 8GREATER MILWAUKEE ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS?BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING MINUTESThursday, January 17, 2018 ? 12:00 PMGMAR OfficeCall to Order Chairwoman Amy Curler called the GMAR Directors meeting to order at 12:00 PM with a quorum present for the transaction of business.Present: Amy Curler, Chairwoman; Kel Svoboda, Chair-Elect; Courtney Stefaniak, Secretary/Treasurer; Vickie Kelsall, Past Chair; Jeremy Rynders, Gary Swittel, Joe Horning, Ted Dentice, Kim Curtis, Judy Hearst Staff Present: Mike Ruzicka, President; Scott Bush, VP Operations; Marne Stück, GAD; Amanda Falk, Dir of Promotions; Chris Carrillo, Metro, MLSExcused: Tammy Maddente, Tom Sykora, Roger Rushman, Kathy Martello, Arthur Mays, Angela WaltersGuest: Monica Baer, Baer CarlsonPublic Relations DiscussionMonica Baer lead a discussion with the Directors on topics the GMAR could advocate that local media cover in 2019. The discussion yielded several potential story/media events, and Ms. Baer will deliver an outline to Mr. Ruzicka with a plan to solicit various media outlets in the southeastern Wisconsin area during the year.Consent AgendaIt is moved, seconded and carried to approve the minutes of the Board of Directors meeting from November 15, 2018.It is moved, seconded and carried to approve of the 130 new members who have applied to become members of the GMAR and paid the appropriate fees.M/S/C to approve Consent Agenda.ReportsChairwoman’s ReportChairwoman, Amy Curler, stated that she’s looking forward to the coming year as chairwoman.Treasurer’s ReportMike Ruzicka, provided the following report on the 2019 GMAR Budget:2019 Proposed GMAR Budget – The 2019 budget is similar to the one the GMAR operated under for 2018. The GMAR’s two main sources of revenue, accounting for 90% of GMAR revenue, are member dues and the Home & Garden Show (HGS).Membership – The GMAR increased dues in 2018 by $3 (from $204 to $207). In 2019, the Association raised dues by $173 (to $380) in order to provide the SentriLock system to all members. Increasing dues, plus the cost of license renewal, drove some members to decide to leave the business.In September, 4,587 members were billed. As of December 1st, 71% (3,253) of those members renewed; leaving 1,334 who did not pay by the Nov 30th deadline. End-of-year numbers were not available, but over the last 3 years the GMAR averaged 535 renewals in December, and 311 in January. If those averages hold true, the renewal rate would be 89% (4,099), the lowest since 2012 (88%).349 people had their membership terminated on Jan 7th, losing access to all services. The GMAR has received dozens of calls from this group of people who want to rejoin. Michelle Kohn has estimated that about 150 of those people whose membership lapsed, will rejoin.If the GMAR does recover 150 members, plus the average renewals, renewals will be in the 93% area. In 2018 renewals were 96%, and 2017 was 95%.Comparisons with membership revenue are going to be very difficult in the future. The 2018 budget for member renewal revenue was $772,083, for 2019 $1,507,470 was budgeted.The SentriLock system is contained under Membership, and the annual expense for 2019 is $431,988 ($39,999/month). Promotions – The Home & Garden Show (HGS) lost a day in 2018, because of Easter. It is possible that 2019 will see a little more ticket revenue on the last day of the show. The Budget shows net revenue of $230,000. The budget shows $5,000 for the WRA Education Partnership, which has been in decline for several years. In 2018, a license renewal year, $10,000 budgeted.Professional Standards – In 2018 almost $11,000 was budgeted for the Fair Housing anniversary. For 2019, $15,000 is being budgeted for a Habitat for Humanity sponsorship.Public Policy – An additional $1,000 was added for Marne Stück to attend NAR’s GAD Institute.Leadership – Travel costs were increased by $3,000. The Association is continuing to purchase an oversample of NAR’s Consumer survey for the MKE market, as well as Milwaukee Bucks’ tickets for the 2019-2020 season.Administration – Most Administrative expenses are expected to be flat for 2018. Salaries and benefits up $42,468 due to the hiring of a full-time staff member, vs. a contract position. The GMAR has not included any revenue from renting the 2nd floor of the REALTOR? Building, as a measure of caution. The bottom line shows gross income of 2,844,040 with expenses of 2,617,452, for a net ending balance of $226,588 for FY 2019. However, we will have to take depreciation into account once the 2nd floor construction is done.M/S/C to approve the 2019 GMAR Budget as presented.Mr. Ruzicka also briefly reviewed the November 2018 GMAR financial reports.Statement of Financial Position (Balance Sheet) – As of November 30, 2018, GMAR had $2,295,198 in Cash & Investment Balances, up $199,729 compared to last year. Accounts receivable were down $39,257 compared to last year. Prepaid expenses were down $23,786 compared to 2017. Total Assets were $4,414,315 which is up $565,266 compared to 2017. On the Liability side, accounts payable were up $160,578 compared to last year due to the short term loan taken out to pay for the building remodel expenses. Accrued vacation expenses were up $2,114. Unearned Revenue is up $512,622 due to payment for the following year’s dues being greater this year than in 2017 (2019 dues increase). Overall, Total Liabilities were $2,407,179 which is up $670,731 compared to 2017.GMAR had Net Income of $60,960 through November 30, 2018, down $159,887 from last year. Overall, Total Net Assets were $2,007,135; $105,465 lower than the same point in 2017.Statement of Activities – Membership: Through November, 2018, $1,050,508 was collected in dues. Last year through the end of November, we had collected $955,224 in dues so dues are $95,284 ahead of last year at the same time. New member budget for 2018: 500 REALTORS?, 50 DRs and 20 Affiliates. Through November, actual new members: 671 REALTORS?, 40 DRs and 16 Affiliates. Promotions: Through November 30, Home and Garden Show income is $885,746 and expenses are $602,022 for a net income of $283,724.Expenses related to Public Policy and Professional Standards are basically all personnel costs, incurring expenditures primarily in Labor and Overhead. The only significant expenses are several event and organization sponsorships.Products (Wisconsin Real Estate Supply): The store was closed in December 2017. Some of the store products are for sale on consignment. A few forms are still being sold directly by GMAR.The Leadership section includes expenditures for meetings, committees, officer expenses, strategic planning, NAR Home Buyer and Seller survey and NAR meetings. The main expenses recorded through November were memberships for the president, sponsorships, the NAR buyers and sellers survey, president and officer meeting expenses, Milwaukee Bucks tickets, Packers tickets, and