Gas Line Extension applications without allowances, refunds and discounts will continue to be accepted after July 1, 2023.
The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has issued an order that will eliminate the allowances (credits) that SoCalGas is currently authorized to provide to residential and non-residential new construction builders effective July 1, 2023.
Accordingly, the 10-Year Refundable Payment Option and the 50 Percent Discount Option for allowances will also be eliminated effective July 1, 2023.
The CPUC established an exception for unique non-residential projects that meet specific criteria and follow a certain application process.
SoCalGas is committed to working with its builder customers to provide assistance with meeting the deadline for new projects.
For more information about applications, rebate programs that are available, and the non-residential exception, please visit: socalgas.com/allowances
SoCalGas continues to play a key role in California’s clean energy transition, providing reliable, affordable and resilient energy to its customers while developing renewable natural gas, renewable hydrogen, and energy efficiency options to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
© 2022 Southern California Gas Company. Trademarks are property of their respective owners. All rights Reserved. N22J226A 111722
Governing Board 4
Dave Bartlett BIASC Chairman Message 5
In Memory Tribute - Michael Burke Trotta 6 Jeff Montejano BIASC CEO Message 7
Building Industry Show 2023 8
Craig Foster BIASC Letter From The Editor 9
BIASC Announces Baldy View Chapter as San Bernardino County Chapter 13
Recap: BIASC Evening With President George W. Bush 15-17
In Memory Tribute - Nicole Yvonne Dubois 18 Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion 19
Special Edition: Float Decorating Volunteers 20-21
Special Edition: BIASC Celebrating 100 Years Gear 23
Special Edition: BIASC Team Behind-The-Scenes Tour 24-25
Special Edition: Building For The Future 29-33
Special Edition: Meet The 2023 Royal Court 35
Special Edition: 100 Years of Advocacy & Networking 36-39
Special Edition: Event Recap: BIASC VIP College Football Game Day Experience 41-43
Leonard Miller Industry Trailblazer Nomination For Renowned California Homebuilding Foundation Hall Of Fame 45
2022 Events Wrap Up 47-57
BIA Los Angeles/Ventura Chapter Board Of Directors 58
Recap: 2023 BIA Los Angeles/Ventura Chapter Installation 59
BIA Orange County Chapter Board Of Directors 60
Recap: 2023 BIA Orange County Chapter Installation 61-62
BIA Riverside Country Chapter Board Of Directors 64
Recap: 2023 BIA Riverside Chapter Installation 63-65
BIA San Bernardino County Chapter Board Of Directors 66
Recap: 2023 BIA San Bernardino Chapter Installation 67-69
BIASC Meet Your Team 70
Save the Date 100 Year Events 71
Q&A with BIASC Governing Board Councils Representative Valerie Hardman 73-75
Renewing Members 74
GSMC 2023 Board Of Directors 76
Women In Leadership 77 Council On SAGE Update 78-79
NextGen Update 80-81
Fond Farewell To BIA Riverside County Chapter House 82-83
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA BUILDER is a copyrighted publication produced by the Building Association of Southern California. Advertising and editorial inquiries and materials should be emailed to: kdistefano@biasc.org. All publication rights are fully reserved.
2022 BIASC Chairman
VP, Land Entitlement, Land & Housing Development, Brookfield Residential
As we approach the end of another year with the BIA, we are reminded of how fortunate we all are to be involved in this industry that delivers new homes and new communities. Home ownership is at the heart of the American Dream for almost everyone. Making that dream become real is where we come in, and it’s a truly gratifying experience. Education and home ownership are often associated as the foundation for the American Dream. The American Dream was coined by James Truslow Adams in his best-selling book in 1931 titled The Epic of America, where he described it in which “life should be better and richer and fuller for everyone, with opportunity for each according to ability or achievement.” We are truly blessed to be a part of this industry that means so much to the American people.
I would like to thank our builders, our associates, our trade contractors, and our government agency partners for our 2022 voyage together. Our collective accomplishments, efforts, and our continued resilience in the face of market adjustments and headwinds is what makes our business so very interesting and challenging. Currently, sales are down and interest rates are up, with the market adjusting so very quickly in the second half of the year. It’s probably the quickest turn in the market I’ve seen in my career. Unfortunately, as we look into 2023, our signs of optimism are more murky than clear. The year ahead will be bumpy, but I can guarantee this: The American Dream will still be there, and, collectively, we will still be delivering it with the BIASC helping us achieve our goals. Onward!
Dave Bartlett
BIASC Chair
Brookfield Residential
It is with deep sorrow that we share the announcement that Mike Trotta, Chief Executive Officer of LSA, passed away suddenly on Sunday, December 4, 2022.
