The Digest | Jul-Sep 2022 by Housing First Minnesota

Digest T H E

JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022

Foundation Gala Annual fundraising event helps build futures through housing

ASK THE EXPERT

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

ADVOCACY IN ACTION

Building a Barrier-Free Bathroom

Spring Award Winners

A Growing Coalition for Homeownership

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Contents JU LY – SEP TEM B E R 2 0 2 2

HOUSING FIRST

From the President

Elite Sponsors

James Julkowski discusses the strength of your association Thank you to our industry partners

UP NEXT

Events

Leadership Update

Need to Know

See what’s coming up next for industry events Announcing our new executive director

A quick look at what’s going on at your association

IN THE INDUSTRY

Advocacy in Action

Industry Data

The latest housing happenings at the Capitol Residential construction impacted by delays

BUSINESS TIPS

I Need a Permit For What?

Navigating the mysterious waters of building permits

The Power of Home Tours

What makes home tours such an impactful marketing tool for members?

Take Your Social Media to the Next Level Six tips for effectively using social media

Q+A: Ask the Barrier-Free Bathroom Expert Andy Gallio answers common questions about designing a barrier-free bathroom

JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

Digest T H E

Board of Directors EXECUTIVE BOARD

PRESIDENT JAMES JULKOWSKI, Julkowski, Inc. VICE PRESIDENT JOHN QUINLIVAN, Gordon James TREASURER ART PRATT, Pratt Homes ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT SUNNY BOWMAN, Dakota County Lumber Company SECRETARY DALE LOEFFLER, Marvin IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT TODD POLIFKA, Custom One Homes PAST ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT RYAN RUTZICK, All, Inc. BOARD + COMMITTEE CHAIRS ADVOCACY CHAIR TONY WIENER, Cardinal Homebuilders, Inc. AMBASSADOR CHAIR KRISTIN REINITZ, Admit One Home Systems ARTISAN HOME TOUR CHAIR JOHN KRAEMER, John Kraemer & Sons, Inc. LARGE VOLUME BUILDERS CHAIR

JAMIE THARP, Pulte Homes of Minnesota, LLC

PARADE OF HOMES CHAIR SARAH DULONG, Ron Clark Construction PAST PRESIDENT REPRESENTATIVE SHAWN NELSON, New Spaces REMODELERS CHAIR SAMANTHA GROSE, Oak & Arrow Homes SMALL VOLUME BUILDERS CHAIR KIRK VAN SLOOTEN, Streeter Custom Builder MEMBER AT LARGE TIM FOHR, Lennar MEMBER AT LARGE PETER MARTIN, Pella Windows & Doors

ON THE COVER: HOUSING INDUSTRY GATHERS TO SUPPORT THE FOUNDATION AT THE ANNUAL GALA

Staff EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR JAMES VAGLE FINANCE & OPER ATIONS VICE PRESIDENT OF FINANCE JANICE MEYER FINANCE DIRECTOR TAMMI HALL MEMBERSHIP & EVENTS VICE PRESIDENT OF MEMBERSHIP & EVENTS NICOLE COON

BUILDING FUTURES

Housing for Heroes

Learn how your Foundation is working to end veteran homelessness

Helping Our Community Transition to Better Lives Hear from two residents of our Foundation’s community builds

MEMBERSHIP & EVENTS COORDINATOR KIM CARTER EDUCATION & SPECIAL EVENTS DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION & SPECIAL EVENTS TOM GAVARAS EDUCATION & SPECIAL EVENTS COORDINATOR MARY BETH BLOM ADVOCACY DIRECTOR OF LEGISLATIVE & POLITICAL AFFAIRS MARK FOSTER DIRECTOR OF RESEARCH & REGULATORY AFFAIRS NICK ERICKSON COMMUNICATIONS DIRECTOR KATIE ELFSTROM COMMUNICATIONS & RESEARCH COORDINATOR KRISTEN OBER ADVOCACY COORDINATOR KATE WIGLEY

MEMBERS O N LY

Member Spotlight: 2022 Spring Award Winners

Congratulations to the recipients of our Spring Reggie and Trillium Awards

In the Media

Photo Galleries

Kickstart Brews + Business Housing First Minnesota Foundation Gala Artisan Home Tour