officer stipends.The Administrative section includes investment and rental income and expenses for professional fees, salaries, fringe benefits, building, insurance, occupancy, property taxes, general office expenses and depreciation.The bottom line shows Excess Receipts Over Expenditures of $60,960. Last year our net revenue was $220,847 for the same time periodM/S/C to approve the unaudited Statement of Financial Position (Balance Sheet) and Statement of Activities as of November 30, 2018, and recommend placing on file for audit.President’s ReportMike Ruzicka reported the following in addition to his written memorandum to the Board of Directors: GMAR Remodeling Update & GMAR Mortgage – VJS Construction finished working on the 2nd floor of the REALTOR? Building. The GMAR’s commercial broker, Dan Jessup, has started marketing the property. The building, finally, received an occupancy permit from the City of Wauwatosa, after several weeks of waiting while the elevator was fixed.Mr. Ruzicka provided a review of the building’s mortgage: On March 15, 2018, new building loan documents were signed. In April 2017, the GMAR’s building mortgage was due, with a balance of $314,000. BMO Harris extended the note for one year and the GMAR took out a construction loan for $300,000. A new loan, combining the outstanding mortgage and the new construction loan, is due to be ready to sign in the near future.Electronic Lock Boxes – The GMAR has trained about 80% of the total membership. Stacie Purko left the GMAR in November, and Michelle Kohn and Alberta Dhillon have very ably taken the reins of the program.There were 6,293 lockboxes in circulation, only 857 were actually assigned to listings. There were about 4,000 active listings. The staff has noticed that a lot of agents are asking for one-day codes to show properties, rather than use their SentriSmart app or card. Some listing brokers are telling selling brokers that they will only give out one, one-day code and encourage them to come to the GMAR and get their credentials.We are reaching out to brokers who are reluctant to use SentriLock and asking if we can attend office meetings, or host meetings at the GMAR for them.Habitat for Humanity/ReStore – The GMAR has budgeted a $15,000 line item in 2019 to do a “Rock the Block” clean-up in late summer/fall; allowing 45 volunteers to participate in the one-day event.The GMAR will also promoting the ReStore for listing agents to encourage their sellers to donate furnishings.DepartmentsGovernment AffairsMs. Stück reported:REALTOR & Government Day 2019 – RGD 2019 will be on Wednesday, April 24 this year. As in the past, there will be free/sponsored bus transportation to and from Madison. The legislative visits will remain the same as in the past with all Greater Milwaukee legislator invited to one hearing room to discuss Realtor issues. Please let Ms. Stuck know if you’d like to attend.Meeting with Top 25 Municipalities – Meetings with Mayors in Franklin, West Allis, Waukesha, New Berlin and Menomonee Falls are being scheduled with the goal of continuing to build relationships and educate elected officials on Realtor issues. If any Board members are interested in attending, please let Ms. Stuck know. Paul Farrow – GMAR along with CARW and NAIOP will host a luncheon fundraiser for Waukesha County Executive Paul Farrow on Feb. 20. Paul is up for re-election in April this year and has been a longtime supporter of our industry. Ms. Stuck will send an invitation to the Board for anyone who may be interested in contributing and/or attending. Waukesha County Neighborhood Initiative – Waukesha County Executive Farrow asked GMAR to assemble a team of 5 Realtors to be part of a “neighborhood initiative” discussion along with developers, builders, engineers and municipal leaders/planners on Jan. 22. For a background on what this group has done so far, read further; In Q1 2018, Waukesha County Executive Paul Farrow pulled together a group of builders, developers, and interested business leaders to discuss the workforce shortage in our county and the perception that there is a shortage of housing stock available for purchase by young professionals.Last summer, they held their first Neighborhood Initiative symposium at Quad Graphics in Sussex. The meeting was attended by local elected leaders and municipal planners, residential developers, home builders, and several large employers. They learned of the difficulties new and prospective employees have finding adequate housing in Waukesha County and believe there is a market of young professionals and young families seeking neighborhoods that they can afford and also meet their lifestyle needs. Their initiative hopes to identify ways to reduce the sale price of a home by cutting costs associated with government regulation, construction and development, and home design and sale. The plan going forward will examine each aspect of the development, construction, and sale of a home on individual teams, discuss how costs can be reduced in those areas, and then come together as a group and collaboratively work as a multi-disciplinary team to cut the sale price.? Their ultimate goal of the initiative is to identify a community within Waukesha County to implement the concepts developed by the group during this project.Professional Standards Scott Bush reported:M/S/C to adopt professional standards case E18-26 as presented.M/S/C that any suspension of membership resulting from disciplinary action for violations of the code of ethics or other membership duty, also include the suspension of MLS privileges.M/S/C to implement the NAR’s model citation policy for violations of articles 1 (sop 1-16) and 3 (sop 3-9) for allowing unauthorized access to property. Fine amount is $5,000.MLSChris Carrillo provided and update on recent developments at Metro MLS, Inc, including his reappointment as the RESO Board of Directors; MLS has stopped syndicating to ListHub; and the Monsoon app for members will feature listing and mortgage data, among other features.Old BusinessNoneNew BusinessNoneAdjournThe meeting adjourned at 1:38 PMAdjournThe meeting adjourned at 2:00 PMNew Member Report223 New Members joined January 10, 2019 - March 14, 2019 for approval (DR's - 23, R's - 196, A's - 4)FIRSTLASTCOMPANYCalliAdlerKeller Williams Realty~Milw North ShoreMandyAl-AnjeriKeller Williams Realty~Milw North ShoreBradleyAldenHomestead Realty Inc~MilwaukeeJohnAlvesJackRabbitRealtyLauraAnallaColdwell Banker Residential Brokerage~N ShoreLaurieAnsorge-VandeZandeRE/MAX Realty 100~M FallsCarolineArndtThe Kirchoff Group LLCJamieAusloosAvenue Real Estate LLCCharlesAwosikaBroadway, REALTORS LLCAnthonyBanyardWiley Realty GroupBrianBartschBartsch Management LLCCarmenBarwickExit Realty HorizonsJamesBertolliKeller Williams Realty~Lake CountryKathleenBertramShorewest, REALTORS~W NorthKeyuanBianHomestead Realty Inc~MilwaukeeAngelaBinderKeller Williams Realty~Milwaukee SWColetteBodenRealty