HBAR members come in all walks of life.  The common interests that bring us together to support HBAR are the need for a healthy building environment, professional development, and community engagement.  I am confident that with HBAR’s strong membership foundation and history that 2013 will bring growth to our Association and our industry. In order to continue to grow and maintain our ranking as one of the top local home building associations, it is critical to have the support and commitment of every member to participate, recruit new members and advocate for our industry and our Association

HBAR members and staff spend a large amount of time, resources, and manpower on local government policies and regulations that directly affect the ability to build homes.  Legislative victories that we’ve enjoyed on both the Local and State levels over the last 66 years are a testament to our industry’s will and determination to come together. With less staff and fewer resources in recent years, we’ve been able to more effectively advocate change than ever before.  This is a testament to the HBAR leaders and visionaries that have come before me and put HBAR in a strong position to succeed.

2013 will bring new challenges to our industry and Association to overcome.  I’m confident that our membership is more resilient today than ever before and will be even stronger by the end of 2013.  I have 2 major goals for 2013:

1. Make HBAR members voices heard to local government officials and regulators.
2. Grow our Membership

Please participate: come to an educational or networking event, join a council or committee, or show up to a local government meeting.     When your membership comes up for renewal this year, please continue to be a part of HBAR – we need every member now more than ever!    I challenge each of you to recruit at least one new member in 2013, and remember to “Do Business with a Member”.

HBAR’s primary emphasis is service to its members.  As a part of HBAR, you have a voice and can help shape our association and local building environment by getting involved.  Let your voice be heard.    I want every member to feel that they are getting as much if not more out of being part of HBAR then what they are putting in.

I am honored to serve you and the Richmond building industry in 2013.

Robert Carter

President 2013