New Members & Recruitment

Member Benefits

CREATIVE SERVICES VICE PRESIDENT OF MARKETING & CREATIVE DAWNITA PARMELY EDITOR & GRAPHIC DESIGNER LAURA BURT ADVERTISING & SPONSORSHIP FULFILLMENT COORDINATOR LAURIE SPARTZ CREATIVE SERVICES & TECH COORDINATOR CASEY SCOZZARI DIGITAL GRAPHIC DESIGNER EMILY DOHENY SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR SARAH HINDERMAN FOUNDATION MARKETING & EVENTS MANAGER ERIN MILBURN EVENTS & ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR MELISSA ANDRISANI INDEPENDENT CONTR ACTORS ADVERTISING & SPONSORSHIP SALES KORI MEEWES & BRAD MEEWES, and more by Kori

C O N TAC T U S

2960 Centre Pointe Drive, Roseville, MN 55113 • 651-697-1954 • HousingFirstMN.org The Digest magazine is an official publication of Housing First Minnesota. The Digest is published and distributed four times per year to members of Housing First Minnesota and others associated with the housing industry. Neither the advertisers, nor Housing First Minnesota, will be responsible or liable for misinformation, misprints, typographical errors, etc., herein contained. For advertising rates, resource files or address change information, contact Housing First Minnesota. Suggestions, ideas and letters are welcome. If circumstances require, Housing First Minnesota reserves the right to increase or decrease the number of The Digest issues published on an annual basis.

The Digest

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022

FROM THE PRESIDENT

The Strength of Your Association Spring has been busy for our association and for our industry. The strength of our programs has been on display all season long. Our nation-leading programs in green building, marketing events, industry advocacy, and the charitable work of our Foundation has been outstanding!

Minnesota’s Green Path Program Earth Day was a day to celebrate the quality and performance of the homes constructed by our industry. Our homes rank No. 1 in energy efficiency among major states using the HERS. This accomplishment belongs to our entire industry, including our builders, remodelers, suppliers, and trade partners who help bring safe, durable, and efficient homes to Minnesotans.

Spring Parade of Homes, Remodelers Showcase, and $10K Giveaway

Our Spring Parade of Homes and Remodelers Showcase events connected homeowners with our industry members in another successful tour event. The events featured our new Parade of Homes First-Time Homebuyer $10K Giveaway. The participation in the new contest was exceptional, and we awarded four $10K grants to first-time homebuyers. We thank our generous donors and look forward to following our winners on their homeownership journey!

Industry Advocacy

This spring kept our advocacy team busy at the Capitol defending our industry against new affordability roadblocks. We were successful in halting new impact fees, expansion of park fees, and a host of energy-related mandates that were proposed as requirements outside of the traditional code process. Industry defense often occurs below the radar, but it’s vitally important for our industry

to halt these ideas before they become law. The legislature also advanced zoning modernization proposals to the final stages of the legislative process. Housing First Minnesota was a leading advocate for these changes, which would have lifted some of the major roadblocks impacting our market’s supply of affordably priced homes. While these provisions got stalled out in the final collapse of the major budget bills, we are pleased at the growing coalition that has joined our efforts to modernize how we approve housing in Minnesota.

Foundation Gala Success

Many of you attended and supported our Foundation Gala in late May—what a great night! Most importantly, through industry generosity we raised money that will help our Foundation continue its incredible work to address homelessness in Minnesota.

Looking Ahead

Our busy spring is leading into an equally busy summer for Housing First Minnesota. Our Artisan Home Tour kicked off our summer activities, and we look forward to our annual Golf outing and chances to connect with our fellow industry members. We are also engaged in the 2022 elections, where the entire legislature and governor will be on the ballot in the fall. Housing will be a major issue for our elected officials to address and we will be working with candidates to identify housing champions who support our industry. And before we know it, it will be time for the Fall Parade of Homes and Remodelers Showcase! I want to thank all Housing First Minnesota members for their support of our association and our programs. We are truly a big tent and the great start to 2022 is a result of all of us pulling together as an industry!

JAMES JULKOWSKI 2022 HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA PRESIDENT

JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

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Challenges are growing and concerns are increasing, according to the Minneapolis Fed’s most recent survey of construction firms. Residential construction reported more pain points, including more delays and more cancellations. The survey of construction organizations in the Fed’s Ninth District takes a deep dive into business conditions for the construction sector. The biggest challenges reported were supply chain disruptions, labor availability, and material costs. According to the Fed, three out of four respondents said they have moderate to extreme difficulty getting critical suppliers for their operation. When it comes to project delays, the number of construction firms reporting an increase in delays climbed to 67% of the survey. According to the Fed, it is now more unusual to not encounter delays during a project. Cancellations and delays in all sectors of construction increased, according to the most recent survey. Residential construction reported the largest increases in cancellations and delays, with nearly 50% of residential construction respondents reporting and increase in cancellations and just under 75% of residential construction respondents reporting an increase in delays.

