Strong (and multiple) relationships between an industry and elected leaders are more than just a nice idea – they are imperative for creating legislative success! As such, regular effort is dedicated to help expand the connections legislators have with credit unions in this state. Here is a recent example of how this happens, and how it helps the industry (in addition to all the visits with members of Congress this week):
On Monday, September 10th leaders from North Georgia CU attended the in-district fundraiser for state Representative Alan Powell (R-Hartwell). The credit union has consistently engaged with Rep. Powell’s event over the past several years, connecting an existing key contact relationship at the fundraisers to emphasize the credit union presence in his district and demonstrate support. Rep. Powell is one of the chairmen in the House and serves on three committees that tackle issues for credit unions regularly: Rules, Regulated Industries, and Motor Vehicles (any bill that touches auto lending often comes through this committee). At the event other area legislators engaged North Georgia CU as CEO Brian Akin and his team have made a consistent effort to build relationships. Thank you to North Georgia CU and their board for having a strong connection with not just Rep. Powell, but with all their area legislators. There are credit unions in all corners of the state that have similar connections, which helps place a personal face on the industry to those elected officials, and if you haven’t built these relationships yet, we encourage you to reach out to your legislators today!
