Issue link: https://nebusinessmedia.uberflip.com/i/1225698
3 W W W. M E R E D A .O R G A s the volunteer president of the Maine Real Estate & Development Association (MEREDA), I am thrilled to invite you to learn more about MEREDA, as we celebrate our 35th Anniversary this year. This mile- stone is particularly poignant for me: I began my career in real estate law in 1985. In fact, I was present at the organizational meeting at which the founders of MEREDA first introduced the idea of creating a specific trade organization for the commercial real estate and development industries of Maine. Thirty-five years later, I find myself the president of this outstanding organization, and I continue to be impressed with all that MEREDA members do to promote responsible development in Maine. Our volunteer-driven association creates and supports the economic conditions vital to our state's success. MEREDA has developed a reputation for hosting thought-provok- ing and informed discussions on industry challenges, trends, and opportunities. Our Public Policy Committee has become a well-recognized and much-respected voice for fair and responsible development in Augusta. In the past year, MEREDA began addressing public policy issues on a more regional basis with the creation of the Local Issues Committee to monitor, address, and empower development at the local level. At every level, the real estate landscape in Maine has changed dramatically since 1985. Important downtown structures and historic mills are being renovated, spurring economic development; retail developments are evolving to meet the changing retail environment; real estate development is fueling growth and helping to attract the companies and people our state needs to compete nationally and globally. Real estate development is community development. More than ever, MEREDA plays a huge role in promoting our state, and creating an environment for communi- ties to succeed in responsible ways. On this 35th Anniversary of MEREDA's founding, I want to thank all of MEREDA's members and supporters, both past and present, for their engagement and involvement in help- ing Maine's communities to grow, respond to challenges, and to thrive. The President's Perspective 800.727.1941 | dwmlaw.com Drummond Woodsum congratulates MEREDA on 35 years of service! "MEREDA plays a huge role in promoting our state, creating an environment for communities to succeed in responsible ways." Gary Vogel, President