NAIOP Upstate N.Y. Chapter hosts annual industry event - Sept. 10

The National Association of Industrial and Office Properties' (NAIOP) Upstate New York Chapter hosted its annual clambake on Wednesday, September 10, bringing together the area's leaders in commercial real estate with state legislators. In attendance were Senator Joseph Robach, assemblyman Joseph Errigo, assemblyman Dennis Gabryszak and assemblyman Robin Schimminger. Each was asked to share his outlook on the state's fiscal condition. In his remarks, Senator Robach noted that balancing the budget must be a priority for each entity, and he foresees future development centering on the three priorities for Albany - technology, education and health care. Assemblyman Errigo emphasized the importance of sustainable development, and said that fuel cell research and development should be a main concern for Rochester, largely due to the area's energy companies and their research, noting that fuel cells are an important part of any national energy strategy. Assemblyman Gabryszak discussed fiscal responsibility and the need to control future spending - including consolidation of local government services. He emphasized that the state's $6.4 billion budget deficient is representative of too much government spending. Regarding spending, assemblyman Schimminger discussed a September letter from Governor Patterson that calls for state agencies and departments to submit budget proposals for next year with zero growth in spending.  NAIOP's Upstate New York chapter's clambake is a yearly, anticipated event that allows the region's commercial real estate leaders to gather in a social atmosphere and discuss the topics that deeply affect the industry, including reform legislation for industrial development, brownfields and wetlands. The chapter also travels to the state capitol annually. NAIOP's Upstate New York Chapter is comprised of approximately 80 members representing more than 60 companies and organizations. Chapter members are encouraged to participate on a legislative level by working with NAIOP to promote both local and national public policy that creates, protects and enhances property value. Additional detail regarding NAIOP is available at www.naiop.org, including legislative issues and commercial real estate industry information.