President's Message

I’m honored to be the 2012 BOMA Oklahoma City President.  I enter into this year with great excitement, optimism and some trepidation for the job that lies ahead.  I have great respect and admiration for my predecessors and their accomplishments.  I know I have big shoes to fill.

I especially want to thank 2011 President Michelle Anderson for nominating me.  Her leadership and guidance served as an invaluable lesson in my preparation for this year.  I also want to thank our Association Executive, Dolores McNiven, for all of her hard work and dedication.  You are our Association’s greatest asset!

We have a lot to be excited about in our local market.  The evolution of OKC’s Central Business District, the opening of our first outlet mall, and the expansions of Classen Curve and town centers offer opportunities for tenants across markets. In large part due to the significant oil and natural gas presence, vacancy and foreclosures have remained fairly low in the industrial market despite the turbulent economy. As Devon prepares to move into its newly constructed world headquarters in 2012, we may see a temporary increase of vacancy in the office market, but rental rates will not be impacted due to the expansion of current tenants in Oklahoma City and new tenants entering the market.  The development of the CBD and expansion of the oil and gas industry, position Oklahoma City for continued growth in 2012 and beyond.

I look forward to a great year working with all of you and continuing the success that we are accustomed to. I hope that all of you take the time to appreciate what BOMA brings and get involved to make this an even more valuable organization.

I hope you all have a prosperous year!

Richard Van Voast