Key Leaders Event Features Industry Experts

Experts from various fields spoke to more than 60 bankers at the annual IBA Key Leaders Legislative Seminar on December 12 on topics ranging from politics to the budget situation in the state of Iowa. This seminar is held annually for IBA volunteer leaders.

The conservative nature of the Federal Home Loan Bank (FHLB) system has been helpful in the current housing environment. So said George Crowley, FHLB of Des Moines senior vice president in explaining that the 12-bank FHLB system is sound and secure.

“In the 75 year history of the Federal Home Loan Bank system, we have never lost a dime,” said Crowley.

Earlier, Steve McCullough, CEO of Iowa Student Loan, told bankers that, though under public scrutiny, Iowa Student Loan Liquidity Corporation (ISLC) lending is more efficient than banks making, holding or selling student loans.

State Auditor David Vaudt gave his perspective on the current budget situation in the State of Iowa and looked at five-year trends and made projections for 2009.

Bankers had several conversations with experts on politics--local and national. Republican nominee for governor in 2002 Doug Gross participated in a point-counterpoint discussion with Iowa Democratic Party chairman Scott Brennan. Both made predictions on the outcome of the Iowa caucus and the ultimate winner of the Presidential election. They also commented on the future of the Iowa caucuses.

The day ended with a state legislative panel featuring Democratic and Republican leadership from both the House and the Senate. Senator Jeff Angelo (R-Creston), Senate Assistant Minority Leader, Senator Roger Steward (D-Preston); Rep. Kraig Paulsen (R-Hiawatha), House Minority Whip and Rep. Kevin McCarthy, House Minority Leader all participated. They discussed upcoming hot topics in the next session and priorities for each party and fielded questions from the audience.

Senator Jeff Angelo (R-Creston), Senate Assistant Minority Leader, Senator Roger Steward (D-Preston); Rep. Kraig Paulsen (R-Hiawatha), House Minority Whip and Rep. Kevin McCarthy, House Minority Leader, discuss hot topics for the 2008 session.

State Auditor David Vaudt gave a presentation on the current budget situation in the state of Iowa.

Doug Gross (left) and Scott Brennan talked about the upcoming Iowa Caucuses and gave predictions on the outcome.