National Pest Management Association Board of Directors Meeting Renaissance Mayflower Hotel Washington, DC March 13, 2011 MINUTES

Transcription

1 National Pest Management Association Board of Directors Meeting Renaissance Mayflower Hotel Washington, DC March 13, 2011 MINUTES I. Call to Order President Kevin Kordek called the meeting to order at 12 Noon. In addition to the President, the following individuals were in attendance: Ray Johnson (President- Elect), Laura Simpson (Treasurer), Kevin Pass (Secretary), Raleigh Jenkins (Immediate Past President), Rob Lederer (Executive Vice President), Tim Baietto (At- Large Member), Rick Bell (At- Large Member), Tim Brock (Associate Director), Sheri Spencer (At- Large Member), Lee Whitmore (Associate Director), Phil Cooper (At- Large Member), Dennis Jenkins (At- Large Member), Mark O Hara (At- Large Member), Craig Thomas (At- Large Member), Alfie Treleven (At- Large Member), Joe Wilson (At- Large Member), Don Jamison (Region 2 Director), Bert Putterman (Region 4 Director), and Dan Carrothers (Supplier Representative). Joe Pestana, Todd Sawyer, Normand Doiron, Steve Scherzinger, and Karen Furgiuele- Percy were not in attendance. It was determined that a quorum was present. Past presidents Donny Blake, Bob Kunst, Bobby Jenkins, Judy Dold, Norman Cooper, Bruce Carter, Ward Combs, Larry Treleven, and Bernie Holst were in attendance. President Kordek welcomed Tim Baietto and Dan Carrothers to the Board and welcomed all guests and staff in attendance. II. President s Report President Kordek thanked all volunteers and staff involved in NPMA s committees for their work on behalf of the industry. He also recognized those who supported the development of the new Best Management Practices for Bed Bugs for the extensive and important work they completed in an extraordinarily quick manner. III. Headquarters Report Rob Lederer introduced Jim Fredericks, NPMA s new Technical Director. He announced that Andy Architect had assumed many of the responsibilities associated with NPMA s Membership Department and introduced Justin Gomes as the new Resource Center Manager. He shared that Andy Architect and Megan McCluskey would be getting married on May 6 th. IV. Approval of Minutes After review, a motion was made, seconded, and unanimously approved to accept the Minutes of the October 23, 2010 Board Meeting as presented. 1

2 V. Financial Report Treasurer Simpson presented the audit for year which showed a year- end surplus of $95K. She highlighted this was the 14 th year of positive surpluses for the Association. A motion was made, seconded, and unanimously approved to accept the audit for the year ending June 30, 2010 as presented. Mrs. Simpson then reviewed financial activity for the first seven months of the year, noting membership dues were ahead of budget by $25K and that approximately $25K would be saved in the Administration expenses due to staff transitions and temporary vacancies in positions. She indicated PestWorld 2010 was down from original projections by approximately $140K but that shortfall was being offset by new revenue opportunities such as the Denver Bed Bug Forum and 16 new bed bug workshops expected to net $2K a piece. Accordingly, the Conference Department revenue was expected to exceed budget by $93K. She indicated confidence in the financial health of the organization for the current fiscal year. VI. Bed Bug Blue Ribbon Task Force and Bed Bug Activity Report Mr. Lederer addressed the incredible work done by the Bed Bug Blue Ribbon Task Force and staff in addressing the myriad of issues associated with the industry s bed bug response plan. He indicated the actions taken on this issue were shining examples of the power of what an association can accomplish through collective, collaborative interaction. Bed Bug Blue Ribbon Task Force Report Staff provided a brief history of NPMA s work on bed bugs over the past several years culminating with a narrative on the formation of the Bed Bug Blue Ribbon Task Force. They then reviewed the Best Management Practices (BMPs) for Bed Bugs and noted that the document outlines the parameters in which good service for bed bugs exists. Staff indicated that the BMPs are expected to grow and evolve over time. A look at the various initiatives that had been undertaken to promote the BMPs both within the industry and externally to consumers was shared with the Board. Staff presented White Papers on bed bug related policies developed by the Task Force s Public Policy Work Group and approved by the Task Force as a whole. The presented papers included recommendations on government funded research, landlord/tenant/pco responsibility guidelines, establishment of bed bug advisory groups, registering new products, and including bed bugs in the legal definition of vermin pests. A motion was made, seconded, and unanimously approved to accept the White Papers presented by the Blue Ribbon Task Force. Bed Bug Legislation Staff announced the introduction of new Congressional Bill entitled the Bed Bug Management and Prevention Research Act of 2011, authored by Representative Jean Schmidt (R- OH). Staff indicated this was a well- written piece of legislation and members would be encouraged to seek co- sponsors for it during their Hill visits. It was noted the Bill provides funding for bed bug research, seeks efficacy requirements for 25B products, outlines criteria that should be taken into account by EPA when registering products, and offers a pilot mitigation program in three states for treatment help for lower income families with bed bugs. 2

