NAIOP's Chapter Leadership & Legislative Retreat is an annual conference held in Washington DC. The national staff hosts the event which is focused on preparing chapter officers for their role and responsibilities. In 2005, the Tampa Bay Chapter was represented by President Bill Martin of Hawkins Construction, President-Elect Robin Bishop of Bishop & Associates, and Membership Chairman Duane Milford of EMK Consultants.

From Saturday, February 12 through Monday, February 14, the NAIOP Tampa Bay Leaders participated in seminars and roundtable discussions on leadership, membership, programming, and government affairs. Conference speakers ranged from pollster Frank Luntz to Former House Majority Leader and talk show host, Dick Armey.

NAIOP Tampa Bay was recognized with a Chapter Merit Award for community service for constructing and supporting the Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Pavilion. The award was presented to Bill Martin, who has spearheaded the Chapter's effort for several years, during a gala dinner at the Mayflower Hotel.

The retreat was capped off on February 15 with visits to Capitol Hill. Besides meeting with key aides, the Chapter leaders met with three legislators who represent the Tampa Bay area in Washington - Katherine Harris, Adam Putnam, and Mike Bilirakis. NAIOP's key federal issues this year include:
Tenant Improvements Depreciation Extension
Internet Sales Tax
Terrorism Insurance Extension
ADA Notification
Endangered Species Act Update

  

Chapter Past President Gregory Morgan (at left) with Robin Bishop and Duane Milford outside the Capitol Building.

Morgan and Bishop with Chapter President Bill Martin (at right) under the dome of the Cannon House Office Building.

Congressman Adam Putnam (at left) represents Polk County and portions of Hillsborough.

Congressman Mike Bilirakis (second from right) represents portions of Polk, Pasco, and Hillsborough counties.