Summary
This 8-K filing by AvalonBay Communities, Inc. (AVB) on November 4, 2014, announces a significant change in its Board of Directors. Effective January 1, 2015, Terry S. Brown will be appointed as an independent director. Mr. Brown brings extensive experience in real estate development and finance, currently serving as Chairman and CEO of EDENS, a major retail real estate owner and developer. His appointment is expected to enhance the board's expertise, particularly in investment and audit matters, as he will join the Investment and Finance Committee and the Audit Committee. The filing also details the compensatory arrangements for Mr. Brown, including restricted stock grants and cash payments that are pro-rata portions of the compensation provided to other non-employee directors. This appointment increases the size of the Board from ten to eleven directors. The company has carefully considered Mr. Brown's independence, noting past transactions between an affiliate of AvalonBay and an affiliate of EDENS, and has concluded that these do not impair his independence according to NYSE standards.
Key Highlights
- 1Appointment of Terry S. Brown as an independent director to the Board of Directors, effective January 1, 2015.
- 2Mr. Brown's extensive background in real estate, including his current role as Chairman and CEO of EDENS.
- 3Mr. Brown will serve on the Investment and Finance Committee and the Audit Committee.
- 4The Board size will increase from ten to eleven directors.
- 5Details provided on Mr. Brown's compensation, including restricted stock grants and cash payments.
- 6Confirmation of Mr. Brown's independence despite prior transactions between AvalonBay and EDENS affiliates.
- 7An Indemnification Agreement is anticipated to be entered into with Mr. Brown.