3 It was reported that there had been an incredible level of statewide interest in bed bug legislation with at least ten states considering various types of legislation. Bed Bug Meetings Staff provided an overview of the 16- city bed bug workshops that would be done in conjunction with the National Apartment Association, the American Hotel and Lodging Association, and the Association of College and University Housing Officials in April and May. They noted the meetings, endorsed by EPA s PESP program, were designed to help the members of the partner associations receive accurate, reliable information on bed bugs. Staff indicated NPMA was working with the various state associations in the production of these meetings. Staff then highlighted the National Canine Conference that had been planned for June in Philadelphia, explaining the program was designed to educate companies who use dogs in their pest control businesses or are considering doing so. Consumer Education on Bed Bugs Staff provided a brief overview of the Bed Bugs in America Report, produced by PPMA, highlighting that one in five Americans has now come into contact with bed bugs directly or indirectly. It was indicated that staff had supported the Congressional Bed Bug Forum and the recent EPA Bed Bug Summit, indicating the latter had received significant media attention in which NPMA participated. Staff reviewed new website activity related to bed bugs, including the spring launch of a new bed bug micro- site for consumers. NPMA planned to once again work with the University of Kentucky in producing an industry- oriented bed bug survey. Finally staff indicated PPMA would be developing a PSA on bed bugs and was talking with EPA and the American Hotel and Lodging Association about possible collaboration on such a project. VII. NPMA Conference and Convention Report Staff reminded the group that PestWorld 2011 would take place October in New Orleans. Staff indicated with advance planning with representatives from the area and initial interest from exhibitors, the year s convention was already looking to be a strong show. It was reported that July s Academy programming was also shaping up well and promised to offer solid education. It was indicated that NPMA would host a meeting for Middle Eastern pest professionals in Dubai in May, with sponsoring organizations from the region. Individual Board members were invited to attend the meeting if they had an interest. A panel of U.S. companies was being assembled on successful business models and volunteers were being solicited to speak. Offering a brief summary of conference attendance from the past year, staff indicated attendance at regional conferences and state association meetings was rebounding and many saw a 10-15% increased attendance over the past year. VIII. Government Affairs Report Staff referenced two pieces of legislation of concern for the pest management industry. First, they addressed legislation to exempt pesticide applicators from having to obtain 3