Executives Integrity~BrookfieldRonaldBorowskiPremier Point Realty LLCBillyBowersReal Estate Technical ServiceJeremyBreenKeller Williams Realty~Milwaukee SWHeatherBreen ThreatsRE/MAX HeritageBrittanyBrzenkKeller Williams Realty~Lake CountryMelissaBurazinShorewest, REALTORS~MorelandJasmineBurnsideExit Realty XLJenniferBuzzellList 4 Less MLS of WisconsinZackaryCainAvenue Real Estate LLCJoelCastilloColdwell Banker Residential Brokerage~OgdenAmberCastonguayEXP Realty, LLC~Prairie Du ChienDavidClaussenShorelander Lake Country Real EstateJesseColasHomeWire RealtyChristopherColosimoThe Real Estate Co, Lake & Country IncShawnCreightonBenefit RealtyDebraCroftKeller Williams Realty~Milw North ShoreAngeliqueCruzEXP Realty, LLC~MKEAngelaCuevasCherry Home Realty LLCClarisseDavisKeller Williams Realty~Milw North ShoreDouglasDecentBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Metro RealtyCatherineDeMuthShorewest, REALTORS~N OaklandRyanDerdaShorewest, REALTORS~DowntownSusanDeZutelPowers Realty Group~MequonAustinDuerrBluebell RealtyTammyEliasBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Metro RealtyMariahElkinsRedefined Realty Advisors LLCMaggieEllingsonBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Metro RealtyNeilEvensRE/MAX Service First LLCAlexFernhaberJason Scott Realty & Management LLCEmily FerreyShorewest, REALTORS~N OaklandMichaelFitzpatrickRealty Executives Integrity~HartlandRichardFranzelMidwest Realty Group LLCKathleenFrassetto SuhrAll-American Business ConsultantsEricFreibergShorewest, REALTORS~West BendSarahFreiheitLake Country ListingsDavidFrias-PradoNextHome My WayAlyshaFrisvoldColdwell Banker EliteMichaelFritzFirst Weber Inc~DLFJenniferFuegerShorewest, REALTORS~N OaklandJoelGalarzaRealty Executives SoutheastKimberlyGeierRE/MAX Realty Center~OconomowocTabithaGermanShorewest, REALTORS~OCLaTanyaGheeMonarch Real Estate & Property Mgmt.ThomasGroskopfPremier Point Realty LLCAndreaHaasColdwell Banker Residential Brokerage~OgdenDavidHackbarthRE/MAX United LLC~CedarburgRickHagenauHagenau Auction & Real Estate LLCKarenHaglundFirst Weber Inc~NPWJosephHaiderFirst Weber Inc~BKKathrynHallPowers Realty GroupJamesHarrisHarris Storefront RealtyR. TimothyHarronHarron RealtyMayshengHayHomeWire RealtyJosephHazelwoodJoseph Hazelwood Jr Realty GroupEllenHennesHomestead Realty Inc~MilwaukeePhillipHenschelMyPro Realty LLCDennisHermanCrossroads Real Estate LLCPrincessHighNextHome My WayAlexandraHirschKeller Williams Realty~Milw North ShorePatriciaHittmanHomestead Realty Inc~MilwaukeeJackHoltCentury 21 Affiliated~WauwatosaCarrieHoppeShorewest, REALTORS~MeadowbrookJennyHostos CalderonEmmer Real Estate GroupHashonaHuntEXP Realty, LLC~MKELisaHuronThe Agency: Real Estate Professionals LLCMeghanIgielskiCentury 21 Affiliated~DelafieldJustinIppolitiShorewest, REALTORS~South MetroMariIrishKeller Williams Realty~Milwaukee SWJasmineJacksonHomestead Realty Inc~MilwaukeeDavidJalowiecColdwell Banker HomeSale Realty~FranklinKaraJohnsonEmpowerment Realty Group LLCElwynJonesKeller Williams Realty~Milwaukee SWTabathaJordanHomestead Realty Inc~MilwaukeeErinJoslynColdwell Banker Residential Brokerage~N ShoreRobertKagelRWK Appraisal Services LLCDavidKelleyKelley PropertyNicoleKocejaChudnow Druck Valuation, Inc.BrittanyKoeppenAvenue Real Estate LLCCraigKonklePremier Point Realty LLCNicholasKozakLake Breeze RealtyChristineKramer NesbittBeyond Realty BrokerageSethKrenekVenture Realty LLCColtonKruppPowers Realty Group~MequonAndrewKuehlKeller Williams Fox CitiesAbigailLarsenPowers Realty Group~ShorewoodBendellLeeSolution Realty LLCJeffreyLemmerShorewest, REALTORS~South MetroVeronicaLewandowskiColdwell Banker HomeSale Realty~FranklinDamonLewisOgden, The Real Estate CompanyJacobLipkeShorewest, REALTORS~OCDemetraLockShorewest, REALTORS~MeadowbrookBrianLorenceRealty Executives Integrity~BrookfieldJohnLudwigPremier Point Realty LLCDavidLundHomestead Realty Inc~MilwaukeeJamieMallasTown & Lake RealtyHayleyMaloneRE/MAX InsightPamelaManningFirst Weber Inc~BKMarkMatenaerShorewest, REALTORS~West BendDanielMayKeller Williams Realty~Milw North ShoreSandraMaylenResponse, REALTORSErikMcKennaSmart Asset Realty IncGretchenMenardShorewest, REALTORS~N OaklandChristMesolorasEncompass Realty~MetroJosephMillerNorth Shore Homes IncJeffreyMitchelRE/MAX Realty 100~MilwaukeeTemeekaMitchellFirst Weber Inc~NPWChadMontalbanoThe Real Estate Center, A Wisconsin LLCEloisaMorales Del RealEXP Realty, LLC~MiddletonMiriamMorenoShorewest, REALTORS~South MetroMaqboolMuhammadHomeWire RealtyJavonneMullinsKeller Williams Realty~Milw North ShoreMarieMussomeliShorewest, REALTORS~N OaklandRoselleMussomeli-SturdevantShorewest, REALTORS~N OaklandSowandeNadeemOne Day Real Estate ServicesMarquietaNash-WhiteColdwell Banker HomeSale Realty~ CorporateMaripatNaultNorth Shore Homes IncWalterNelsonMilwaukee Executive RealtyScottNewcomerHouse To Home InspectionsWesleyNosekKurtz Realty IncCourtneyNygrenBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Metro RealtyEricObarskiNeumann Companies IncTashaOlsonRealty Executives Elite~Hales CornersEsmeraldaOrtizColdwell Banker HomeSale Realty~FranklinNicoleOsburnExit Realty HorizonsSarahOttenShorewest, REALTORS~OCGenevaOwensMilwaukee's Best Real Estate Services LLCBrittanyPalmerRE/MAX Realty Center~OconomowocAutumnPeachShorewest, REALTORS~OCAnthonyPetrieJohnson Financial GroupPierrePhillipsHPB Realty LLCCarolinePhoenixRE/MAX Lakeside~CapitolKaitlynPresserColdwell Banker HomeSale Realty~FranklinKylePruessShorewest, REALTORS~MNM FallsEduardoPuglieseShorewest, REALTORS~South MetroJamesPurfuerstRE/MAX Realty 100~MilwaukeeKeenanQuinlevanShorewest, REALTORS~MequonVeronicaRamirezSteel Horse, REALTOR LLCMyeshaRandolphVERA Residential Real Estate LLCThadRankinShorewest, REALTORS~MeadowbrookMariamaRashaedSolution Realty LLCMichaelReddickKeller Williams Realty~Milwaukee SWPeterReinertKeller Williams Realty~Milw North ShoreBrendaReyesNextHome My WayJosephRisseNorth Shore Homes IncPedroRiveraNextHome My WayShamoneRollinsKeller Williams Realty~Milwaukee SWCarlosRothRealty Among Friends LLCSunnyRothmeierMidwest Realty Group LLCTacarraRoundtreeKeller Williams Realty~Milw North ShoreRachaelRugglesContero Real Estate LLCKimberlyRummelBoss Realty LLCJacquelineSalemmeHomeowners Concept-MetrostarBrittanySchirmeisterShorewest, REALTORS~W NorthAdamSchreckShorewest, REALTORS~West BendReneeSchultzExit Realty XLSareenaSchwabeKeller Williams Realty~Milwaukee SWTimothySiddersKeller Williams Realty~Milwaukee SWToddSiegelRocket Homes Real Estate LLCNicoleSiekertShorewest, REALTORS~OCBriannaSievertRealty Executives Integrity~BrookfieldTimothySmartSmart Realty CoHopeSmithColdwell Banker Residential Brokerage~OgdenNathanSniegKeller Williams Realty~Milwaukee SWCamilleSowaOgden, The Real Estate CompanyJenniferStacheColdwell Banker HomeSale Realty~FranklinSarahStarkPatrick Bolger Realty GroupKristenStormsColdwell Banker HomeSale Realty~ CorporateGeoffryStuhrSmart Asset Realty IncTerenceSunCherry Home Realty