The Digest

PROJECT CANCELLATIONS & DELAYS

Increased significantly Increased somewhat No change Decreased somewhat Decreased significantly

CONSTRUCTION SECTOR CONDITIONS: MINNEAPOLIS FED SURVEY, SPRING 2022

SUPPLY CHAIN: ABILITY TO BUY AND RECEIVE CRITICAL SUPPLIES FOR YOUR OPERATIONS IN A TIMELY FASHION No difficulty (6.3%) Slightly difficult (19.29%) Moderately difficult (35.43%) Very difficult (29.13%) Extremely difficult (9.84%)

CONSTRUCTION SECTOR CONDITIONS: MINNEAPOLIS FED SURVEY, SPRING 2022

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022

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BUSINESS TIPS

I NEED A PERMIT FOR WHAT? NAVIGATING THE MYSTERIOUS WATERS OF BUILDING PERMITS THROUGH PRACTICAL GUIDANCE by Greg Karow of Code Educational Opportunities and Contractor University

I have been working in the building code arena for some 30 years as a building inspector, plans examiner, building official, and rounding out my career as a building code instructor. In all these years, there has been a common thread I’ve heard time and time again: “I absolutely hate having to go through the time and hassle getting a building permit.” This sentiment is shared by both homeowners and some contractors alike. Why has this become so difficult? When I became a building official I sought simplicity in the process not only for the customer but also for the office environment. My intent here is to provide some insight and suggestions to assist in making this a more efficient process. First, who says I need a permit? The administration chapter of the Minnesota State Building Code establishes parameters for code application.

1300.0030 Purpose and Application The state building code is the standard that applies statewide for the construction, reconstruction, alteration, and repair of buildings and other structures of the type governed by the code. The state building code supersedes the building code of any municipality. In essence, permits are required by law. There is only one building code: the state building code. A municipality cannot be more nor less restrictive than the state building code and furthermore the code is the minimum standard for construction and is mandated

statewide. The standard is set, but the code is not required to be enforced statewide. So now consider if you’re going to get a permit or run the risk of not getting one. Whatever choice is made to do anything there has to be value established to go forward with your choice. But be aware, permits are required under Minnesota state law. That brings up the questions: Is there any real value in getting a permit and inspections? If I pay for it, what do I get for my money? What’s in it for me? These are fair and appropriate questions.

JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

BUSINESS TIPS

WHAT A PERMIT IS NOT. •

•

Permits shall not be any type of guarantee or warranty of the project under consideration.

1300.0030 PURPOSE AND APPLICATION Subpart The purpose of this code is to establish minimum requirements to safeguard the public health, safety, and general welfare through structural strength. The code is intended to provide that minimum standard for public safety. Permits and inspections are a system of checks and balances to verify code compliance and procedures to mandate that corrections are made as needed. Permit records are public information. If the permit history does not include records of known work that was done without a permit, the owner or whoever did the work may still require to attain the proper permits, even if the project is complete. One of the most tangible reasons that there is value is when a property is bought or sold that a paper trail exists to quantify projects were completed and passed all required inspections. Yes, there is value. So let’s look at taking some pain out of the process.

If there are any zoning requirements, be sure to include them with the application.

•

One of the biggest errors my colleagues and I have encountered over the years has been unsigned applications. This is a legal document and cannot be issued without the applicant’s signature. If your signature is not legible, print your name adjacent to the signature.

•

Include any other documents that are required or items that may provide additional information to expedite the process.

•

If plans are required …DON’T FREAK OUT! Depending on the scope of the project, the amount of detail will vary based on the complexity of the job. A good rule of thumb is to provide enough detail and information so that whoever is reviewing it could build it from your submittals. This could be done with a simple sketch on a piece of paper with a list of specifications. Be sure to make it legible. Don’t assume that the reviewer knows what’s going to happen with your project.

Permits presuming to give authority to violate or cancel the provisions of the code or other ordinances of the jurisdiction are not valid. (MN rule 1320.0100 sp 10).

The text below is from the code and explains the intent:

•

Fill out the permit application complete the first time. If there is a portion that is not applicable to your project, fill it in with N/A in the space. The Digest

One of the biggest setbacks for plan review process has been the lack of structural information. Sizing of beam headers, footing and foundation, point loads, etc. must be on the submittal plans. I’ve seen the note, “beam by others” — who are others? — or “foundation per code” countless times. This will get your plans rejected every time. Be prepared to substantiate your methodology for structural components. In other words, don’t guess. There are resources available to assist with this including the building inspector. Speaking of the building inspector, for the most part, the level of