4 National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits, reversing the decision of a federal appeals court in Staff noted that if the bill wasn t enacted by April, many in the industry would be required to get permits under the Clean Water Act if applying pesticides to, near, or over water. Staff stressed the difficulty and extreme costs associated with doing so and encouraged all members to advocate for their elected officials to back the NPMA- supported legislation. Staff then addressed industry challenges associated with the Endangered Species Act, noting that some activist groups felt that if EPA made a decision on the use or application of a pesticide but didn t consult with the Fish and Wildlife Service of the National Marine Fishery Service then they would have violated the law. They reported that several suits had been filed to require EPA to have such consultations and asking the Courts to restrict the use of the pesticide named in the suit until the case was settled. Of particular concern is the so- called mega- suit in which several environmental groups have asked the courts to restrict the use of nearly 400 pesticide active ingredients because of their impact on approximately 200 species located in virtually every location in the United States. Staff reported that, while the industry had done well so far, action would need to be taken and at least $30,000 would need to be raised for monitoring the legislation and filing an amicus curiae brief at an appropriate time. NPMA would likely hold a golf tournament at Academy to raise such funds. Staff encouraged all in attendance to support the NPMA PAC. Judy Dold indicated Bob Dold, Jr. was off to a good start in his new role as a Representative and thanked the industry for their tremendous support of his campaign. IX. Technical Report Staff noted the Technical Committee was interested in developing qualifications for good science in regard to new products for bed bugs. Staff reported they were also interested in composing revisions to the roof rat distribution map because of reported changes in the locations the pest was being found. X. Division Activity Report WDO Division Staff noted this group would be exploring changes termite inspectors needed to make for inspections of encapsulated crawl spaces and for spray- on insulation in crawl spaces and attics. Commercial Division Staff noted the Bed Bug Workgroup had made recommendations to PPMA for strengthening their consumer information on bed bugs on They reported the Food Plant Workgroup was reviewing the NPMA Food Plant Standards. The Multi- Family Housing Sub- Committee, it was noted, had developed a tool for members to use in the initial pre- inspection interview with multi- family housing customers. And finally, it was explained that the School IPM Sub- Committee had the opportunity to comment on EPA s School IPM Plan. Canine Insect Detection Division It was noted this group had worked extensively in contributing to the development of the canine section of the Best Management Practices and the appendix related to canine certification testing. 4

5 Fumigation Division Staff reported that the Division was working on two initiatives; the first was changes to proposed restrictions on the continued use of sulfuryl fluoride in food plants because of EPA s proposal revoking food tolerances for this product, mostly because of larger fluoride issues. Secondly, they reported the group had been working on State Clean Air Act permitting requirements, most recently in Virginia, where a state proposal would have presented challenges to the use of methyl bromide and phosphine. Staff members were thanked for their efforts on the fumigation issues in Virginia. Wildlife Division- Staff shared that the Wildlife Division would be holding discussions about merging its meeting with other groups holding similar conferences such as the Nuisance Wildlife Operators Association. XI. NPMA Committees Business Management Committee Staff indicated the Business Management Committee was actively looking for ways to help members strengthen their business operations with the development of fresh educational offerings. To best assess areas needed for educational delivery, the Committee had surveyed members about what service lines they d like more information on and did an analysis about what respondents were seeking. They stated the number one area was bed bugs followed by wildlife, including chimney caps. Staff indicated the Committee would work to provide legs to these needs with content on what to watch out for, what works, how to manage, and more. Staff continued that the Committee would also be offering guidance on a variety of topics associated with the Internet including how to combat negative reviews on sites like Yelp or Angie s list and then also how companies could minimize any potential harm from employees referencing company activities on various social media outlets. Finally, staff noted the Committee would be working to help companies and their technicians better understand cross selling. Professional Women in Pest Management Staff shared that the group continued to try and connect women in the industry while also working to attract more women to the industry. They reported programming and collateral had been developed toward both goals. Staff noted PWIPM continued to try and build a candidate base for the annual scholarship for women in the industry and encouraged all present to think of deserving women to nominate. Staff reported that PWIPM raised $10K for the Susan Komen for the Cure organization with their 5K race during PestWorld They expected increased success at PestWorld Furthering their philanthropy commitment, staff indicated the group continued their support for the Dress for Success organization through solicitation of gently used professional clothing for women. Staff encouraged the Board to remind women to think about serving on NPMA committees and be active in workgroups of the organization and to consider nominating deserving candidates for the Women of Excellence Award. 5