LLCMichelleSzeklinskiPremier Point Realty LLCDawnTarpeyFirst Weber Inc~NPWTanyaTerrell-HutchinsonRealty Executives SoutheastAndrewThomasThe Kirchoff Group LLCFernandoTopeteFirst Weber Inc~BKHeatherTownsendKeller Williams Realty~Milw North ShoreLeeTurnerBell Bank MortgageHeatherVaradyNorth Shore Homes IncSusanVerPlankWestridge BuildersTimVertzHomegate Direct Realty LLCMichaelVigilShorewest, REALTORS~DowntownKaitlinVytlacilKeller Williams Realty~Milwaukee SWBlakeWaldowShorewest, REALTORS~MeadowbrookTierraWalkerEXP Realty, LLC~MiddletonJacquelineWardOgden, The Real Estate CompanyJulieWendorfLeitner PropertiesNicoleWendtRealty Executives Integrity~BrookfieldLukasWesselLandGuys, LLCEvanWiesnerJohn T Wiesner Real EstateJazmanWilksShorewest, REALTORS~W NorthJasonWilliamsCity of West Allis Assessor's OfficeTonyWillinghamShorewest, REALTORS~DowntownMargaretWillmsRealty Executives Integrity~NorthshoreJonathanWolfExit Realty XLPatriciaWoodsCitizens BankDarryWorthamExit Realty XLVanessaWrenExit Realty XLBarbaraWroczynskiExit Realty XLAtheeXiongKeller Williams Realty~Milw North ShorePaYangACTS Community Development CorpMatthewYogerstRE/MAX Realty 100~MilwaukeeDustinYoungPremier Point Realty LLCStevenYurkRealty Executives Integrity~BrookfieldClaireZastrowRealty Executives Integrity~HartlandJaclynZenoniFirst Weber Inc~BKAaronZiebartMilwaukee Executive RealtyRebeccaZillmerDiscount Rate Realty LLCMembership categories: DR = Designated REALTOR?, R = REALTOR?, RN = REALTOR? No National; A = Affiliate, AC = Affiliate Corporate, LAC = Local Affiliate Corporate, LACC = Local Affiliate Corporate Contact*Includes former GMAR members who had to rejoin the GMAR as new members.2019 GMAR Budget-107569089154000January 2019 Financial NotesStatement of Financial Position (Balance Sheet)As of January 31, 2019, GMAR had $2,450,820 in Cash & Investment Balances, up $203,320 compared to last year. Accounts receivable were up $33,595 compared to last year due primarily to more outstanding Home and Garden receivables. Prepaid expenses were down $18,192 compared to 2018 due to all inventory being written off.Fixed Assets increased by $395,724 due to the building remodel. Total Assets were $4,458,932 which is up $614,447 compared to 2018.On the Liability side, accounts payable were down $232,469 compared to last year due the mortgage being re-done and no longer being considered a short term loan. Accrued vacation expenses were up $10,966. Overall, Total Liabilities were $897,070 which is up $179,558 compared to 2018.GMAR has a Net Gain of $1,844,264 through January 31, 2019, up $663,465 from last year. Overall, Total Net Assets were $3,561,862; $434,889 higher than the same point in 2018.Statement of ActivitiesMembership: Through January, 2019, $1,588,614 was collected in dues. Last year through the end of January, we had collected $858,236 in dues so dues are $730,378 ahead of last year at the same time. The increase in dollars is due to the 2019 dues increase. GMAR had an 88% renewal based on number of members billed. Budgeted for a 90% renewal. New member budget for 2019: 500 REALTORS?, 50 DRs and 20 Affiliates. Through January, actual new members: 84 REALTORS?, 4 DRs and 3 Affiliates.Promotions: Through January 31, Home and Garden Show income is $588,072 and expenses are $218,596 for a net income of $369,476. This will change significantly over the next several months. Budgeted net income for the Show is $288,066.Expenses related to Public Policy and Professional Standards are basically all personnel costs, incurring expenditures primarily in Labor and Overhead. The only significant expenses are several events and organization sponsorships.Products (Wisconsin Real Estate Supply): The store was closed in January 2018. Some of the store products were for sale on consignment in 2018. All inventory was written off as of 12/31/2018.The Leadership section includes expenditures for meetings, committees, officer expenses, strategic planning, NAR Home Buyer and Seller survey and NAR meetings. The main expenses recorded through January were memberships for the president, sponsorships, and the NAR buyers and sellers survey.The Administrative section includes investment and rental income and expenses for professional fees, salaries, fringe benefits, building, insurance, occupancy, property taxes, general office expenses and depreciation.The bottom line shows Excess Receipts over Expenditures of $1,844,264. Last year our net revenue was $1,180,799 for the same time period. By far the most significant reason for this change was the increase of dues, which will largely be offset throughout the year by monthly payments to SentriLock.Statement of Financial Position (Balance Sheet)-127635205476-4572025717500Statement of Activities.MEMORANDUMTo: GMAR Board of DirectorsFrom: Mike Ruzicka, PresidentRe:March President’s Report2020 NAR CommitteesNAR will be accepting applications to join the committees for 2020 from March 1 through May 1 at mitteeApp.realtor. NAR committees provide opportunities to play a role in steering the association and are a forum for discussion about issues that are impacting NAR and the real estate industry.Also, starting in 2020 to be eligible for Emeritus status a member must have served on an NAR committee during their career.REALTOR? Building Remodeling & Mortgage UpdateIn December, well after VJS Construction finished working on the 2nd floor, we received an occupancy permit from the City of Wauwatosa, which was delayed because a small bridge to the elevator not being installed to their satisfaction.Once the permit was granted our commercial broker, Dan Jessup, started marketing the property. In the last month we have had two serious inquiries into renting the property, and have received one offer. I will have more information at the Directors meeting.On February 13th GMAR Chairwoman, Amy Curler, GMAR Secretary/Treasurer, Courtney Stefaniak and I signed new mortgage documents, combining the balance of the previous mortgage and the recent construction loan, for a new total of $415,848.51. It is a 5-year loan at 5.2% and will mature on 02/06/2024.SentriLock UpdateWe have 6,613 lockboxes in circulation, 1,286 are assigned to listings (857 in January). There are about 4,000 active listings.Approximately 1,347 members have still not picked up their credentials (includes those who have left the GMAR, so it might be a high number).As more members use the system the incidences of problems with Android phones and user error grows. We let SentriLock know about the Android issue, which is a Bluetooth connection problem (powering a phone off and on usually resolves it). Aside from that, generally 90% of the time a problem with the system can be attributed to “user error.”There is growing contention between agents asking for one-day codes to show properties (rather than using their SentriSmart app or card) and listing agents. Some listing agents are telling selling agents that