The Carolinas Associated General Contractors (CAGC) has issued an appeal for its members to contribute to its Political Action Committee (PAC) by years’ end.
The most recent CAGC PAC filings (for second quarter 2015) show a balance of $40,801.29 at the end of the June 30, 2015 filing period, with $10,300 in contributions in the quarter. The filings reveal several contributions from a variety of individuals, ranging from $100 to the largest contribution of $6,000 in three donations from Kevin G. Burns of Statesville, NC. (Burns is president of R.E. Burns & Sons Co., Inc.)
“Today we learned that one more legislator has declared they are NOT running for re-election in 2016,” the CAGC announcement said. “Rep. Tricia Cotham, a Democrat representing Mecklenburg County, is the latest to make this announcement adding to the growing list that currently stands at 19. This number represents 10 percent of legislative seats that will be occupied by brand new, freshmen legislators for 2017 and that list may continue to grow as we approach the candidate filing deadline of Dec. 21.
“CAGC needs your PAC donation now, before the end of the year, so that we can show a strong balance in our PAC account on the fourth quarter filing report. Legislators and candidates review these reports to determine the strength of our industry’s influence. Given the size of the construction industry, we need to be near the top.
“Your contribution allows Carolinas AGC NC PAC, to help elect and re-elect candidates that are not only supportive of but are willing to champion our issues. But, just as important, your contribution will enable us to donate to our friends who are looking to secure leadership positions in their respective chambers and we have several opportunities here with many leadership posts being vacated. Having friends in high places is the most effective way for our industry to have influence over policies that affect your business.
“While we as your lobbyists continue to push for increased investment in infrastructure, policies that support a friendly business climate, and opportunities to address the workforce shortage in our industry, PAC contributions help us get our foot in the door to make our case for you.
“This is an extremely important election cycle. All legislative seats, Council of State and the Governor’s race are on the ballot. Other PACs will increase their fundraising efforts so we will need to raise more just to stay in the game. An additional $25,000 by the end of this year will put us on track to gain sufficient political influence in a very crowded election campaign season.”