LSA first joined the BIASC in 1984, and Mike joined in 1996 and has supported BIASC all the way. During his tenure, Mike’s expertise in resource agency permitting, biological assessments, ecological restoration, and project management supported many complex projects for SCE, SDG&E, SANDAG, the Metropolitan Water District, Kaiser Permanente, and cities and counties throughout Southern California.
Mike set a goal for himself in 2022 to connect with each and every employee through a “CEO Connect” program of his own devising He knew that employee-owners are LSA’s greatest asset, which is why the program was so important to him He also helped create LSA’s first Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee, of which he was extremely proud
We express our deepest condolences to his family during this difficult time Michael was deeply loved and respected, and will forever be in our hearts
The definition of GRIT is to have the determination and courage to push through any challenge or obstacle thrown your way until you succeed. This year, with the help of our members, our organization made a positive difference in our building industry and the communities we serve.
While California’s burdensome regulatory environment has played a significant role in suppressing new home construction, our local government advocacy efforts have made significant differences to help streamline new housing project approvals. These victories are a true testament to our members’ growing participation and resiliency.
We also hosted unforgettable events including our historic Special Keynote Evening Honoring Veterans which spotlighted our first US President, Veterans, a Medal of Honor Recipient, and the Rose Parade® Royal Court, all to support underserved communities as part of our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiative. Our four chapters’ passion and support for these new programs are the most I’ve ever witnessed in my tenure, which helped validate our organization’s efforts to embrace change and inclusiveness within our industry.
To help commemorate BIASC’s 100th anniversary in 2023, BIASC will feature its “Building for the Future” float in the year’s Tournament of Roses 2023 Rose Parade® presented by Honda. Created through our Junior Builders program, BIASC’s float will focus on honoring our past, present, and future communities while featuring a first-of-itskind hydrogen-powered demonstration home by SoCalGas. All members and families are welcome to volunteer for decorating week starting December 27. Thank you, members, for an amazing and memorable year. As we prepare for 2023, our organization will continue to protect and grow our members’ businesses, no matter the challenges or obstacles next year might bring us. We are capable, we are determined, and we are ready.
From our “home” to yours, we wish you and your loved ones a safe and joyous holiday season.
Jeff Montejano Chief Executive Officer Building Industry Association of Southern California
“When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” We’re told that this phrase has been traced back to 1953, when John Thomas – unsurprisingly, a football coach – said it to a newspaper reporter. It also nicely sums up BIASC’s 2022. With interest rate spikes and supply chain issues adding to the usual challenges from over-regulation, high fees, and pervasive NIMBY sentiments, the going did indeed get tough this year and BIASC responded by playing its A Game.
Most impressive was the floundering of the Perfect Storm threats, thanks to the active engagement of hundreds of BIA members and their employees who generated more than 20,000 emails through our digital advocacy program. SCAG’s Southern California Greenprint, which would have exposed new development to anti-growth litigation, is now on hold pending a comprehensive re-write to address industry concerns. The State Water Resources Control Board substantially rewrote the Construction General Permit for Stormwater in response to a flood of pressure from the industry. SB 12, which would have used the threat of wildfires to strangle new development, died in committee, as did AB 2840, which would have stopped most mixed-use housing development in the Inland Empire.
On the local front, NIMBYs suffered many defeats at the hands of organized project support from BIA members. The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors approved La Subida (52 units) and Glenelder (84 units); Moorpark approved 755 new units in the Hitch Ranch masterplan, and more than two dozen other projects proposed by BIA members moved forward with the Association’s support. Onerous fee increases were defeated, including two proposed in the fast-growing cities of Menifee (saving $465 per unit) and Ontario (saving approximately $2,000 per unit).
While BIASC’s powerful advocacy machine – our “battleship”– was under full steam in 2022, our “cruise
Craig Foster Chief Operating Officer/ Executive Vice President
ship” was keeping pace. Our Economic Outlook Dinner at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library gave several hundred of us powerful insights from industry leaders along with all the fascinating history of the Reagan era; and when it came time to let our hair down (or tease it up!) we had Sammy Hagar and The Circle – with special guest guitarist BIA’s own Tom Grable – melting the rafters at the House of Blues in Anaheim to kick off one of the most successful BIS shows in years.
What could top that? How about a U.S. President? President George W. Bush dropped by the Beverly Wilshire, flanked by Special Guest Speaker Medal of Honor recipient U.S. Army Staff Sargent (retired) David Bellavia. Both gave inspiring talks and lent their support to the launch of BIASC’s new Builders for Better Communities Foundation and its efforts to provide better housing options for veterans.
Not to repeat myself, but what could top that? How about kicking off 2023 and BIASC’s Centennial Year with our very own BIASC Rose Parade® float, sponsored by The Southern California Gas Company. We hope you take part in celebration as we are still welcoming float sponsors and need lots of busy fingers to glue all those petals, stems and seeds onto our float.
