The Texas Association of Campground Owners (TACO) has taken a significant step to bolster its government affairs efforts by introducing a new position specifically designed for a legislative liaison.
This move is aimed at strengthening the association’s advocacy and representation in legislative matters affecting the campground and outdoor hospitality industry.
Randall Dally, the current president of TACO, has been appointed as the inaugural legislative liaison, a role that promises to enhance the association’s ongoing government affairs initiatives. Dally’s new position is set to complement the efforts of Ron Hinkle, TACO’s long-serving lobbyist, and the association’s broader government relations strategy.
Brian Schaeffer, TACO’s executive director and CEO, underscored the importance of this new role in the context of increasing governmental involvement in the industry.
“With city, county, and state government looking to get more involved in our business, we always need the perspective of a park owner/operator,” Schaeffer stated. He expressed confidence in Dally’s ability to fulfill this need, given his extensive experience as both a park owner and an active participant in TACO’s legislative endeavors.
Dally’s appointment is particularly noteworthy given his background and commitment to the industry. Having owned and operated Rayburn RV Hideout in Brookeland since 2002 and been a TACO member for 17 years, Dally brings a wealth of experience and insight to the legislative liaison role. His active involvement in TACO’s legislative efforts over the past six years further positions him as a key asset in this new capacity.
The responsibilities associated with the legislative liaison position are comprehensive and critical to the association’s mission. Dally will be tasked with engaging TACO members, legislators, their staff, and other government entities on legislative issues pertinent to park operators. His role also includes testifying before government committees as required, ensuring that the interests and perspectives of TACO members are effectively represented.
The creation of this position reflects TACO’s commitment to enhancing its government affairs efforts and providing additional benefits to its members. The association anticipates that Dally will dedicate approximately 3-5 hours per month to legislative issues in non-legislative years, with this commitment increasing to 5-10 hours per month during legislative sessions.
This strategic move by TACO is expected to have a significant impact on the campground and outdoor hospitality industry. By strengthening its government affairs capabilities, TACO aims to ensure that the interests of campground and RV park owners, as well as outdoor hospitality operators, are well-represented at the city, county, and state levels. The association’s proactive approach in this regard is indicative of its dedication to advocating for the industry and addressing the challenges and opportunities that arise from governmental policies and regulations.
The introduction of the legislative liaison position is a clear indication of TACO’s forward-thinking strategy and its commitment to serving its members effectively. With Dally at the helm of the association’s legislative efforts, TACO is well-positioned to navigate the complexities of government relations and to advocate for policies that support the growth and sustainability of the campground and outdoor hospitality industry.
As the industry continues to evolve, TACO’s enhanced government affairs capabilities, spearheaded by the new legislative liaison role, will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of camping, glamping, and outdoor hospitality in Texas and beyond. This development marks a significant milestone for TACO and its members, reinforcing the association’s role as a leading advocate for the industry.