Bill Branning COPYRIGHTED I don’t think I’ve seen anyone work harder than Bill to make Delray a better place. - Jeff Perlman 82 | <strong>December</strong> <strong>2019</strong> | www.<strong>Atlantic</strong><strong>Ave</strong>Magazine.com
egulars | city people by diane feen | Photo by Melissa korman Building Our Future If Bill Branning were an antibiotic there would be too much healthy stuff to fit into one capsule. He is overflowing with knowledge of Delray’s intricate infrastructure, his peers and the importance of giving back. Branning has been invaluable to the essence and establishments that stand beside him. To those who know him – in both his business and personal life – he is a consummate builder with a big heart and broad smile who hasn’t stopped building, both in around Delray Beach since the 80s. To the matriarch of Old School Square, Frances Bourque, he is the brightest young man she’s had the pleasure of spending the last 40 years with to make Delray dreams come true. Those dreams have been in the Branning family for years. According to Branning lore, his family came to Florida in 1815. They settled in Middleburg, Florida and built a church that still stands today. His father Charley was a mechanical engineer, his uncle was an electrical engineer and Bill went to University of Florida with a plan to major in mechanical engineering. But he quickly realized that his passion was better suited for a degree in Building Construction. There are a lot of people in Delray who are grateful Branning followed the building construction path. “I don’t think I’ve seen anyone work harder than Bill to make Delray a better place. His work at Old School Square, the Delray Chamber, the CRA and on city boards has been invaluable,” said former mayor Jeff Perlman. Branning is also legendary for his expertise in construction, project management and attention to detail. According to former CRA Executive Director Diane Colonna, Branning’s expertise in construction and budgeting were invaluable to them as they tackled ambitious programs and infrastructure projects. “He helped us avoid pitfalls in project bidding and management and helped to ensure that the agency got the best product for its money. He did all of this on a volunteer basis, spending hours reviewing specifications and budgets. The CRA and the City benefited greatly from Bill’s contributions.” It makes sense that Branning would have a stake in the land that sits beneath his feet. He is a 7th generation Floridian who grew up in North Palm Beach and Miami. His grandfather Percy was a boat captain born on Datura street in West Palm and his greatgrandfather was a banker on Clematis Street. Bill is revered for his expertise in the building business and is President of BSA Construction Company situated in a historic house in downtown Delray. He was involved in the original renovation of the Sundy House, the historical restoration of the Cornell Theatre, the relocation of the Historical Society offices and other building projects that define Delray Beach. He has also been a fixture in boards and organizations around Delray. He spent 10 years as a board member of the Delray Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA), was Chairman of the Board of Old School Square (for four years) and is the outgoing Chairman of the Board of the Delray Chamber of Commerce. His life has been a kaleidoscope of projects sprinkled all over the city and boards that oversee its excellence. Branning was on the SPRAB Board, Historical Preservation Board, Parking Management Advisory Board, Historical Society Board and Chair of the Associated General Contractors of America WPB chapter. Though he has dedicated endless hours to volunteering on boards and committees in Delray, he sees its inherent benefit. “Volunteer members of the community create the fabric of who we are as a city. It’s important to be a part of the process of creating the vision and helping achieve goals that move Delray forward.” Branning is a man of his word. “Bill is dedicated and loyal to his community, his friends and family. He inspires and encourages everyone - but when he raises his shoulders, opens up his arms and puts on his captivating smile, you know you have been ‘BRANNING-ed,’” said Bourque, the founder of Old School Square. Part of the Branning allure is his positive outlook and adventurous nature. When not at a committee meeting or construction site he can be found wandering the globe. His passion is travel and he gleefully describes his recent trips outside the confines of his immediate homestead. When asked about his favorite places to travel he quickly replies: “I have a lot of favorite places, but I really love adventuring and discovering new places.” Those places this year include the New Orleans Jazz Festival, Puerto Rico and the California wine country. It is often said that a solid life is made up of work and play, and Branning seems to embody this philosophy. His generous spirit and intelligence are like frames to the picture that fills it. His friend Roger DeCapito has always known that about Branning. “Bill is an amazing businessman and friend. He finds time to volunteer at Old School Square, the Chamber, and boards around town, yet still finds time for friends and customers. He is a great contractor with a big heart.” When it comes to the Chamber Branning is leaving the helm with great confidence in its future. “I’m excited about our change in leadership. Since we brought Stephanie Immelman aboard as CEO, the Chamber’s value to its members has improved greatly. Programs have been reworked, marketing and messaging has been refocused and we are serving our membership more effectively than ever.” Seeing positive growth is paramount in Branning’s life. But others see the foundation of its pouring. “Bill is honest - and this honesty shared with love and encouragement makes you become the best you can be,” adds Bourque. COPYRIGHTED www.<strong>Atlantic</strong><strong>Ave</strong>Magazine.com | <strong>December</strong> <strong>2019</strong> | 83
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