Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner presents a proclamation honoring Illinois REALTORS® on its 100th anniversary. The meeting was held as part of the association’s annual Lobby Day and Capitol Conference on April 5, 2016. In addition to Gov. Rauner, pictured are Illinois REALTORS® President Mike Drews, CEO Gary Clayton and President-elect Doug Carpenter.

Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner presented Illinois REALTORS® leadership with a proclamation honoring the association’s century of service. The document also declares April 25, 2016 as Illinois REALTORS® Day in the state.

In remarks at the meeting, Rauner praised the impact the association and its members have had on the real estate profession. Founded in 1916, Illinois REALTORS® was largely responsible for pushing for a statewide License Law as a means to boost professionalism in the state.

The proclamation noted the association’s work safeguarding the industry, providing disaster assistance and partnering on restoration work for the Executive mansion project in Springfield.

Gov. Bruce Rauner poses with Illinois REALTORS® representatives at a meeting at the Illinois Capitol on April 5, 2016. L-R are: Illinois REALTOR® Assistant Director for Legislative and Political Affairs Julie Sullivan, Treasurer Matt Difanis, President-elect Doug Carpenter, President Mike Drews, Gov. Rauner, CEO Gary Clayton, Immediate Past President Jim Kinney and Director of Government Affairs Greg St. Aubin.

The meeting was part of a day of visits by Illinois REALTORS® to the Capitol in Springfield. Association leaders also met with Senate President John Cullerton, House Majority Leader Barbara Currie, and House Republican Leader Jim Durkin.

In the meeting with Rauner, association leaders discussed the state’s economy and its impact on housing and the need for addressing high property taxes.