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022

professionalism has been raised substantially over the years. However, there is a small percentage that can be somewhat challenging to work with. Whatever the case, be cordial and respectful of the individual. They may turn out to be more of an asset than an adversary. If on-site consultation is needed, MN Rule 1300.0110 subpart 3 states, “When requested by a permit applicant, the building official shall meet with the permit applicant prior to the application for a construction permit to discuss plans for the proposed work. The meeting shall be held at a mutually agreeable location. Municipalities may establish a fee for this service.” Right now, the construction industry is facing the same issues as the rest of the country: shortage of adequate staff. If you request this service, you may have to wait for a time. The point is the building department cannot refuse to do this. The code is clear about this requirement. Permits have been and will continue to be a part of the construction industry. Whether you’re an individual or a contractor, be prepared before you submit the application. The information is out there, sometimes you have to dig for it. See you next time, and remember “build it on the bubble.” - Greg “the codetalker” Karow FOR A MORE IN-DEPTH ANALYSIS, CHECK OUT GREG’S TWO-HOUR COURSE “NAVIGATING THE PERMIT PROCESS” AVAILABLE THROUGH CONTRACTOR UNIVERSITY.

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BUSINESS TIPS

The Power of Home Tours The Parade of Homes, Remodelers Showcase, and Artisan Home Tour are long-standing traditions for many Minnesotans and have consistently been important tools for builders, remodelers, and suppliers to reach new clients. So, what makes home tours such a powerful marketing tool for members?

JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

BUSINESS TIPS

Home tours give builders and remodelers the opportunity to reach consumers directly and advertise their work, all while the public can see what’s on the market in new home construction and the latest in remodeling. They also serve as the perfect vehicle to showcase new products, technology, and features to homeowners and buyers. “The Parade of Homes is by far one of the strongest sales and marketing tools for us,” shared Kate Hamilton of Custom One Homes following the spring tour. “The opportunity to feature our homes and share our process with several hundred people within four to five weeks is powerful.” Housing First Minnesota puts on the Parade of Homes and Remodelers Showcase twice each year. This spring’s tour featured more than 340 new homes and 40 remodeled homes over five weekends. Following the spring event, 100% of builder survey respondents reported the success of the Spring Parade of Homes as Excellent or Good. “The Parade of Homes historically is the best marketing event a homebuilder or remodeler can do each year,” said David Frosch of Kootenia Homes. “I highly recommend every member company enter the tour each and every year.”

TIPS TO MAKE THE MOST OF THE TOURS

Many consumers come out to see the homes on the tour because they intend to build or remodel within the next year. Others may be gathering ideas or aren’t quite ready to move yet, but they are establishing relationships through repeat visits to builders’ homes on the tour. “It is fun to see familiar faces come back to our homes and hear about the long tradition the Parade of Homes has been for friends and families!” said Hamilton. Tours often catapult consumers to act on their projects, and they help them narrow down who they decide to work with. For remodelers, the opportunity to showcase real projects and connect with new clients in person has an unmatched impact. “Having visitors seeing real-life examples of what can be done to houses similar to their own homes sparks authentic interest,” said Deanne Beaudet of AMEK, Inc.

Upcoming Home Tours 2022 Fall Parade of Homes: Sept. 10-Oct. 2, 2022 2022 Fall Remodelers Showcase: Sept. 30-Oct. 2, 2022 2023 Spring Parade of Homes: March 4-April 2, 2023

The Digest

2023 Spring Remodelers Showcase: March 31-April 2, 2023 2023 Artisan Home Tour : June 9-25, 2023

2 3

Visit HousingFirstMN.org for details

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022

Pitch Your Story Housing First Minnesota’s home tour guidebooks feature editorial stories that range from design trends to homebuying tips to homebuyer stories. Have a unique story to tell? Pitch it! By participating in editorial pieces, you help establish your brand authority and can give consumers a look at what it’s like to work with your team.

Content is planned months in advance, so be thinking ahead. Along with clear, descriptive details on what makes your story unique, don’t forget to include images! Providing images allows us to visually interpret how the story might fit in with the rest of the content mix. Contact Laura@ HousingFirstMN.org for more information.

Add On Marketing Options Grow your audience and connect with your customers through email, social media, and blog advertising options! From sponsored blog posts and advertorials within

the guidebook to social media takeovers and email partnerships, there are options to fit any budget and can enhance your efforts marketing your homes on the tour.

Submit Photos for Social Pique the interest of tour-goers and convince them to stop by your home through alluring photos. If you have photographer permission, send your photos to Housing First

Minnesota to share on social. It’s a great way to get even more potential free promotion of your homes. Contact Sarah@ HousingFirstMN.org for more information.

