I want to start off by saying thank you to our Past-President, Matt Lancia. Last year the we faced many challenges from the influx in material prices, nearly impossible to find products, and labor shortages, but Matt continued to guide and lead us to a successful year in the building industry. I also want to take a moment to remember our Building Commissioner, John Caywood. Not only was John a friend, but a true partner who always sought to hear us and work with us when new codes and protocols were implemented. The Executive Board has met with the Allen County Commissioners, and we are confident that they will find a replacement that will continue John’s legacy of commitment to the industry.
During my time on the Executive Board, we have seen many changes from roles within our own office to a global pandemic, a labor crisis, and material scarcity. All of these events would be enough on their own to cause any industry to fail; but because of the strength and partnership of our HBA members and the community in which we live, we have been able to overcome some of the most uncertain of times. I want to thank each and every member for the advice and teamwork we all have had to seek, in order to make it to where we are now. I am so proud to say, that because of that hard work, Allen County has achieved over $2 billion in overall building permit construction value in 2021, and residential construction contributed to almost half of that at a record shattering $869 million. I, for one, believe that we will continue to rise in 2022.
Throughout my six years on the Board and 18 years in the industry, I’ve been able to build relationships with many of you, but I look forward to taking the opportunity as president to not only make connections with those I have yet to meet, but also collaborate with my fellow Board of Directors. I am excited and honored to be part of this Association and the representation we have this year.
I hope to see you all at our HBA Inaugural Celebration on January 21st, and I look forward to seeing what 2022 will bring to us and our community.
Luke Hoffman, HBA President