NAIOP SoCal Expands Public Policy Advocacy Platform

NAIOP SoCal is expanding its public policy advocacy platform this year to ensure than commercial real estate players have a seat at the table when discussing legislative changes that could impact the industry. The move is a top priority for the organization this year.

“A top priority of NAIOP SoCal is to strengthen our public policy advocacy to leverage our powerful network of 500 companies to protect the interests of commercial real estate,” Tim Jemal, CEO of NAIOP SoCal, tells GlobeSt.com. “’Elected officials, particularly at the local and state levels, need to be better educated on the value and contributions of commercial real estate to the regional economy and jobs.”

It isn’t surprising that Jemal wants the industry to be more involved in public policy. Commercial real estate plays an active role in the local and regional economics. “In L.A. and Orange counties, the commercial real estate industry is a major contributor to the economy with over 7,000 firms supporting more than 130,000 jobs and generating over $5.6 billion dollars in salaries and wages. There are too many local and state policies under consideration without an understanding of the impact on employment and economic growth,” says Jemal.

The expansion of the platform is focused on building communication channels with policy markers through the organization. “NAIOP SoCal will build bridges with policy-makers and thought leaders who need to understand the substantial value commercial real estate provides in creating jobs and generating GDP for the region,” says Jemal.

While public policy advocacy is at the top of the agenda for this year, it isn’t NAIOP’s only focus. The firm has also announced its commitment to diversity and inclusion, with plans to expand its internal task force. Foundationally, the organization is always looking for ways to support members through education, updates and opportunities to network even during this challenging time. “NAIOP SoCal is focused on providing value to its members in innovative ways despite stay-at-home orders and restrictions on in-person gatherings,” says Jemal. “We have sharpened our virtual programming to focus beyond simply surviving to growing, adapting and innovating. We do expect a return to in-person events in June and plan to have our iconic Night at the Fights Gala in the Fall of 2021.”