6 Leadership Development Group Staff indicated the LDG was working on program development for Academy. Staff noted the group wanted to expand the mentoring program as demand was beginning to surpass the list of available mentees. Staff encouraged the Board and past presidents to consider serving in mentoring roles to those newer to the industry. XII. QualityPro Report Staff reported that QualityPro was continuing to raise the bar of professionalism within the industry with updated materials for members. They indicated all QualityPro members had recently received the 2.0 version of the program. They noted the organization was developing promotional videos, one to encourage PCOs to get involved in QualityPro and the other to educate consumers about the value of working with a QualityPro company. Staff elaborated that the group would continue to develop new marketing pieces and new benefits as greater resources are invested into the program. Staff then addressed the GreenPro program, highlighting that any company in GreenPro will automatically qualify for the Gold Level of the EPA Pesticide Environmental Stewardship Program. Staff shared that GreenPro would begin using paper audits conducted by a panel of experts to make the program easier for participants, yet still preserving even strengthening the quality of the audit. XIII. Resource Center Report Staff made the group aware of the new Bed Bug Bundle that had been created to respond to member needs for bed bug products. Staff noted staff was exploring an online learning center as a way of faster delivery of information for members and a better way of controlling printing costs for the Resource Center. Another new project highlighted was the addition of Quality Pro articles in the Pest Gazette. Finally, staff reminded the Board about the availability of the Field Guide app for iphones and Droids. XIV. Membership Report Staff indicated staff would be working over the next several months to ensure the headquarters office has accurate contact information for all members. Staff noted they would also be strengthening the new member welcome process, automating much of the information distributed and creating an online tool kit. Staff reported the Joint State Council would meet later in the week and would discuss the continuing importance of membership recruitment. XV. Communications Report Staff provided an overview of the myriad of projects in which the Marketing and Communications Department had been involved including promoting a host of meetings and the Bug Store and in continuing to develop the content of PestWorld to make it more appealing to readers. Staff noted that advertising support for PestWorld had increased, which can be considered a response to the recent enhancements to the newsletter. Staff indicated that social media was being used with increasing frequency to promote NPMA 6

7 programs and events and that new multimedia outlets would be used more often to promote Association initiatives. Staff provided a summary of the NPMA webinars, noting that an average of participants are attending the programs. Staff shared that the NPMA website is averaging about 13,000 unique visitors monthly, a significant increase from the prior year. Staff was complimented for the improved look and feel of NPMA materials. XVI. PPMA Report Staff shared results from PPMA s media relations efforts in 2010, noting there had been more than one billion audience impressions and more than $100 million in ad value (up from 603 million and $29 million in 2009, respectively). While bed bugs generated a tremendous amount of the increased coverage for the industry, she said the pest had encouraged coverage on other pests by journalists as well. Staff indicated that many of the PPMA initiatives for 2011 would be shared at the Alliance s Board meeting later in the week. XVII. Pest Management Foundation Report Staff reported that the Foundation had solicited research proposals for funding of up to $35,000 and that 11 proposals, requesting more than $265,000 of funding, had been received. Staff indicated the Foundation Board would meet later in the week to consider the funding requests. XVIII. Other Business Update on Limited Benefit Insurance Plan Staff provided an update on the limited benefit medical plan approved at the last Board Meeting, noting that members would be provided with four different plan options including an HAS assist plan that was added at the request of members. It was emphasized that this program would benefit NPMA s smaller members who weren t offering full health plans within their companies. Staff indicated NPMA would receive $5,000 from the sponsoring company and the provider would be responsible for marketing the program to members. The Board was challenged to continue to investigate options for a comprehensive health care program for the industry when health care laws changed to permit association programs. Recommended Bylaw Change The Bylaws Committee put forward a recommendation to change the election process for the NPMA Board of Directors as follows: The current Nominating Committee structure would remain unchanged. The Committee would be responsible for nominating up to 10 candidates for the At- large candidates and would be responsible for nominating candidates and up to three candidates for the regional directors. Additionally, the Committee will be responsible for identifying a list of candidates 7

8 for the position of Secretary and recommending consideration of that list to the NPMA Board of Directors. The Board will reserve the right to ratify the list of at- large and regional directors as well as select up to two candidates to run for the position of Secretary. All votes cast by the Board will be done in the form of a secret ballot. The nominations from the Board will then be submitted to the general membership for the final vote. This proposal is recommended for approval by the NPMA Executive Committee. After much discussion, the consensus of the Board was to nominate only one candidate nominated for the position of secretary and directed staff to work with the group continue to work through the language further and present a revised proposal to the Board in July. XIX. Adjournment Mr. Kordek thanked the Board for the opportunity to serve as President of NPMA and for their tremendous commitment to and respect for the organization. He said serving in the role was one of the highlights of his professional career. There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at approximately 3:45 p.m. 8