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BUSINESS TIPS

6 Tips to Take Your Social Media to the Next Level with Sarah Hinderman, Social Media Coordinator at Housing First Minnesota

Social media has changed the way that consumers and businesses interact with customers and new leads. You can reach new audiences, increase brand awareness, drive traffic to your site, and connect with potential leads. Now is the moment to make sure your website and social profiles are reaching the next generation and communicating your company’s value effectively. Are you leveraging social media for your business? Here are six tips to ensure you are effectively using social as a part of your marketing strategy.

The Digest

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022

BUSINESS TIPS

1 2 3 4 5 6

Solidify your brand identity This includes design elements like colors, fonts, and logos as well as tone of voice. Make sure social posts are consistent, align with your brand standards, and reflect your company’s unique personality.

Find the right platforms to engage your audience Find out where your target audience spends the most time online. Whether you’re just focusing on Facebook and Instagram or trying out creative video content on TikTok, make sure you’re investing the most time into the channels that make sense for your business. •

LinkedIn is a more formal platform—great for business-to-business activity.

•

Facebook and Instagram are photo- and video-centered tools that can help you reach and connect with customers.

•

Twitter is a text-based platform most helpful for reaching the media and policy influencers.

•

TikTok is a creative video app and a great way to reach younger generations while creating some fun and engaging content.

Interact with your followers and respond to messages Use social media as a tool to interact with your followers and potential customers. Liking, commenting, or replying to relevant posts keeps you engaged with your audience and your finger on the pulse of what they’re up to. It’s also important to make time for responding to comments and complaints.

Share what goes on behind the scenes While finished homes, styled rooms, and product photos are great for showcasing your business’s potential, we’ve found that candid posts do wonders for engagement. Let your followers see what the day-to-day is like at your business or put the faces of your team members in front of the camera!

Drive traffic to your website or office Leverage captions as a tool to prompt action from your followers. Include call-to-actions (like “Sign up for our e-newsletter!” or “Visit our showroom for more information”) and add links (to your blog, website, or specific landing pages) whenever possible.

Leverage Housing First Minnesota If you are in the Parade of Homes, Remodelers Showcase, or Artisan Home Tour, submit your home photos to be featured on our official Parade of Homes accounts. For events and awards, we typically post blog announcements and send you personalized social graphics to share on your own channels. Plus, you can always tag Housing First Minnesota in your posts and stories and add #HousingFirstMN to bring more traffic to your page. HAVE SOCIAL MEDIA QUESTIONS OR WANT TO CONNECT? REACH OUT TO SARAH HINDERMAN AT

Sarah@HousingFirstMN.org JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

Want to learn more? For a more detailed look at designing for an aging population, check out Andy’s “Building Barrier-Free Bathrooms” course available through Contractor University.

ContractorU.com

Ask the

Barrier-Free Bathroom Design Specialist with Andy Gallio, Schluter-Systems North America and Contractor University

What are some of the most common challenges you come across related to waterproofing a barrier-free bathroom?

What is the distinction between designing a curbless shower and a barrier-free shower for a client?

free bathrooms in residential construction?

When building a curbless shower the biggest challenge is ensuring a proper slope to the drain to contain the water. Generally, there are three approaches one can take. Either recessing the shower base in the floor, building up the surrounding bathroom floor to the height of the shower base, or creating a ramp into the shower. Once we determine our approach for creating a flush entrance, waterproofing is the next consideration. As a rule, topically applied waterproofing methods both inside and outside the shower enclosure are the only reliable way to prevent potentially costly failures.

A curbless shower simply means a shower without a curb. A barrierfree shower is one that is compliant with ADA standards for accessibility. These requirements consider reach tolerances, dimensions of the shower, seating, placement of grab bars, etc. Basically, a barrier-free shower is one that’s free of any barrier or impediment that could prevent its use by someone with a disability.

prominent in the construction industry

The Digest

What kind of demand have you seen in requests for ADA-compliant, barrier-

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022

There is a currently a strong demand for curbless showers. Aging-in-place conversations have become very and are a key driver of this demand. Statistics show that the percentage of population above 65 years is growing at a rapid rate. Many people are modifying their homes to avoid transitioning to costly assisted living arrangements. At the same time, we see growing demand for curbless across all age groups because, quite simply, it’s a nice design feature. For example, opening up the bathroom can make them appear larger and minimalist which is the current trend. There are some very creative and beautiful showers going in out there!

