Opinion: Thank You Mr. Chairman

Over the years, I have had the great pleasure of working with the Association’s chief elected officers (20 and still counting), whose title is Chairman of the Board.

This past year, I was fortunate to work closely with Greg Brown of B.R. Williams Trucking, who recently completed his term as ATA’s Chairman. He is, in fact, one of the most dedicated, talented, and hardest working individuals I have ever met.

Because of his dedication and service, the Alabama Trucking Association continues to be recognized as one of the state’s most influential trade organizations. Through his actions, this state trucking association and the trucking industry grew in stature and distinction.

Here are just a few of his many accomplishments as ATA’s Chairman of Board for year 2015-16:

• As of January 1, 2016, property taxes on new truck purchases were reduced to reflect a tax base that better reflects the vehicle’s fair market value as opposed to the exorbitant manufacturers’ suggested retail price (MSRP). The change came from the result of a lawsuit filed by ATA. Alabama motor carriers should realize a significant tax reduction on newly purchased vehicles.
• Alabama now has one of the nation’s strongest cargo theft bills which defines the act of cargo theft, including fifth wheel tampering, and increases fines and penalties for the theft of cargo.
• All ATA major events were well financed and attended. Sponsorships for the ATA Golf Classic and the Annual Convention exceeded expectations topping receipts in prior years.
• $288,667 was raised benefitting ATA’s political action arm – TRUK PAC for the support of pro-truck candidates in upcoming elections.
• As many as 21 Alabama motor carrier companies have trained their drivers to help combat domestic sex trafficking. ATA is a Silver Sponsor of Truckers Against Trafficking.
• Alabama’s safest motor carrier fleets and safety and maintenance professionals have been recognized, promoting the Alabama trucking industry’s commitment to highway safety.
• ATA was a primary contributor towards the legislative effort to increase revenue for the state’s highway infrastructure. Though the initiative did not pass during the 2016 legislative session, the attempt provides significant impetus for future highway funding discussions.
• The Alabama Trucking Association remains one of the state’s most persuasive proponents of highway safety, thereby helping to reduce highway crashes and fatalities.
• The Alabama Trucking Association is grateful for Mr. Brown’s leadership, and we look forward to his continued counsel as our new Chairman, Gary Bond, moves this association and the trucking industry forward.

On a personal note, it’s been an honor to have worked with you this past year. Because of leaders like you, I’m convinced I have the best job in the world.