COVID-19: EVP Member Update

CAA Members,

As we enter the fourth week of the Governor’s “Stay at Home” order, I want to assure you that CAA staff, board of directors and volunteer leaders are engaged and committed to serving our membership and representing your interests as we all strive to adjust to the circumstances presented by COVID-19. Staff is in close contact with our government leaders to address the economic and public policy challenges facing both apartment owners and residents impacted by the pandemic. While CAA members are working in cooperation with residents to help keep them in their homes, we’re pushing back on misguided and opportunistic calls for rent strikes, freezes and moratoriums. Our SHAPE Illinois campaign continues to argue the dangers of rent control.

The economic relief provided by Congress has been substantial but more needs to be done. Participate in NAA’s legislative Call-to-Action to help us advocate for emergency rental assistance, greater access to mortgage forbearance, and expanded coverage of the SBA Paycheck Protection Program. We surveyed members to measure the COVID-19 impact on rent payments and resident and owner requests for relief, the results of which will help inform state and local leaders on how best to assist our industry. Look for another survey in May.

We are very proud of the heroic work apartment managers, maintenance, doormen, security, leasing agents, suppliers and others are performing during this crisis, and we want our industry to receive the recognition it deserves. Email info@caapts.org to let us know how you are going the extra mile to work with impacted residents; tell us about that special apartment employee providing extraordinary service; how residents responded to your team's hard-work and care; and how residents have come together to support one another. Join the CAA COVID-19 Facebook Group to share thoughts, connect, and engage with colleagues.

With social distancing expected to be practiced for some time to come, staff is working to adjust and reschedule association events, programs and educations sessions, and transitioning meetings to online formats. As described further in this newsletter, our Trade Show & Education Conference (TSEC) has been rescheduled for Tuesday, September 29th, and we’re offering a series of valuable webinars in lieu of in-person classes.

On behalf of the CAA staff and leadership, we are prouder than ever to represent the apartment community. Thank you for your continued support and let us know what we can do to help during this challenging time. Remember to check the COVID-19 resources page on our website frequently for valuable information and updates.

Michael J. Mini
Executive Vice President