Louisiana REALTORS® Uphold Public Official Independence

The Northwest Louisiana Association of REALTORS® recently asserted its leadership to uphold the independence of a key regional planning official, in accordance with the law.

The new Shreveport/Caddo Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) provides planning and zoning services for the City of Shreveport and the Parish of Caddo. The commission’s decisions impact growth, development and real estate values in the metro area.

The MPC’s executive director role is crucial to the commission and the community, and so a number of local political figures attempted to assert and expand their power by naming the new executive director.

However, under the law, it is the responsibility of the MPB board to appoint the new director: The Northwest Louisiana Association of REALTORS® wrote a public letter offering its professional resources and expressing confidence in the board’s autonomy.

Highlighting the difference between politics and advocacy, the association advocated for a fair legal process—not a particular candidate.

In the end, the MPC board autonomously appointed a new executive director, Mark Sweeney. He began work October 1.

The Northwest Louisiana Association of REALTORS® is one of the oldest real estate associations in the country. It uses its vast experience to advocate for changes that positively impact local government and homeowners.