Dear Dealer,

As my term concludes as 2024–2025 Chairman of the Chicago Automobile Trade Association, and I prepare to take on the role of 2026 Chicago Auto Show Chairman, I am both honored and humbled to reflect on the past year of service. It has been a time marked by both challenges and progress, moments that tested our resolve as dealers, but ultimately reinforced the strength and unity of our industry.

In stepping into this leadership role, I was mindful of the legacy built by those who served before me. I stand on the shoulders of generations of dealer leaders who gave their time, energy, and expertise to advocate for our businesses and protect our shared interests. Their tireless work laid the foundation that made it possible for our Board to continue advancing the mission of the CATA on behalf of dealers across the Chicagoland area.

The CATA standing Committees are the engines that drive the organization, so I will begin here.

The Government Relations and Lobbying Committee, which I chaired, spent countless hours meeting with our representatives in Springfield to try to effectuate three very important matters to dealers. First, we are concerned that the restructured retail allowance cap is particularly burdensome to our dealers considering the volume and amounts of transactions they process, and we have sought to create a carve-out for vehicle transactions, with any lost revenue to the state more than made up by tightening the laws on taxing private sales. Secondly, we added our voice and resources in fighting for a $100 increase in the documentary fee. Finally, we advocated for an amendment to the Motor Vehicle Franchise Act which would favorably modify language on warranties and right of first refusal, while clearly providing that legacy manufacturers cannot create new entities to sell directly to the public. Sadly, for differing reasons, none of these endeavors came to fruition in this past legislative session; however, the CATA will continue to advocate for these causes in succeeding sessions for the betterment of all.

The Auto Show Committee, with Kelly Webb Roberts as Chairwoman, produced a fabulous 2025 Chicago Auto Show despite continuing headwinds. Helped by Stellantis’ return, the Show resembled shows of the past, with more than 100,000 in-vehicle experiences, an all-time record. The First Look for Charity gala raised $2.5 million for participating charities. Our advertising expenditure of over $438,000 was buttressed by almost $1.6 million in bonus weight. All in all, the Show continues to be the premier consumer show in the country and a media and public relations home run for the OEMs and CATA dealers.

As a prelude to the 2025 Chicago Auto Show, the CATA conducted its third Chicago Drives Electric event this past October. Included were 15 participating brands: Audi, BMW, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Dodge, Fiat, Ford, GMC, Hyundai, Kia, Lexus, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota and Volvo. In February, the 2025 Chicago Auto Show’s Chicago Drives Electric track featured 12 participating brands spanning 25 different models on two test tracks totaling 100,000 square feet. Chicago Drives Electric has been an unqualified success by any measure.

The Member Benefits Committee, under John Crane’s leadership, researched and vetted allied companies who could provide worthwhile programs, vendors, and cost efficiencies to CATA members. Only the best of the best of these ultimately received CATA recognition.

The Finance, Pension, Audit, and Compensation Committee, comprised of CATA Officers, has worked diligently over the past several years to stabilize the CATA’s finances in the face of continuing pressures on the Auto Show. Not only has the Committee examined ways to increase revenue and decrease costs, but it has worked hand in hand with the Member Benefits Committee to expand the wide range of benefits the CATA provides to its dealers.

The Civic and Dealer Relations and First Look for Charity Committee, under Emir Abinion’s leadership, ensures that the charitable aspects of the CATA continue in high gear. Whether it’s the First Look for Charity Event, which generated $2.5 million this year for charities; the BBQ for the Troops, now rebranded Drive for the Troops, which to date has raised almost $1.2 million for the USO; or the Chicagoland Dealers Care program, where the CATA provides matching contributions of up to $1,500 to charities put forth by our dealer members, these efforts combine significant community engagement with awareness of our member dealers’ continuing generosity to the communities they serve.

The Employee Relations Committee, chaired by Jerry Haggerty, continued to set a path forward to provide answers to dealers’ questions in the employment arena as well as to provide a revised strategy for upcoming labor negotiation. Our employee benefits provider, SESCO, has broad experience with many state dealer associations, and has shown itself to be an invaluable tool in providing answers to employment issues that arise. Regarding upcoming negotiations, the CATA has implemented a structural change wherein dealers rather than attorneys drive the bargaining process. With this new template we hope to avoid bitterness and confrontation (and strikes) in the upcoming negotiations.

The Drive Chicago Committee, under Jared Wickstrom’s leadership, continually looks for ways to update and refine the DriveChicago.com website in its efforts to be the definitive website for vehicle purchases in the Chicagoland area.

The Media Strategy Committee, chaired by Steve Phillipos, again strategically directed $438,500 toward media on behalf of the Chicago Auto Show, Chicago Drives Electric, BBQ for the Troops, and other worthwhile events.

Finally, the Nominating Committee, after reaching out for suggestions from fellow dealers, nominated five outstanding candidates to run for the four vacancies this year on the CATA Board of Directors. The Committee continues to seek out and find knowledgeable candidates of the highest integrity to serve as CATA Directors.

It has been a privilege to serve alongside the 11 dedicated members of the CATA Board of Directors, fellow dealers who continue to give generously of their time, energy, and insight to strengthen our industry. I especially want to recognize J.C. Phelan, who concludes his service on the Board after an incredible nine-year tenure. J.C.’s leadership across every Director role including Chairman and Auto Show Chairman, has been marked by wisdom, steadiness, and a deep commitment to the dealer community. His presence will be missed, but his impact will continue to resonate.

I also extend my deepest appreciation to the CATA staff, led by President Jen Morand in her first full year at the helm. Jen, along with Executive Vice President Chris Konecki, continues to elevate our association through innovation, energy, and a deep understanding of the issues we face. Their professionalism and dedication are essential to everything the CATA accomplishes.

A special thank you as well to Dennis O’Keefe, our General Counsel, whose unparalleled knowledge of the legal landscape and unwavering guidance have been invaluable, not only during my term, but to every Director who has served over the years.

Finally, I congratulate Ryan Kelly on his election as 2025–2026 CATA Chairman. Ryan brings not only experience and judgment, but a proud family legacy. His father, Art Kelly, served as Chairman in 2004–2005. I have every confidence that Ryan will lead with distinction and vision.

Linked here is a summary of the actions taken by the CATA Board of Directors over the past year. Thank you again for the opportunity to serve, and I look forward to what lies ahead.

Sincerely,

Jason Roberts

CATA Chairman 2024/2025