On May 10, 2023, the Sierra Chapter joined over 80 ACEC members from around the state for our 2023 Legislative Visit Day. This was our first “in person” event since 2019 and is our annual occasion to meet with our legislators and their staff to explain our views on various issues that impact our industry. In my opinion, this is one of the most important activities for ACEC since it provides direct access to the people that have such impact on our businesses. It is also a great opportunity to remind legislators how important the engineering and surveying industry is to the daily lives of every Californian. This year’s event was another excellent experience!
The day kicked off with breakfast at the Elks Tower and some key presentations from Senator Lena Gonzalez (ACEC’s Legislator of the Year) and Caltrans Director Tony Tavares. Tyler Munzing (ACEC’s Director of Government Affairs) then briefed the group on our plans for the day, our talking points, and what to expect at the Swing Space (the legislatures temporary working area while the Capitol is under renovation). Senator Brian Jones thanked ACEC for our efforts over the years and helped make a special presentation to long time member Roger Ball, with Rick Engineering, who is retiring after many years of service to our organization. After lunch we all headed over to the Swing Space with a quick photo stop at the Capitol (photo, previous page).
Special shout out to the following Sierra Chapter members who spent the afternoon meeting with Assembly and Senate members (or their staff): Chad Coleman, Luciana Cunha, Joy Denny, Dan Forgey, Rosa Griggs, Kevin Gustorf, Lincoln Leaman, Scott Lillibridge, Bob Lokteff, Erin McPherson, Marco Palilla, Dana Remington and Katie Wrightson. We had a great mix of veterans and first timers as well as the largest contingent of any Chapter! I could not have been prouder of our group and their efforts on Leg Visit Day. Another special thank you to Rosa Griggs who worked closely with me this year to better understand the Leg Visit Day logistics and overall planning process. Below is an assortment of photos taken during Sierra Chapter legislative meetings
After the legislative meetings, everyone met back up at the Elks Tower for a friendly reception that included legislators and their staff. Next page is a photo of Sierra Chapter members talking with Assembly member Josh Hoover (center). Josh represents the 7th District which encompasses Rancho Cordova, Folsom and Citrus Heights.
Thanks again to all the Sierra Chapter members who made this another awesome event!
