In September, Manufactured Home Owners of America (MHOAA) held their annual convention in Rosemont, Illinois. Delegates and representatives from approximately 15 states attended along with guest speakers from Washington, D.C. MHOAI worked with our national organization to put together an agenda to help state delegates understand what needs to be done at their state level and to inform them of issues that can be applied as federal legislation.
Guest speakers included Elizabeth Cocke, Deputy Administrator, Office of Manufactured Housing Programs (HUD), and Andy Kochera, Senior Policy Advisor for AARP.
Cocke explained how state organizations, such as MHOAI, can work with homeowners and government to become more involved with the decision-making process on the federal level where laws impact local homeowners. She also discussed the 2000 Manufactured Home Improvement Act.
Kochera explained how grass-root organizations such as MMHOA and MHOAI can affect decisions. He explained that homeowners can become more involved by writing letters and attending committee meetings.
Pat Metz, Section Chief for the Illinois Department of Public Health, spoke to delegates about the progress achieved in the State of Illinois. Metz explained how working with MHOAI and its membership secured new laws for the installation and set-up of homes. He gave an overview of the Quality Review Board that is comprised of homeowners, landlords, installers, and dealers who discuss their concerns regarding issues in Illinois, and the Service Administrative Agency. Metz explained how his department works with MHOAI to help enforce existing laws.
Deane Sargent of PMC Financial Services, a California-based organization, gave an explanation of the history of his organization and how it can help homeowners buy their communities. Sargent has worked with many communities in several states to show that land ownership (co-op), is a proven method of solving issues such as high rent. PMC Financial Services provides services and other resources to help homeowners become a resident-owned community. For more information about PMC Financial Services look in our Links page.
State delegates talked about the importance of getting more homeowners in their states to be involved and to support their state association. MHOAI's track record of success proves an active, growing membership makes a difference at both the state and local levels.
Delegates also discussed and shared information regarding laws passed in their state, as well as laws needed in their state. A great deal of material was exchanged, including the Landlord and Tenants Act, by states that have them. Discussions included high rent issues, first right of refusal, the quality of new homes, leases, and relocation laws. There are only about 15 states that have a state organization, it is vital that we stand together, share information, and lobby for federal changes that can be positively passed on to each state. MHOAA has membership in 28 states.
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