BOMA/Chicago

BOMA/Chicago supports House Bill 3312, which just passed the Illinois House Public Utilities Committee. This bill improves access to whole-building energy data for benchmarking while protecting tenant privacy. BOMA/Chicago's Amy Masters testified in partnership with the Illinois Green Alliance, highlighting its benefits for property owners. Read more: https://bit.ly/4lajhN6

We had a packed house for our Labor 101 Seminar, where instructors David Hopwood (JLL) and Jeremy Glenn (Cozen O'Connor) led an insightful discussion on how BOMA/Chicago's labor agreements are structured and the advantages they offer for building operations. Thank you to our instructors and attendees for a great session!

Join us for #EarthHour!?? Tonight, from 8:30 to 9:30 PM, we’re flipping the switch—literally! Watch as we turn off the lights on our office's skyline art installation by Czr Prz in support of #EarthHour. ? Earth Hour is more than just an hour in the dark—it’s a powerful reminder that collective action can make a significant difference in the fight against climate change. Join us and millions around the world in powering down for a more sustainable future.

The BOMA/Chicago Preparedness Committee welcomed State’s Attorney Eileen O’Neill Burke to their latest meeting for an insightful discussion on her early initiatives to enhance public safety in downtown Chicago and beyond. Thank you to State’s Attorney Burke and her office for an engaging and informative conversation!

Meet our Director, Micah Larmie (Transwestern)! ?? A dedicated BOMA/Chicago member for nearly 20 years, Micah started on the Emerging Leaders Committee and now serves as Board Liaison to the Events Committee. Micah says her strength and drive are inspired by the women in her family. Her mother, who balanced multiple jobs while raising a family, instilled in her a relentless work ethic and the confidence to chase her dreams. Her grandmother, who attended college in NYC in the 1930s, set an example of breaking barriers long before it was common. Her advice to women in commercial real estate? “Listen, push, pull, ask questions, seek solutions, be yourself, be confident. The ceiling has thinned—keep the momentum going. Don’t be afraid to take a leap, be innovative, speak your voice, establish your place.” #WomensHistoryMonth

A strong downtown means a strong Chicago. This Chicago SunTimes article highlights why revitalizing our city’s core is more important than ever. Read more: https://bit.ly/3FBSfOe

As downtown office vacancies increase, commercial property values decline, shifting the tax burden onto homeowners. Yet, the demands for more taxes keep coming. Our Executive Director Farzin Parang contributes to the Chicago SunTimes article breaking it all down: https://bit.ly/4kwBAvA. A thriving downtown is essential for a thriving Chicago.

BOMA/Chicago Board Member Kate Guercio has been a dedicated member for 20 years, demonstrating leadership through her service on the Events, Communications, and Emerging Leader Committees. Her company, Hard Surface Finishers, strengthens our community as a Premier Partner and Emerging Leader Partner. As Partner of Hard Surface Finishers, Kate was named Affiliate Member of the Year, a testament to her unwavering commitment to the industry, mentorship, and leadership. Kate credits inspiring women like Faye Oomen, a trailblazer in construction and leasing, for shaping her career. As one of Kate’s first managers, Faye became both a mentor and close friend, instilling valuable lessons on work-life balance, resilience, and leadership—principles that continue to guide Kate today. In honor of #WomensHistoryMonth, Kate supports organizations that aid oppressed women across the world. She encourages others to embrace every learning opportunity, get involved, and build meaningful connections—because the more people you meet, the more opportunities you create.

Check out what member-building River Point (Hines) is doing! ?? The team hosted their Fourth Annual International Women's Day Celebration, bringing tenants together for an inspiring event. With guest speakers, a live band, raffles, and networking opportunities—all while raising money for unhoused women in Chicago— this event made a meaningful impact!???? #IWD #CREcommunity

Exciting leadership updates from the BOMA/Chicago Foundation! ?? Congratulations to Bridgette Battle (Hines) as new President; Joe Sherman (Chicago Symphony Orchestra) as new Vice President; and Teresa Amaro (Sterling Bay) as new Treasurer. We’re also thrilled to welcome Zachary Thomas (EQ Office) as the new Emerging Leader Director! A special thank you to Lance Knez (Hines) for his incredible leadership as Foundation President since 2021. Under Lance’s tenure, the Foundation reached new heights—setting new records for sponsorships, attendance, and revenue, as well as launching an internship program and supporting the country's first registered apprenticeship program for commercial office management. Thank you, Lance, for your unwavering commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive future in commercial real estate!