they will only give out 1 one-day code and encourage them to come to the GMAR and get their credentials.We are reaching out to agents and brokers who are reluctant to use SentriLock and ask if we can attend office meetings, or host meetings at the GMAR for them. We have attended 12 office meeting in the last month.Habitat for Humanity/ReStoreWe are donating $15,000 to Habitat for Humanity this year to do a “Rock the Block” clean-up. The date we have selected is Thursday, August 15th. We will be able to have 45 volunteers in the one-day event.We are also promoting the ReStore for listing agents to encourage their sellers to donate furnishings. Jodee Benavides heads up the Business Engagement Division of Habitat and he is available to attend office meetings to explain how ReStore works and how REALTORS? can utilize it. He can be contacted at jbenavides@ or 414-688-6550.NAR / Wall Street JournalYou might have seen the opinion piece in the Wall Street Journal, titled, “When You Buy or Sell a Home, Realty Bites.” It is a completely erroneous and logically tenuous pile of garbage that I’m shocked was given any credence by an august publication like the WSJ. However, the WSJ does have a history of anti-REALTOR?/organized real estate sympathies.NAR submitted a counter argument, titled, “How Realtors Add Value for Their Customer“ which dismisses every weak argument the authors of the opinion piece made.Also, Inman News and Real Trends both came out with articles on the rival WSJ opinions in “National Association of Realtors takes on 'Wall Street Journal' op-ed” and “Commentary: The Problem With The Wall Street Journal Op-Ed by REX,” respectively.The authors of the “Realty Bites” opinion piece are attempting to become another Zillow and apparently think that trashing the rest of the industry helps their cause and satisfies their investors. The Real Trends article summarizes the larger issue well:”Wall Street and Silicon Valley have been trying for 25 years to blow up our industry and do away with agents, and, in some cases, brokerage firms. They haven’t succeeded yet. Even the best of the real estate tech firms, Zillow and , have found that using agents in their service delivery is critical to their business success.Whether REX succeeds or not, the execs who spent their time writing these unfounded and unsupportable claims should spend more of their time focusing on how they can offer something compelling as a way to win the hearts and minds of consumers. Otherwise, they’re just wasting their investor’s money.”NAR / MLS Lawsuits Equally erroneous is a lawsuit being brought over the sharing of commissions between buyers and listing brokers in a transaction. Inman News summarized the lawsuit in an article, titled, ”Suit alleges NAR, Realogy, HomeServices of America, RE/MAX and Keller Williams violate the Sherman Antitrust Act by requiring 'buyer broker compensation.”The suits takes issues with the “compensation” part of “cooperation and compensation,” as every participant in MLS agrees to do, stating that it is an antitrust violation. The plaintiffs believe buyers should pay their broker, not “make” the seller pay the buyer’s agent.We will have more on this lawsuit at the Directors meeting.Home & Garden Show (HGS)The show is ready for its first weekend March 22-24, and the shows finances are coming along very well.?201720182019Exhibit Space$720,131$705,696?$725,396Sponsorships$43,700$48,000?$44,900# of Exhibitors330316?342# VIP Tickets Ordered114,900116,100?112,400**We didn’t extend the final deadline for VIP Tickets this year. In 2018 we did extend the deadline and sent out 7,000 tickets. This year we sold regular tickets after the deadline had passed, at an “industry rate” of $5 per ticket. As of March 13th we sold $800 worth of ernment AffairsA large part of our meeting will be dedicated to Government Affairs. We have two school referenda to examine in West Bend and Shorewood, and potentially one in New Berlin.We would like to discuss a way to quantify candidate qualifications by creating a scorecard for the Association to use to rate existing and potential candidates. Marne has gathered ideas from other associations around the country, specifically one in St Petersburg, FL.We would also like to review the GMAR Public Policy agenda in our strategic plan.Recurring Status ReportsGMAR Member InvolvementP 20MLS MembershipP 21GMAR Organizational ChartP 222019 GMAR Directors RosterP 232019 GMAR CalendarP 242018 GMAR Strategic PlanP 26-37782531686500GMAR Member Involvement-15220236830000MLS Membership StatisticsGMAR Staff Flow Chart-111950513716002019 GMAR Board of DirectorsTerms expiring12/31/2019Terms expiring12/31/2020Terms expiring12/31/2021Tammy MaddenteFirst Weber Inc.611 N Barker Rd Ste 100Brookfield, WI 53045O 414.797.7100 M 414.617.8902tmaddente@ NRDS: 90015815 (3yr term from Exec Roundtable)Kathy MartelloRE/MAX Realty 10010303 W Oklahoma AvenueMilwaukee, WI 53227O? 262.255.9200 M 414.550.3617kmartello@ NRDS: 90031322 (3yr term from Exec Roundtable)Joe HorningShorewest, Realtors17450 W. North Ave.Brookfield, WI??53045-4337O?262.827.4200 jhorning@NRDS: 90096259 (3yr term from Exec Roundtable)Vickie Kelsall, Past Chair Century 21 Affiliated (1st Term)11623 W. Bluemound RdWauwatosa, WI 53226-3936O 414.543.5403 M 262.332.2233vkelsall@NRDS: 90010989Amy Curler, ChairwomanFirst Weber Inc (2nd Term)1720 Clarence CourtWest Bend, WI 53095-8543O 262.335.6280 M 414.550.6849acurler@ NRDS: 90019647Ted DenticeShorewest, Realtors (2nd Term)17450 W. North Ave.Brookfield, WI??53045-4337P?262.827.4200 tdentice@ NRDS: 90017283Kel Svoboda, Chair-ElectFirst Weber Inc. (2nd Term)4650 N Port Washington RdGlendale, WI 53212-1077O 414.962-3000 M 414.213.9014kel@ NRDS: 90098433Arthur MaysRealty Among Friends (2nd Term) 8301 W Lisbon AveMilwaukee, WI 53222-3859O 414.444.2696 M 414.975.7796amays@ NRDS: 90051977Kim Curtis (1st Term)Shorewest, Realtors2419 W. Washington St.West Bend, WI 53095M 262.707.2363kcurtis@ NRDS: 90060874Tom Sykora (2nd Term)Coldwell Banker Residential Brkrge 870 E Paradise DriveWest Bend, WI 53095-5383O 262.334.5589 M 262.573.7323tom.sykora@ NRDS: 90023055Jeremy Rynders (1st Term)Keller Williams Realty3830 S Moorland Rd, Suite C, New Berlin, WI 53151M: 414.795.6675jrynders@ NRDS: 090118704Angela Walters (1st Term)EXP Realty, LLC~MKE342 N Water St Ste 600Milwaukee, WI 53202-5715M 414.235.1152angela@ NRDS: 90094348 Roger RushmanFirst Weber Inc. (1st Term)2750 Golf Rd, Suite ADelafield, WI 53018-2063O 262.646.6800 M 414.333.5313 rrushman@ NRDS: 90015540Gary Swittel (1st Term) RE/MAX Realty 10010303 W Oklahoma AvenueMilwaukee, WI 53227M: 414.232.0930gary@ NRDS: 090031694Judy Hearst (1st Term)Coldwell Banker Residential Brkrge11303 N Port Washington RdMequon, WI 53092-3411P M 414.702.2064judy@ NRDS: 90045822 Courtney Stefaniak, Secretary/TreasurerThe Stefaniak Group (1st Term)2234 S 108th StMilwaukee, WI 53227-1108O: 414.541-2500 M: 262.271-5089castefaniak@ NRDS: 