The Chicago Association of REALTORS® proudly presented our 138th Annual Inaugural Gala on Friday, September 24. During the festivities, we debuted our 2021-2022 Board of Directors and honored several members for their contributions throughout the year, including the recipient of the Brian A. Bernardoni Public Policy Award: Legislator of the Year.
The Brian A. Bernardoni Legislator of the Year Award is given to an elected official who recognizes the importance of private property rights and has demonstrated a keen understanding of real estate matters, not only as a matter of policy, but how policy affects the day-to-day practitioner. Moreover, the elected official shows they are willing to listen to the advocacy efforts of the Chicago Association of REALTORS®, as we are The Voice for Real Estate in Chicago.
Brian A. Bernardoni Public Policy Award: Legislator of the Year: Illinois House of Representatives Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch
Illinois House of Representatives Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch has had a longstanding relationship with the REALTOR® community since he began his career as a state representative in the Illinois General Assembly in 2013. This past April, when House Bill 116 (known as The Rent Control Preemption Act) was considered by the House of Representatives, Speaker Welch was instrumental in ensuring the bill did not move forward. Speaker Welch continues to actively listen to our real estate advocates who provide personal insight on the implications bills will have on our neighborhoods and communities. He’s amplified our stories with his fellow lawmakers, ensuring the REALTOR® voice is heard throughout the Capitol.