Despite the downturn in the area's construction industry, the members of the Gulf Coast Builders Exchange (GCBX) are optimistic for the future due in part to the passion and political savvy that Mary Dougherty-Slapp brings to the executive director's position. The trade association is the sole voice of the commercial construction industry as the 300 members navigate laws and regulations that affect their business and their ability to remain in business. The new $134 million Riverview High School (where her WCW photos were taken) is an example of projects by GCBX members.
Mary describes the Exchange as “the premier regional organization for commercial contractors. The core values of networking, advocacy, education, and philanthropy guide the organization. While we recently re-branded our logo to project a more vibrant and cutting-edge image, our mission and slogan Building Better Together did not change.” Since 1952, the Gulf Coast Builders Exchange has served contractors in Sarasota, Manatee, and DeSoto counties, and recently added Charlotte County.
Regarding the downturn in construction, Mary says, “There isn't enough work right now, forcing contractors to reevaluate their business model and perhaps change how they've been operating their business. I believe those who survive the downturn will be healthier and stronger. The GCBX lost some members, but the membership number of 300 has remained steady and doesn't fluctuate with the ups and downs of the economy. Now more than ever, the members need an advocacy organization.”
A major function of Mary's position is governmental affairs-cultivating and nurturing relationships with local, state, and federal officials. “We have wonderful leaders at all levels. Their doors are always open, they return phone calls, and there is a great spirit of cooperation. Local governments are working together as never before. Trust is crucial in advocacy and lobbying. The elected officials know that I will be honest with them about issues that affect the members that I represent.”
During the 2009 legislative session, Mary arranged a meeting in Tallahassee with the Florida Department of Transportation secretary that focused on finding funds to connect N. Cattlemen Road from Fruitville Road to University Parkway—the key to the development of the 400-acre Nathan Benderson Park behind University Town Center. The good news is that federal stimulus dollars are a good possibility for funding the project in the near future.
Another legislative priority was the passage of the controversial Senate Bill 360, a growth management law that removes state-mandated requirements regarding infrastructure concurrent with new development with the expectation that the bill will jump-start the local construction economy.
Mary says she has a “genetic propensity” to lobbying since she grew up in a family heavily involved in New York politics. During previous positions as executive vice president of the Home Builders Association of Manatee County and deputy county manager of DeSoto County, Mary honed her skills at relationship-building. “I identify the needs, concerns, and issues of others and then strategically work to the desired outcome. I research issues to get up to speed and identify people to be my resources. I tend to be patient and will educate others until it's time to just get the job done. I'm pleased that our government leaders get it.”
While she works with many elected officials, Mary says, “I have never seen a harder working legislator than Vern Buchanan,’ and adds, “ For the first time in 30 years we have a member on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure to bring more federal transportation dollars not only to Florida, but more importantly to the Sarasota-Manatee area—dollars that are critical for the continued growth and vibrancy of our area.”
According to GCBX Board chair, Jeff Charlotte, President and CEO of a commercial general contractor and construction management firm bearing his name,“Mary has the skill set to facilitate what we're trying to do by gaining access to legislators and other officials through her understanding of the political process. She's a warm, fresh, and approachable face that opens doors not only to supportive officials, but also to those who may not agree with our position.”
“I think I'm successful in what I do because I have a sincere interest in the needs of other people. I listen and strive for strategic solutions to issues. I also like to see other people shine, be successful, and be out front,” Mary says. “I love what I do, I love the process, and I love making people's lives better.” What is most rewarding about her job? Mary says, “It's realizing a success that makes a difference in our members' businesses that are the bread-and-butter of our community. People tend to forget about the domino effect—when our members have work, their employees return dollars to the local economy in stores, restaurants, and the purchase of goods and services.”
Commercial contracting is a male-dominated industry as is the GCBX. The current Board of Directors is all male and the 43 past chairs depicted in drawings lining the reception area of the Lakewood Ranch office are all males. Mary says she is often the only female in the room. However, the GCBX office is family-friendly—the only other employee brings her six month old son to the office several days a week.
Mary's advice to women is curt and to the point. “For some reason, women tend to undervalue themselves. I tell women not to think about a job that needs to be done. Just do better research and get the job done better than anyone else.”
All leaders have their supporters and Mary's include her family, friends, and the Board for whom she works. Her husband Jeff is a Sarasota County deputy, son Shaun is in the Honors College at the University of Central Florida, and daughter Shannon is attending a professional make-up artist school in Orlando.
Despite her long days that begin at 5 a.m. and frequently last into the evening, Mary admits, “I am territorial about my weekends. I work in the yard, kayak, run with my lab, Angel, read non-fiction—history and policies in particular. I live on four lots, so my environmental side is evident. I compost, have a rain barrel, and an organic garden. It may seem ironic that I was recognized as the Volunteer of the Year by the Sarasota Conservation Foundation for assisting in securing legislative appropriation for the four-acre Bay Preserve at Osprey public park.”
What makes Mary tick? “I'm passionate about fairness and making a difference. Why are we on this journey if we don't leave an imprint? So much can happen if we don't worry about who gets the credit.”
