Kaplan of LIBOR speaks at LICN's monthly meeting

WOODBURY NY The monthly meeting of the Long Island Commercial Network (LICN) took place at the On Parade Diner on May 26th. The meeting began with informal networking where new and existing members can meet and greet one another. It was another well-attended meeting. Ira Zucker opened the meeting with a summary by the committee chairmen updating the membership on the progress of their activities. Ed Smith reminded members of the June 26th class in West Babylon - "Selling Commercial & Investment Property," 7.5 hours of CE including 3.5 hours of fair house and is open to everyone. Visit the LIREALTOR.com website for registration and costs. LICN then welcomed a new member, Steven Manns of Here 2 Serve Realty Inc. of Amityville. Randy Kaplan of LIBOR, VP of legislative affairs, was introduced as the speaker of the day, who updated them on the state of the RPAC. He introduced his team, Maryann Horran ­government affairs coordinator and, Janniel Edwards ­ a new liaison. They reviewed the lawmakers who are friends of Realtors. They heard that most of the incumbent lawmakers are friendly and open to hearing the concerns of Realtors. Kaplan was quick to add that while there are some Realtor practice related issues under review, for the most part, the Realtor agenda in Albany is one that supports issues that are pro-­homeownership and protect real property owners. He discussed changes in how the RPAC financially supports candidates and incumbents. For residential Realtors, they were reminded that some towns, notably The Town of North Hempstead especially Westbury, and The Town of Oyster Bay, have laws governing door knocking. We were reminded that while the Town of Oyster Bay has a "Do Not Knock Law," it doesn't apply to Realtors unless there is a sign or sticker visible on the property prohibiting it. There are also efforts to reduce fines and provide education to Realtors in other jurisdictions. These laws really target other services sold door to door that may not be as respectful to home occupants as Realtors are. Nevertheless, almost everyone is subject to their local laws and should act responsibly to find out what the laws are and ensure compliance. Information can be found at www.lirealtor.com/government/current­issues and the NY State Realtor website www.nysar.com/. LICN reviewed the areas of RPAC's continuing effort on the main issues. Preserving section 1031 like-kind exchange, maintaining affordable terrorism insurance, encouraging foreign investment in commercial real estate and lease accounting. More information is available at the realtoractioncenter.com/rpac The meeting concluded with our popular "Haves & Wants" where the membership are offered the opportunity for a two­-minute advertisement to share the commercial property's they have available as well as what their clients are looking for. The LICN meets the last Tuesday of each month at the On Parade Diner from 8 -­10 a.m. Their next meeting will be June 23rd. A speaker has not been announced. Visit www.licommercialnetwork.org to join or learn about the benefits of membership in the organization.