Q+A

When designing a barrier-free shower for a client, what kind of specialized waterproofing is needed, and where is continuous waterproofing required? Because the absence of a curb blurs the line between the so-called wet and dry areas of a bathroom, waterproofing needs to be extended beyond the entry to the shower by a minimum of 12 inches. This requirement is intended to protect the “dry” area of the bathroom from moisture damage resulting from splash and drip-off water. Many of the traditional materials used to construct tiled showers (e.g. pan liners, two-stage clamping ring drains, etc.) cannot provide reliable waterproofing in a curbless environment as they are designed for use with a curb. Fortunately advances in technology in the form of topically applied sheet

membranes, bonding flange drains, and uncoupling membranes allow for reliable waterproofing that will keep the entire bathroom waterproof and vapor tight.

What are some ways barrier-free bathroom environments can be customized while maintaining adherence to ADA standards? The ADA defines clear requirements for seating in a barrier-free shower. Shower seats and benches can be custom designed to adhere to these requirements while enhancing the

overall aesthetic of the shower. Moreover, tiled benches can be easier to clean than folding style seats with hinges. Adding niches inside the shower provide convenient storage for shampoos and soap and can be positioned in accordance with the reach tolerances defined by the ADA. Customized cantilevered vanities are another key element of a barrier-free bathroom as they create the knee space required for wheelchair access. These vanities can be easily constructed using foam building panels and can be both functional and design forward.

About the Expert: Andy Gallio With more than 25 years of experience in the construction industry, Andy Gallio provides instruction to installers as well as architects on the proper usage of the materials necessary in the tile industry at Schluter’s workshops and online training events. He started out in the residential homebuilding trade as a framer and concrete placer. He has had specific training in the field of concrete specification and testing as well as Computer Aided Design (CAD). His experience in all aspects of construction advanced him to a position of writing and implementing scopes of work for subcontractors.

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The Digest

BUILDING FUTURES

The Digest

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022

BUILDING FUTURES

Housing for Heroes: Two Transitional Homes + ADU Open for Veterans On any given night, more than 270 veterans in Minnesota don’t have a place to call home. To help in the fight to end homelessness, the Housing First Minnesota Foundation, Lennar Minnesota, and the Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans (MACV) came together to construct two transitional housing residences to serve veterans who are without a home. Two vacant North Minneapolis lots are now the sites of two fourbedroom, two-story residences. One home includes an accessory dwelling

unit (ADU) that will help provide much-needed additional housing for veterans who are without shelter. On June 14, the Foundation kicked off the day with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the two completed North Minneapolis homes and ADU. In the afternoon, it broke ground on its biggest community partnership to date—four Housing for Heroes homes accompanied by four ADUs to be constructed by the end of the year. This latest project will add 20 more beds for the Housing for Heroes build projects.

WANT TO HELP? We are always looking for build partners! Please contact the Foundation for more information. Foundation@HousingFirstMN.org

JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

BUILDING FUTURES

Helping Our Community Transition to Better Lives

Following a severe injury, Kayla, a veteran and mother of four, found herself facing homelessness—until she found the courage to ask for help. “I found myself in a whirlpool—like things were so bad I just couldn’t believe it,” Kayla said. “I couldn’t believe I was in this position.” That’s when Kayla connected with the Minnesota Assistance Council of Veterans (MACV), one of the service organizations the Housing First Minnesota

Foundation partners with to create transitional housing solutions. MACV provides housing, employment, and legal services to veterans and their families who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless across the state of Minnesota. Kayla is not alone in her need for transitional housing and supportive services.

I was at rock bottom completely. I just have so much more hope in my life, and I just enjoy life. I’m glad to be sober. I’m glad to be here.” BIANCA

The Digest

“I was homeless, and I was living in the streets. I found out that I was pregnant, and I came here because I knew it was a family program and they help women and kids,” said Bianca. “I was at rock bottom completely. I just have so much more hope in my life, and I just enjoy life. I’m glad to be sober. I’m glad to be here.” For organizations like Avivo and MACV to do the important work that they do, they need homes and dignified spaces for these families to live to get back on their feet. The Foundation and its community build partners

AVIVO RESIDENT

Bianca came to Avivo, a nonprofit that houses and supports women while they undergo recovery. Avivo is one of a few chemical abuse treatment facilities in Minnesota that offers programming to women with children and allows the child to live on the premises while the mother receives support and undergoes treatment.

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022

are proud to help. With partners including builders, remodelers, and their trade partners, the Foundation is uniquely positioned to help these service organizations and has now constructed seven homes for MACV and remodeled 15 apartments for Avivo. The result? More homes for those in need in our community. For Bianca and others, the work done by the Foundation means so much. “Without them, this wouldn’t be possible,” Bianca said. “It is such a nice environment for us to really grow.”

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

2022 Spring

Award Winners Congratulations to the recipients of our Spring Reggie and Trillium Awards!

