The core mission of the chapter is to provide the foundation for continued commercial real estate development along the Gulf Coast in Alabama, Louisiana and Mississippi. Part of this mission includes effective advocacy at each level of government to ensure public policies are enacted to support the industry’s growth. 

The chapter took the first step towards this objective with members visiting the Louisiana state capitol for the chapter’s initial introduction to state lawmakers.  The day’s activities included a stakeholder policy meeting, hosted by the Louisiana Business and Industry (LABI) association for their Emerging Leaders Council, with Secretary Glenn Ledet for the state’s Department of Transportation and Development. NAIOP Gulf Coast was also recognized on the House floor by Representative Stephanie Hilferty, a commercial real estate agent and candidate for the state Public Service Commission. The day concluded with a Bayou State Connect reception, cohosted by NAIOP Gulf Coast, LABI, Greater New Orleans Regional Economic Development Inc and other organizations.

Initial legislative priorities discussed for the chapter included permit reform, transportation and infrastructure, workforce development, sustainable electricity and transmission, and state competitiveness in attracting and retaining private sector investments and businesses.