As I’ve mentioned before, members of the Gulf Coast Builders Exchange (GCBX) build hospitals, schools, the places you go to work, parks, fire stations and police stations. We also build the places you, your family and visitors enjoy — Mote Marine Aquarium, Selby Gardens, the Pirates and Braves Stadiums and the Bishop Museum, just to name a few! We proudly represent the Commercial Contracting industry and have done so since 1952. Same name, same great members doing great work in the community!

GCBX members believe in building with more than brick and mortar, we believe in building strong communities. That is why GCBX has always supported the Manatee and Sarasota County School Systems and we continue that support by endorsing the referendums that appear on Tuesday’s ballot in both counties. Both referendums highlight how the business community can come together to build stronger communities that help all of us as residents. The effort in Sarasota spearheaded by Argus and supported by most of the members of the Coalition of Business Associations shows that business leaders realize a strong school system is essential for a strong economy and a strong sustainable workforce. We strongly encourage everyone to VOTE YES on these referendums.

Our region has taken a hit in the recent storms, but we are resilient and we will come back and come back stronger as long as we stick together!

At GCBX we are proud when we see the legacy of GCBX members in the community from recent projects such as the St. Regis on Longboat Key, Selby Gardens, the new Mote Aquarium to ongoing projects such as Sarasota Memorial Hospital and its new South Campus. We are proud of the public safety structures in Wellen Park and the new schools that serve new families in the area.

While these structures are tangible examples of the work of GCBX members, they are also strong drivers for the region’s economy. Countless numbers of workers were employed during the construction of these buildings and because these are local contractors that money stays in this community. It doesn’t get sent out of town. It stimulates our local economy and supports local families. That’s the whole idea of doing business locally. 

This is an important concept particularly with projects funded through tax dollars, and throughout the local economy. As we recover from the Summer/Fall of 2024, we have to focus on supporting local businesses. You will see initiatives by the Sarasota and Manatee EDC’s reminding all of us of the importance of doing business with local businesses. As we come into the holiday season we must remember how important it is to spend our money locally to support our neighbors and our communities. It is also a time to set aside any political differences, rise above those differences and join together for the future of our community and the benefit of all!

Additionally, I’m proud of GCBX members who are continually giving back to the community as major sponsors at any and all of the charitable events you may attend. They understand the significance of a strong local community and a strong local economy.

Giving back is in our DNA at GCBX. We support our schools, we support local charities and we support local businesses. That makes us GCBX Strong and makes all of us stronger!

Mary Dougherty is executive director of Gulf Coast Builders Exchange.