Reggie winners are selected by judging teams of builders and remodelers who visit homes within each category and judge based on excellence in design, construction quality, and value.

Trillium Awards are presented to all entered participating associates in a Reggie-winning home.

Since 1968, the coveted Reggie Award℠ has recognized excellence in design and construction of homes in the Parade of Homes. The Trillium Awards honor the associates and trade partners for their collaboration with these award-winning builders. This spring, there were 19 Parade Homes from 15 different builders awarded Reggies, along with 11 partnering companies that have been presented Trillium Awards.

$300,000 TO $399,999

$450,000 TO $499,999

#135 | Cambridge | Builds 50+ Homes/Year Trillium Partners: Schwieters Cabinetry; Schwieters Companies, Inc.

#136 | North Branch | Builds 1-49 Homes/Year Trillium Partners: Andersen Windows; Croix Design & Drafting, Inc.

Price Custom Homes

The Digest

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022

Elevate Builders, Inc.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

$450,000 TO $499,999

Benzinger Homes #104 | St. Michael | Builds 50+ Homes/Year Trillium Partners: FocalPoint Flooring, Cabinets & Design; Pella Windows & Doors; Schwieters Companies, Inc.

$500,000 TO $549,999

Robert Thomas Homes, Inc. #16 | Chaska | Builds 50+ Homes/Year Trillium Partner: Contract Interiors, Inc.

$550,000 TO $599,999

Christian Builders & Remodelers #124 | Elk River | Builds 1-49 Homes/Year Trillium Partner: Warners’ Stellian Appliance

$550,000 TO $599,999

Hanson Builders, Inc. #196 | Lake Elmo | Builds 50+ Homes/Year

$600,000 TO $699,999

Ovation Homes, LLC #190 | Roseville | Builds 1-49 Homes/Year

$600,000 TO $699,999

Michael Lee Homes #197 | Lake Elmo | Builds 50+ Homes/Year Trillium Partners: Contract Interiors, Inc.; Pella Windows & Doors; Schwieters Cabinetry; Schwieters Companies, Inc.

JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

$700,000 TO $799,999

Paulson Construction, Inc. #165 | Blaine | Builds 1-49 Homes/Year Trillium Partners: FocalPoint Flooring, Cabinets & Design; Warners’ Stellian Appliance

$800,000 TO $899,999

Robert Thomas Homes, Inc. #225 | Woodbury | Builds 50+ Homes/Year Trillium Partners: Contract Interiors, Inc.; Schwieters Companies, Inc.

$700,000 TO $799,999

$900,000 TO $999,999

#222 | Woodbury | Builds 50+ Homes/Year Trillium Partners: Contract Interiors, Inc.; FocalPoint Flooring, Cabinets & Design; MCI Paint & Drywall

#324 | Prior Lake | Builds 1-49 Homes/Year Trillium Partners: Andersen Windows; FocalPoint Flooring, Cabinets & Design; River City Tile & Underlayment

Stonegate Builders

Cuddigan Custom Builders, LLC

$900,000 TO $999,999 $800,000 TO $899,999

Norton Homes, LLC #8 | Eden Prairie | Builds 1-49 Homes/Year

The Digest

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022

Robert Thomas Homes, Inc. #198 | Lake Elmo | Builds 50+ Homes/Year Trillium Partners: Andersen Windows; Contract Interiors, Inc.; David Charlez Designs

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

$1 MILLION UP TO $1.2 MILLION

$1.5 MILLION UP TO $2 MILLION

#291 | Lakeville | Builds 50+ Homes/Year Trillium Partner: Contract Interiors, Inc.

#64 | Maple Grove | Builds 1-49 Homes/Year Trillium Partner: Andersen Windows

$1.2 MILLION UP TO $1.5 MILLION

$1.5 MILLION UP TO $2 MILLION

#255 | Eagan | Builds 1-49 Homes/Year Trillium Partners: Andersen Windows; Contract Interiors, Inc.; David Charlez Designs

#9 | Chanhassen | Builds 50+ Homes/Year Trillium Partners: Andersen Windows; Contract Interiors, Inc.; FocalPoint Flooring, Cabinets & Design

Robert Thomas Homes, Inc.

Custom One Homes

Swanson Homes

Gonyea Custom Homes

Don’t Miss the Fall Award Deadlines! LEARN MORE AT HOUSINGFIRSTMN.ORG/AWARDS $1.2 MILLION UP TO $1.5 MILLION

Robert Thomas Homes, Inc. #326 | Prior Lake | Builds 50+ Homes/Year Trillium Partners: Contract Interiors, Inc.; David Charlez Designs

JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

SEEN + HEARD

Media in the

From the Foundation Gala to the spring award winners, check out some of the places Housing First Minnesota and its members have been mentioned on social and in the press this past quarter.