Already on the calendar for 2023 is a great location for the 2023 Building Industry Show (BIS) – San Diego! – and a combined All-Chapter Installation Gala in the Fall. I can’t say much about that yet, but just make sure your western gear is in good order.
We all know that 2023 will be a challenging year for our industry. It’s not our first and it won’t be our last, and we know what to do when the going gets tough. Let’s stay together, be strong pro-housing activists, give our business to BIA members … and make some time for fun at BIASC and local Chapter events.
Landmark moment aligns with BIA’s 100th year and reinforces Chapter’s commitment to its members.
The Building Industry Association of Southern California (BIASC) is excited to announce that the Baldy View Chapter will now be officially recognized as the San Bernardino County Chapter. The change comes at a pivotal moment as the BIA approaches its centennial year.
Leveraging the deeply rooted brand equity of San Bernardino County – the largest geographical county in the nation – the name change will reinforce the Chapter’s service area in a way that is more defined. The transition will be promoted statewide, aiding in the Chapter’s membership recruitment and retention program to generate further enthusiasm and awareness of its core mission: to provide its members with first-rate advocacy, policy expertise, and high-level networking. The name change also aligns with both the upcoming Chapter Board of Directors Installation Event on December 9, and the Association’s Centennial celebration in 2023.
“The Baldy View Chapter has a rich history, having provided our members with excellent service for more than five decades,” said Chapter President Tim Roberts, Brookfield Residential.
“This announcement is an important step to increase awareness that BIASC remains steadfast to serving our members and addressing the housing shortage in the largest geographic county in the nation.”
The San Bernardino County Chapter promotes and advocates for the homebuilding industry by investing in representation, policy making and economic growth. More than 1,000 member companies and 6,000 industry employees belong to the local chapter alone.
“As BIA Southern California is set to begin our centennial year in 2023, we felt there would be no better time to make this change and add to the BIA enthusiasm, spirit of collaboration and member interest in the San Bernardino County housing market,” said incoming Chapter President Ryan Combe, Lennar Homes. “This is a milestone moment as we move forward towards a historic year for our Chapter.”
For more information on the San Bernardino County Chapter, please visit https://www.biabuild.com/.
October 26, 2022, Beverly Wilshire
Darrell Issa, Senator Robert M. Hertzberg,
Barger and our BIASC Chairman Dave Bartlett, Brookfield Residential; a Keynote Conversation
President George W. Bush moderated by Sheryl Palmer, Chairman & CEO, Taylor Morrison;
music by the Angel Force USA Band; remarks by the 2023 Rose Parade® Special Guest Speaker Staff Sergeant David Bellavia, Medal of Honor Recipient; special remarks by Donna Deutchman, Homes 4 Families; the announcement our Veterans & Housing Program by Jeff Montejano, BIASC CEO; remarks by Outgoing LA/V
McReynolds, Toll Brothers; the 2023 BIA LA/V Chapter Awards & Board Installation; and remarks by Incoming LAV Chapter President John Hrovat, Equity Residential.
We are proud to partner with Homes 4 Families and housing leaders in the corporate, government and non-profit sectors as we begin a new mission and new beginning for the BIA of Southern California.
Learn more about our Builders for Better Communities Foundation (BBCF), a new charitable nonprofit that will serve to promote diversity, equity, and inclusiveness on behalf of the Building Industry Association of Southern California within the Southern California region, by visiting https://buildersforbettercommunities.org/.
It is with deep sorrow that we share that Nicole Dubois has passed away from complications related to cancer. She was an incredible member of the BIA Orange County Board, a 20-year employee of LSA, and an important voice for our industry. We express our deepest condolences to her family during this difficult time. Nicole was deeply loved and respected, and will forever be in our hearts.
It is our pledge to serve the home building community by promoting diversity, equity, and inclusiveness on behalf of the Building Industry Association of Southern California within the Southern California region.
As an organization, we are focused on supporting education and awareness programs that provide positive social, environmental, and economic impacts that help shape current and future communities.
For us, supporting affordable housing opportunities for U.S. Veterans and their families is a cornerstone of this program. California’s housing crisis continues to have a significant impact on the most vulnerable, including our veterans.
We would like to thank the many sponsors and attendees who supported veterans and housing for veterans at our Special Keynote Evening Honoring Veterans. Together, we can continue to impact our community for a better future. biasc.org.
As part of an ongoing effort to collectively give back to underserved communities within the homebuilding industry and the greater Southern California region, the Building Industry Association of Southern California (BIASC) is pleased to announce the formation of the Builders for Better Communities Foundation The foundation’s activities will include partnering with homebuilding industry members who support education and awareness programs that provide positive social, environmental, and economic impacts that help shape current and future communities. Learn more by visiting https://buildersforbettercommunities.org/.
