As the nation and our industry struggle with our current economic difficulties, I was left encouraged after my recent attendance at the MHI-NCC Winter Meeting in New Orleans. The meeting attendance was strong, drawing quality member attendees, and the amount of information, particularly regarding the financial challenges we see on the consumer and inventory side, was staggering. The Winter Meeting in New Orleans was yet another example of the opportunities the MHI-NCC makes available to community owners and members who are seeking ways to improve their bottom line.

The MHI-NCC meetings provide the inside scoop with the top players in the industry – if you want the latest and greatest, then you needed to be there!

While information and networking opportunities are a key benefit of NCC membership, public policy advocacy is also a priority for the NCC.

The MHI-NCC’s top priority is improving the availability of consumer financing for homes in communities, specifically through the implementation of reforms made to the FHA Title I (personal property loans), program. MHI has conducted regular conference calls, among a host of other efforts, with FHA, urging expedited implementation. The FHA staff has reported that within 30 days it will issue a Notice in the Federal Register announcing the new changes to the program, and that implementation will not require a lengthy, formal rulemaking process. This would have extended the implementation timetable many months into the future.

In the 111th Congress, the MHI-NCC will look to build upon the successes achieved in the most recent legislative cycle. Several key issues include seeking legislative relief from EPA’s onerous submetering policy; reforming the Section 8 Voucher program; and protecting our members from “carried interest” reform that would result in higher operating costs.

Finally, there are many pressing issues facing community owners, and we’re committed to protecting your interests. But we need to continue to grow in order to be successful. As a member, I encourage you to do business with members. In the coming weeks and months the MHI-NCC will be embarking on a sustained effort to increase our strength, our visibility. I ask you to do two things:

• When working with your suppliers and lenders, don’t hesitate to ask “Are you a member of the MHI-NCC?” If they are, you know they have dedicated support to improving our industry, and are truly committed to your business.

• As you come across non-members, ask them to join. It takes only a few seconds, but you have to ask. If they have additional questions about membership, point them to MHI-NCC staff at (703) 558-0678 standing ready to assist. Nothing ventured, nothing gained; increasing our membership starts with you.

Advancing our advocacy agenda and involvement and membership are interlocked. We need your support to improve and protect our industry.

You can email me at chris@parrishmanor.com I look forward to working with you over the coming year.

Chris Parrish
Chair, National Communities Council
Vice-President, Parrish Manor