90113039 Mike – 885500353Marne – 90082562Scott – 8855001712019 GMAR Meetings & Events CalendarUpdate: DATE \@ "MMMM d, yyyy" March 18, 2019January1GMAR Fiscal Year begins11GMAR Executive Committee Meeting/Conference Call 17GMAR Board of Directors Meeting – 12:00 Noon, GMAR Headquarters 17-18WRA Board of Directors Meeting – Kohler, WI22GMAR Orientation 24GMAR Youth Foundation Board Meeting – GMARFebruary5 GMAR Orientation 7MLS BOD Meeting – Crowne Plaza Hotel, Wauwatosa11GMAR Audit – Wegner & Assoc.19Kettle Moraine Council Mardi Gras – The Hitchin’ Post, West Bend25Marquette Univ & GMAR/WRA Economic Summit – Italian Community Center March5GMAR Orientation 15GMAR Executive Committee Meeting/Conference Call 21GMAR Board of Directors Meeting – 12:00 Noon, GMAR Headquarters22-3195th REALTORS? Home & Garden Show – Wisconsin Expo Ctr, West Allis, WIApril2GMAR Orientation 18GMAR Youth Foundation Board Meeting – GMAR24REALTOR? & Government Day – Madison, WI 30Brewers Bash – Miller Park, Milwaukee, WIMay1GMAR Women’s Conference2GMAR Executive Committee Meeting/Conference Call 3WRA Board of Directors Meeting – WRA Headquarters7GMAR Orientation 9MLS BOD Meeting – TBA 9GMAR Board of Directors Meeting – 12:00 Noon, GMAR Headquarters13-18NAR Mid-Year Meetings – Washington, D.C.23Shredfest 24Deadline for 2020 NAR Committee ApplicationsJuneTBADowntown Diggs4GMAR Orientation 13-14WRA AE Conference – Arbor Vitae, WIJuly1GMAR BOD Candidate Applications available to membersTBAGMAR Executive Committee Meeting/Conference Call 9GMAR Board of Directors Mtg – Ironwood Golf Course9GMAR Summer Golf Outing – Ironwood Golf Course16GMAR Orientation 18GMAR Youth Foundation Board Meeting – GMARAugust1-2WRA BOD Meeting 6GMAR Orientation 11-13NAR Leadership Summit – Chicago, IL25Habitat for Humanity “Rock the Block”292019 WRA Leadership Summit – WRA TBAGMAR Nominating Committee Meeting – GMAR Headquarters31Last day for GMAR BOD Candidates to submit ApplicationsSeptember1Nominating Committee notification of BOD Candidates to membership10GMAR Orientation TBAKettle Moraine Council Wine Tasting Event5MLS BOD Meeting – TBA 10-11WRA Convention – Wisconsin Dells, WI TBAGMAR Executive Committee Meeting/Conference Call 19GMAR Board of Directors Meeting – 12:00 Noon, GMAR Headquarters30GMAR Board of Directors Write-In Candidate DeadlineOctober8GMAR Orientation13-19GMAR Board of Directors e-Election16-18CMLS Annual Conference – Salt Lake City, UT17GMAR Youth Foundation Board Meeting November 6-11NAR Convention – San Francisco, CA 5GMAR Orientation 8GMAR Executive Committee Meeting/Conference Call 21GMAR Youth Foundation Annual Meeting – 11:30 AM, GMAR Headquarters21GMAR Board of Directors Meeting – 12:00 Noon, GMAR HeadquartersDecember3GMAR Orientation4Chairman’s Holiday Party & GMAR Annual Mtg – Hyatt Downtown Milwaukee5WRA Management Conference – TBA31GMAR Fiscal Year endsGMAR Strategic PlanApproved by GMAR Board of Directors: March 15, 2018 Updated: DATE \@ "M/d/yyyy h:mm:ss am/pm" 3/18/2019 11:37:46 AMMission: “To help our members help their clients”Professional Standards/Ethics Government Affairs Promotions Multiple Listing Service (MLS) Leadership Committees / Task Forces Subsidiaries Outside Organizations/Affordable Housing Association Management Membership Communications Educational / Social Events HYPERLINK \l "Other" OtherProfessional Standards Goal #1:Keep members actively engaged in upholding the REALTOR? Code of Ethics (COE).Ethics education programsPathways to Professionalism educationAlert members about the need for everyone to be stewards of the COE: File a complaint if they experience a COE violation; Remind them that years in the business does not inoculate them to COE violations and; If they allow infractions to go unnoticed, and take control of their industry, it opens the door for gov’t intervention.Goal #2:Fairly and efficiently administer member arbitration program.Professional Standards Committee TrainingOffer Inter-board Arbitration Agreement to neighboring associationsGoal #3:Inform members of Professional Standards’ Program EffortsProduce videos on Professional Standards, newsletter articles, etc.Goal #4:Promote Fair Housing anniversary in 2018Government Affairs Goal #1:Establish Association policy(-ies) on issues of importance to create a thriving real estate market.Identify important policy issues that impact the real estate market.Conduct research on important policy issues to assist with Association positionsFocus on key “Quality of Life” topics to develop policy positions (Schools/Education, Taxation, Infrastructure, Jobs/Economic Development, Crime/Public Safety)Refer to Appendix A for current GMAR Public Policy / Gov’t Affairs Policy PositionsGoal #2:Create strategies to advocate adopted public policy positions, and update regularly.Goal #3:Maintain a high level of visibility among elected officials/policy makers in order to advocate issues and execute strategy effectively.Meet with elected officials/policy makersTop 25 Communities (Mayors/Aldermen)MPS Superintendent/Board MembersRegional County LeadersState Senators/Representatives from regionCandidates for OfficesClosely monitor developments in the City of Milwaukee, specifically:Department of Neighborhoods (DNS) (Mayoral)Department of City Development (DCD) (Mayoral)Zoning, Neighborhoods and Development Committee (ZND) (Council)Other committees/task forces as neededHeighten GMAR’s profile among policymakers via strategic sponsorshipsParticipate in events like MMAC’s Madison Night in Milwaukee, Milwaukee Night in Washington, DC, WisPolitics Headliner Luncheons, Wisconsin Policy Forum, etc.Send quarterly analysis of housing market statistics to local municipalities.Host GMAR candidate schools at regular intervals to educate members on how to run for elective office, and to get members to think about running in the future in order to promote the GMAR’s pro-real estate public policy agenda. Utilize 3rd Party Funds to carry out goals and objectives:WRA Homeowners AllianceNAR Realtor Party – “Call-for-Action System,” RPAC FR grants, RPAC Major Donor Recognition, Voter Registration Drive, etc.Goal #4:Provide information on government policies, laws, ordinances, and resources to members to help them effectively conduct their business.Update Sign Ordinance DatabaseQuarterly GAD video Goal #5:Keep the Concerned REALTORS? Political Action Committee (CRPAC) funded in order to promote pro-REALTOR? candidates and elected officials.Recruit New CRPAC TrusteesExplore term limits for CRPAC trusteesPromote Direct Giver & CRPAC/RPAC GivingSee Appendix B: 2018 GMAR PAC Fundraising PlanGoal #6:Inform members of Government Affairs Program Efforts and AccomplishmentsPromotions Goal #1:Promote events to the public that highlight the services REALTORS? provide.Goal #2:Educate consumers about home ownership and the real estate market.Goal #3:Generate revenue for the Association.Goal #4:Promote Successful Home & Garden Show (HGS)Better linkage between HGS website and similar pages on , also Facebook and Twitter accountsTarget seminars to first-time buyersClass/session on mortgage and first-time homebuyer incentivesNew trends in show promotions (i.e. cooking stage, ‘Green,’ home technology)Look at ideas/trends at other national shows (i.e. Philadelphia Flower Show)Conduct consumer / attendee surveyGoal #5:Promote Urban Housing Event(s) Promote Downtown Diggs (formerly Downtown Open House) in MilwaukeeExamine hosting similar events in other neighborhoods and cities (i.e. Waukesha, West Bend)Multiple Listing Service (MLS) Goal #1:Create environment for MLS to provide effective services to GMAR membersStay abreast of latest MLS issuesJointly promote member technology educationExplore topics/issues to promote to members and/or the publicLeadership Board of Directors Goal #1:Make informed decisions that are in the best interest of the members of the GMAR and the future of the real estate industry.Measure member opinions and sentiment via polls and focus groupsGoal #2:Provide Adequate Oversight of GMAR Functions, Policies and Finances.Review and update GMAR bylaws in 2018Eliminate BOD Affiliate memberChange executive committee to 4 people (Chair, Chair-Elect, Past Chair, Secretary Treasurer)Executive Committee Goal #1:Function When the Board of Directors is Not in Session.Goal #2:Represent the GMAR at state and national real estate events and meetings. Executive Roundtable Goal #1:Assure representation of largest 10 firms (by membership)Committees / Task Forces / CouncilsNominating Committee Goal #1:To recruit the highest quality candidates to run for the GMAR Board of DirectorsAwards CommitteeGoal #1: Recognize GMAR members who excel in their real estate business and as members of the greater REALTOR? and real estate community.Affiliate of the YearDedicated Service AwardREALTOR? of the YearLifetime Achievement Award (when committee determines a candidate is worthy of the award)Professional Standards Committee (See: I. Professional Standards)Concerned REALTORS? Political Action Committee (CRPAC) (See: II. Government Affairs)Public Policy Task Force (See: II. Government Affairs)Kettle Moraine REALTORS? CouncilGoal #1:Represent members of Washington CountyYPN – Young Professionals NetworkGoal #1:Provide educational and networking opportunities for membersLeadership development programEthics trainingVeterans TFGoal #1:.R? Safety TFGoal #1:.Equal Opportunity / Fair Housing TFGoal #1:.SubsidiariesMultiple Listing Service (MLS) (See: IV. Multiple Listing Service (MLS))Youth Foundation Goal #1:Promote the welfare and betterment of children and young people, contributing to their physical and intellectual development and character formation.Outside OrganizationsGoal #1:Proactively support housing affordability in the GMAR market area.Place members in homebuyer education organizations (i.e. HRI)Goal #2:Improve GMAR’s reputation and influence in the non-profit and government housing agency universe.Encourage GMAR members to participate and take a leadership role in regional housing organizations (i.e. Fair Housing Council).Goal #3:Establish relationships with affiliated associations and organizations (i.e. Builders Association)Association Management Membership Goal #1:Streamline membership in the GMAR to be as effortless and efficient as possibleOnline membership registration Examine online orientation programGoal #2: New Member Orientation – Introduce new members to Professional Standards, Code of Ethics, Pathways to Professionalism, Fair Housing, and other important issuesGoal #3:Seek added value benefits for members Goal #4:Regularly evaluate Value Proposition for membersCreate compelling argument for GMAR membership.Contrast with other associations (i.e. What Does Your Association Do For You?, utilize member testimonials)Goal #5:Recruit Affiliate members to the GMARCreate webpage of Affiliate products and services (i.e. Lender loan products)Communications Internal (GMAR – Members)Goal #1:Distribute information that is relevant to members’ business Review at WRA, NAR, and other real estate resources to distributeLink useful resources (i.e. WI Taxpayers Alliance School Facts & Wisconsin Policy Forum Education Reports) to the websiteReview existing content to send out to members (See Membership section)Create GMAR Annual Report noting the current year’s goal and achievementsGoal #2:Evaluate internal GMAR communications strategyGoal #3:Utilize multiple platforms in communicating with membersE-mail, Social Media, E-Newsletter, YouTube/Video, In-Person Office VisitsExternal (GMAR – Public)Goal #4:Examine consumer focused Public Awareness Campaign on an annual basisGoal #5:Promote public relations/press coverage of GMAR to heighten REALTORS? imageEducational / Social Events Goal # 1:Provide venue for members to learn, network and socialize, reinforcing the benefits of membership.Economic Outlook SummitKMRC Mardi Gras Brewers Tailgate PartyWomen’s ConferenceGolf OutingKMRC Wine & Beer Event Holiday PartyYouth Foundation EventsSt. Patrick’s Day DashHappy HoursREALTOR? & Government DayYPN – Young Professional Network EventsOtherResearch & Statistics Goal #1:Set the agenda for the discussion of the housing market by disseminating statistics and analysis in the Greater Milwaukee market.Goal #2:Select research projects that will explore and promote understanding of the dynamics of the real estate market in Greater Milwaukee.Create research projects that offer GMAR members and/or the public and media with information on the housing market.Wisconsin Economic Summit with Marquette UniversityNAR Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers (Milwaukee Oversample)Consumer SurveyMonthly / Quarterly Housing Statistical AnalysisAppendix A: Public Policy / Government AffairsGMAR Public Policy PositionsMembers of the Greater Milwaukee Association of REALTORS? (GMAR) sell and market more than individual homes, land or businesses; they also sell the quality of life associated with property. This quality of life can extend well beyond the legal boundaries of property to social institutions that purchasers rely on in their daily lives. To customers and clients, as well as other members of the public, the community where a property is located is as important as the property itself.In recognizing the importance of the quality of life that is inextricably related to property, it is in the Association’s interest to influence activities and organizations which impact the quality of life associated with property, at its discretion.The GMAR has identified five general quality of life subject areas consisting of:Education/MPSTaxesJobs/Economic Development InfrastructurePublic Safety/CrimeWe refer to these five areas as “pillars” of the REALTOR? “Location, Location, Location” mantra regarding the most important aspects of the quality of life associated with a property. We call them pillars, because