The Dawn of a New Year

January is the dawning of a new year.  Since the Texas Legislature is not scheduled to meet until 2009, this year offers us many opportunities for developing goals, building a legislative foundation and planning for the future.  Looking back at the past year gives us some ideas of where we need to concentrate our efforts in the coming months.

As the newly elected President, it is an honor and privilege to be chosen to lead our association.  I look forward to the challenges of the future but know that these challenges can only be met by the entire membership of PBT working together.

I want to set lofty goals for our Association for the upcoming year. However, I'm mindful that a concerted effort by the entire PBT membership will be needed to attain these goals.  Together we can strive to promote a higher degree of respect, integrity and professionalism.  A positive outcome of our goals will be achieved if there is a plan with clarity and continuity.  As an organization, we must address the welfare of every bondsman in Texas whether in a bail bond board county or a non-bail bond board county.

Therefore, I would like to propose the following goals:

• Assist PBT members to have a stronger presence in their communities, state and national organizations.

• Increase our membership to 500 members in 2008. 

• Provide a plan for our members to build a stronger foundation with our State Legislators.

• Work closely with the Legislative Committee to formulate a plan for the next legislative session by enlisting our membership to bring in outside stakeholders that will communicate our views and polices to the legislature.

• Develop a plan to help make our PAC stronger which will enable the PBT to be greater force in Austin .

• Encourage greater participation from our membership on current issues though open forums and communication.

• To have an action plan that expedites items that are voted on in both the Board of Directors meetings as well as the General Membership meetings.  To act on these items immediately and demonstrate a proactive plan to achieve a positive and conclusive outcome.

PBT has made great strides in the past 10 years.  Past leadership as built a wonderful foundation and with enthusiasm, dedication and hard work, our current officers, directors and members shall carry the PBT to even higher levels of professionalism and achievements.

Thank you,
John McCluskey
PBT President