From the President (January 2025)

The start of a new year is traditionally a time to look back on the past year and look ahead to what lies in store in the months to come. In 2024, the BDC maintained its momentum as it continues to build back from the disruptions of the pandemic. Key accomplishments include:

• Attracting new members as we grow towards our goal of 40 associations

• Taking a position on the rezoning discussions for data centers

• Revising our Bylaws to more accurately represent the reality of how we do business

• Conducting a successful audit of our books and developing Standard Operating Procedures for treasurer functions (Barbara Smith)

• Clarifying the approval of minutes process (Susan DiMaina)

• Reapplying for tax-exempt status from the IRS to confirm our status (decision pending)

• Writing a letter to Congressman Connolly on the impact of the Corporate Transparency Act (see below for more information on the CTA)

• Co-sponsoring the annual Legislative Review in April, 2024

• Co-sponsoring the 2024 Best of Braddock Award ceremony in December

• Increasing the number of associations starting their own “Senior Outreach” programs (Marie Norman)

• Introducing the “Braddock Storytellers” feature to complement other Aging in Place programs (Paul Hartwell)

• Improving our strategic communications process (Charlotte Hannagan)

Regarding the CTA: we filed our report on 2 December, 2024, based on the statutory reporting requirement as it existed as of that date. While we believed that had some grounds not to report as a tax-exempt organization, since our status with the IRS was not officially determined, we went ahead and filed. Two days later, a Federal judge in Texas ruled that the CTA was unconstitutional and issued an injunction that halted the reporting requirement. Subsequently, the requirement was reinstated! During 2024, we advised member associations to seek legal counsel on this issue. There are other lawsuits against the CTA so it is possible that this matter will eventually reach the Supreme Court for resolution. Again, I would urge members to see legal counsel. We will keep you apprised of further news on the CTA.

Looking ahead to the second half of our 2024-2025 operating year, regular meetings are scheduled for 15 January (with speakers from the Northern Virginia Soil & Water Conservation District), 19 March (presentation TBD), and 18 June (election of officers). The annual Legislative Review will take place at a date to be determined, probably in April.

I would like to thank all our member associations and the hard-working members of the Executive Committee for making 2024 a successful year for the Braddock District Council. I look forward to seeing you at our meetings and events in 2025. Happy New Year!!

Bob Cosgriff

President, BDC