@HOUSINGFIRSTMN

Foundation Gala

Brews + Business

The annual Foundation Gala was filled with positive energy as the industry came together to make a lasting impact on the lives of those in need. It was a night of food, fun, and Hollywood glam!

Our latest event series kicked off with Jerry Olson from The Resultants hosting a seminar at Housing First Minnesota.

@kooteniahomes

Jerry Olson

Twin Cities Real Producers Realtor Choice Awards Twin Cities Real Producers hosted its annual Realtor Choice Awards with proceeds from the event benefiting the Housing First Minnesota Foundation.

@bradmfox

Lynne Jensen-Nelson

Spring Awards Spring award winners showcased their trophies on social.

@cheath_r_

Housing Data Permit data released by Housing First Minnesota is featured in the Star Tribune.

Homebuilding fell slightly during March in the Twin Cities

@swansonhomes

The Digest

@davidcharlezdesigns

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022

April was best on record for home builders in the Twin Cities area

the Professional Contractor

quality building materials available. Check us out online at abcsupply.com or visit us in:

St Paul - Minneapolis - Coon Rapids - Savage - Maple Plain - Roseville - St Cloud - Rochester - Oronoco - Mankato ABC Supply is the largest wholesale distributor of roofing in the

United States and one of the largest distributors of siding, windows, and select exterior and interior products. Founded in 1982, ABC currently has more than 760 locations nationwide. Specializing in select product lines and categories, ABC offers the professional contractor competitive pricing, superior service, and the highest quality building materials available.

Trust Mike Hoppe, Josh Dalki and Larry Larson with your Construction Insurance. Check us out online at abcsupply.com or visit us in:

St Paul - Minneapolis - Coon Rapids - Savage - Maple Plain - Roseville - St Cloud - Rochester - Oronoco - Mankato

Lower your insurance costs while better protecting your assets. Contact Mike, Josh or Larry today or scan the QR code to learn more about special programs for association members.

mhoppe@corporatefour.com jdalki@corporatefour.com llarson@corporatefour.com www.corporatefour.com | 952.893.9218

APRIL–JUNE 2021 | HOUSING FIRST M

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APRIL–JUNE 2021 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

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3/25/21 12:14 PM

We specialize in:

THE MINNESOTA MULCH LOG

• Rough Cut Mowing • Silt Fence Installation • Hydro Seeding • Seed and Mulch • Tree and Safety Fence • Inlet Protection • Erosion Blanket

It is a 10” geotextile fabric sewn together and filled with recycled wood product. It’s reusable and can be easily moved to another location. The Minnesota Mulch Log is a very effective perimeter control device and is more aesthetically pleasing providing a great alternative to silt fence.

Exceptional Service. Always. 763-262-SILT (7458)

• Reusable • Low Maintenance • Ditch Checks • Cost Effective

• Inlet Protection • Perimeter Control • Easy to Install • Self Anchoring

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE WWW.EROSIONWORKS.NET JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

SEEN + HEARD

KickStart + Happy Hour Members old and new gathered at Housing First Minnesota for KickStart + Happy Hour, an event built to help you make the most out of your membership and network with other industry peers.

April 12, 2022 | June 7, 2022

The Digest

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022

Brews + Business Members gathered at our latest happy hour events designed to bring your business to the next level. Offering powerful resources and tips alongside the opportunity to make valuable connections!

Leading & Managing Up, Down, & Sideways | April 21, 2022 Housing Action at the Capitol: Legislative Wrap-Up and Elections Preview | June 1, 2022 JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022 | HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA

The Digest

Foundation Gala It was a night of generosity and celebration at the Housing First Minnesota Foundation Gala! Close to 400 builders, remodelers, trade partners, and supporters joined together to support the Foundation’s vision to end homelessness in Minnesota. With your generous giving, we exceeded our fundraising goal to a record amount of more than $315,000! Funds will go toward our work building and renovating housing for Minnesotans experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless.

May 20, 2022 46

The Digest

HOUSING FIRST MINNESOTA | JULY–SEPTEMBER 2022

CO-PRESENTING SPONSORS

7TH ANNUAL

F R I D AY, M AY 2 0 , 2 0 2 2

$315,000+ RAISED AT THE GALA

390

TICKETS SOLD

BUILD PARTNER AWARDS

HEARTS IN HOUSING AWARD WINNER

DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD WINNER

The Digest | Jul-Sep 2022

Articles inside

I Need a Permit For What?

Leadership Update

Advocacy in Action

From the President

Events

Need to Know