Stepping into Dr. Bob Buckman’s role as NAHC president is a daunting task. While his organizational leadership will be missed, I am comforted by the fact that his friendship remains. As a good friend, I know he will help keep me on the right path for our organization, and for the Naperville area, moving forward.
The goal for my presidency is simple – to keep the Naperville Area Homeowners Confederation a vital and constructive member of our community. Where appropriate, our voice will be heard, but public statements and stands should not define what the Confederation is all about. Rather, our strength is in serving as a forum and venue for discussion of issues, providing community education on topics that can impact our homes and neighborhoods, and serving as a rallying point for neighbors to join together for the good of us all. While we will not be afraid to take a stand, we are much more valuable as counselors, teachers, and subject matter experts who can establish the basis for understanding and fact-based response.
While the Confederation as a whole does not meet during the summer months, our Board is busy setting the stage for what we will do beginning in September. VP Mike Reilly is leading efforts to establish our meeting calendar for the next year. Our “executive team” of Mike, Dr. Bob, and I regularly meet with City Manager Doug Krieger to better understand what is happening and how we can help. We also stay involved on Boards, Commissions, and ad hoc committees, making sure that in addition to living here, we also actively get involved in how decisions are made.
The Confederation is not just about a handful of officers and board members, though. It is about our entire community. Reach out and get involved, because we are neighbors helping neighbors!