From the Publisher

Arnold was executive director of the Northeast Florida Builders Association (NEFBA) for nearly 35 years before stepping aside last year and assuming a new role as executive advisor. And during his tenure, he became a legend in the homebuilding industry.

Heck, he should have gotten an award just for remaining with the same organization. Association work is demanding and the burnout rate is relatively high.

But Arnold did so much more than simply warm a chair for nearly four decades. He built a fledgling group of a few dozen builders into the largest and most influential association of its kind in the state.

More than that, he established and nurtured an industry culture that emphasized community involvement and charitable endeavors.

Sure, he was knee-deep in political issues such as impact fees, building codes and growth management legislation. And he was an innovator in association management and a mentor for countless industry leaders.

Still, Arnold was among the first to realize that the collective clout of the homebuilding industry could be—and should be—a tremendous force for good.

So he made certain that homebuilders were front and center every time there was a need, from rehabilitating substandard homes for the elderly and disabled to constructing homeless shelters, medical clinics and group homes for children.

Arnold never put himself out front and was quick to deflect credit to his members. And he was right, as far as he went. But without Arnold’s leadership and passion, hundreds—maybe thousands—of Northeast Florida’s most vulnerable residents would never have been touched by NEFBA’s many heart-tugging projects.

On a personal note, when Jacksonville" target="_blank">Jacksonville Homebuyer started operations here, Arnold was helpful in so many ways that it would be impossible to elaborate on them all. I will always be grateful for the role he played in the success of our business—and for his friendship and support.

Mr. Tritt, welcome to the Florida Housing Hall of Fame. But you’ve been a member of the Jacksonville" target="_blank">Jacksonville Homebuyer Hall of Fame for quite some time.

That said, let’s talk a bit about this issue. Inside you’ll find a roundup of waterfront living options and beautiful rooms by the region’s most talented interior designers. You’ll also meet Bill Cellar, incoming NEFBA president, and take a tour of the region’s wonderful neighborhoods.

In short, it’s an issue chock-full of news you need to know. So, let’s get started.

—Penelope Geismar, Publisher
penelopeg@florida-homebuyer.com