they shore up the “Location” mantra. If any one of the “pillars” begins to crumble, a property becomes less valuable.Education/MPS (Adopted by GMAR BOD 09/16/2010)The quality of schools is a significant component of the quality of life associated with property. In fact, the quality of schools is often the primary factor in the decision by families, and even businesses, on where to purchase property.With this knowledge, the linkage between real property and the quality of schools must also be of significant concern to REALTORS?, because the quality of schools is directly related to the ability of REALTORS? to conduct their business.GMAR Goal: To have a regional educational system that produces knowledgeable and skilled graduates who are capable of lifelong learning.2010-2011 AgendaSupport efforts to adopt federal "Race to the Top" standards including: Common standards and assessment. A system that provides timely reports on student performance. Elimination of any legal barrier to evaluating teachers and principals based on student achievement. Authority to intervene in struggling schools. Advocate that children in all schools are at the national average of proficiency in core academic subjects (i.e. reading, writing and mathematics). Choice & Charter SchoolsContinue supporting the existence of the Milwaukee Parental Choice Program (MPCP) and charter schools.Eliminate barriers to the creation of additional high-quality education options in Milwaukee (i.e. implicit or explicit enrollment caps on Choice and Charter schools).Eliminate MPS limits on the percentage of system schools that can be Charter schoolsAllow use of surplus MPS buildings for non-MPS educational options including high-performing Choice and independent Charter schoolsExpand the number of entities authorized to establish Charter schoolsIncrease funding for both Choice and Charter schools and reverse cuts on Choice schools that put them at risk. Work toward funding equity for all children in Milwaukee by increasing Choice and Charter per pupil funding levels to 80% of the MPS funding level. [The choice parents make as to which school to send their child to has a dramatic impact on state financial support for a child – with funding ranging from over $13,000 per child for a student in MPS to $7,700 per child in a charter school and only $6,400 in a Choice school.]Milwaukee Public SchoolsExplore a change in MPS governance, including the possibility of moving authority to the Milwaukee Mayor’s office.Reform MPS labor agreements to reduce legacy costs and increase the district’s long-term fiscal stability.Advocate that MPS achieve a graduation rate equal to the national average for similar sized districts.Clearly define what a “high-performing school“ is.Measure performance for all schools in the city. Hold schools accountable for their results, expanding high performers and reforming low performers.Create alternative certification routes for teachers and administrators to attract more high quality leaders and staff.Liquidate surplus MPS property and facilities to generate district revenue.OtherAdd REALTOR? or business leader to the MATC board (an important link to workforce training).Implement changes that were made to the State Workforce Training System at the local level, increasing dollars directed at training and creating stronger linkages between K-12 education, technical colleges and employers.Taxation (Approved by GMAR BOD 03/20/2013)The GMAR believes lowering property taxes in the Metropolitan Milwaukee market area is a significant public policy objective.The Association understands our state’s long history of relying on funding most municipal services through the property tax. However, over time, the property tax (essentially local governments’ sole means of raising revenue) has become a burden on homeowners’ ability to pay the tax and prospective home buyers’ ability to purchase a home in Southeastern Wisconsin.Furthermore, the GMAR believes property taxes place enough of a burden on prospective home buyers that it is a significant disincentive to purchase property.Lowering property taxes is not a simple or easy task, but the GMAR believes it can be achieved by maintaining a close watch over how and where government spends its resources, as well as funding municipal services via other revenue sources that are not dependent on property ownership are important dual objectives. The Association will support lawmakers and policymakers who seek more efficiency in government operations and back the exhaustive debate of reductions in government services, while also supporting the creation of different sources of revenue that do not place current or prospective homeowners in danger of losing housing choices.Residency (Approved by GMAR BOD 03/20/2013)The PPTF also discussed Governor Walker’s proposal of eliminate residency for all public employees. The TF separated the issue into two parts, a) the policy requiring employees to live within a political jurisdiction, and b) the impact eliminating residency would have on the market.Given the wide array of opinions among the GMAR’s membership on the merits of residency, the PPTF decided not to take a position in favor or against residency. However, regarding the market impact of the pending policy change, the TF felt it would not dramatically impact the marketplace at this time.Furthermore, given the improving real estate market and low levels of inventory, the market could absorb an increase in supply of homes.The TF was concerned about a “grass is greener” effect some public employees might feel after gaining their new rights. The TF’s would caution public employees to contact their REALTOR? and take a very close look at whether listing their home is the smart move financially, for each family and for their quality of life. The TF also wanted the Association to send a note out to the membership outlining the GMAR’s position, to prepare them to talk about it to clients or the media.The GMAR has requested assistance from NAR’s My REALTOR? Party effort to poll public employees in Milwaukee to determine their likelihood of exercising their new right, should it pass.Appendix B: 2018 GMAR Concerned REALTORS? PAC (CRPAC) Fundraising PlanGoal #1:To maximize donations from GMAR members for political purposesUtilize the fundraising network of the CRPAC TrusteesAppeal to members via newsletters, videos and in-office visitsLarge Donor CouncilConvert members who contribute outside the RPAC/DGExplore online CRPAC AuctionGoal #2:To support pro-REALTOR? candidates and elected officials in public officeEnsure that CRPAC is filled with competent Trustees, looking out for the Association and industry’s best interests.Appeal to members via newsletters, videos and in-office visitsGoal #3Raise $114,000 in 2018$57,000 dues donations$32,000 Director Giver$25,000 Large Donor Council (25 Donors) ................
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