DRY FLOAT DECORATION
(Two Shifts)
8:00AM - 4:00PM
(Lunch from 12:00PM - 1:00PM)
Partial Shifts worked from 8:00AM - 12:00PM or 1:00PM - 4:00PM 4:00PM - 11:00PM
Tuesday, 12/27 Thursday, 12/29 Wednesday, 12/28 Friday, 12/30
FLORAL FLOAT DECORATION
(Two Shifts)
8:00AM - 4:00PM
(Lunch from 12:00PM - 1:00PM)
Partial Shifts worked from 8:00AM - 12:00PM or 1:00PM - 4:00PM 4:00PM - 11:00PM
Friday, 12/30 Saturday, 12/31
Quarter Century Sponsor - $25,000
1 Float decorating team
4 VIP tickets to Tournament of Roses parade
4 Tickets to Tournament of Roses VIP pregame tent
2 Tickets to Rose Bowl game
BIASC Magazine Tournament of Roses Edition: Company mention
Logo placement on all marketing materials, event page and through the Tournament of Roses® event app
Decade Sponsor - $10,000
1 Float decorating team
2 VIP tickets to Tournament of Roses parade
2 Tickets to Tournament of Roses VIP pregame tent
2 Tickets to Rose Bowl game
BIASC Magazine Tournament of Roses Edition: Company mention
Logo placement on all marketing materials, event page and through the Tournament of Roses® event app
Rose Bouquet Sponsor - $5,000
Naming opportunity for young lady on BIASC float
2 VIP tickets to Tournament of Roses parade
2 Tickets to Tournament of Roses VIP pregame tent
2 Tickets to Rose Bowl game
BIASC Magazine Tournament of Roses Edition: Company mention
10 Commemorative Rose Parade Edition 100-Year logo t-shirts Logo placement on all marketing materials, event page and through the Tournament of Roses® event app
Generation Sponsor - $2,500
Naming opportunity for one cascading waterfall on BIASC float
2 VIP tickets to Tournament of Roses parade
BIASC Magazine Tournament of Roses Edition: Company mention
5 Commemorative Rose Parade Edition 100-Year logo t-shirts
Logo placement on all marketing materials, event page and through the Tournament of Roses® event app
Grand Sponsor - $1,000
2 VIP tickets to Tournament of Roses parade
BIASC Magazine Tournament of Roses Edition: Company mention
5 Commemorative Rose Parade Edition 100-Year logo t-shirts
Logo placement on all marketing materials, event page and through the Tournament of Roses® event app
Single Rose Sponsor - $500
2 VIP tickets to Tournament of Roses parade
BIASC Magazine Tournament of Roses Edition: Company mention
2 Commemorative Rose Parade Edition 100-Year logo t-shirts, hats and pins
Company name placement on all marketing materials, event page and through the Tournament of Roses® event app
First Year Sponsor - $200
2 Commemorative Rose Parade Edition 100-Year logo hats and pins
BIASC Magazine Tournament of Roses Edition: Company mention
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May 18, 2019 – Junior Builder Kickoff at Brookfield Residential
BIASC created the first Junior Builder program in 2019 as an annual summer camp designed to give young children the opportunity to learn more about the building industry with online home design contests and interaction with industry leaders.
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This week-long camp introduced Junior Builders to design and building in the homebuilding industry. This 5-day long camp included a home construction tour of a TRI Pointe Homes community, welcome to Bloxburg online design game competition, and more fun!
2,
Junior Builders presented their design projects and received a Certificate of Completion.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the program remained dormant until BIASC leadership presented the opportunity to the Junior Builder alumni to reconvene and assist with the BIASC’s float for the upcoming Rose Parade.®
After a two-year hiatus, BIASC was eager to re-engage the Junior Builder Program. This year, Junior Builders enjoyed a one-day camp that included a tour of Brookfield Residential’s Southern California offices and Design Center, activities teaching design and building, a scavenger hunt, and a very important commission: to collaborate to create a float design for BIASC’s 100th Anniversary float in the 2023 Rose Parade® presented by Honda.
August 11, 2022 – Tournament of Roses House Event
BIASC leadership and our Junior Builders unveiled the float design for BIASC’s 100th Anniversary float in the 2023 Rose Parade® presented by Honda.
Sign up today at biasc.org/roseparade to help decorate our 2023 Rose Parade® float.
January 2, 2023 - 2023 Rose Parade® presented by Honda
Tune in to watch us kick off our centennial year on January 2, 2023, as our float rolls majestically down Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena in the 134th Rose Parade® presented by Honda. The Association’s float will draw together BIASC’s builder, trade associate and supplier members into the most memorable way to express our shared goal of making it easier for all Southern Californians to enjoy and benefit from the American Dream of home ownership.
The Rose Queen and Royal Court are iconic traditions, steeped in the Pasadena Tournament of Roses’ history, and The Pasadena Tournament of Roses® is excited to continue the treasured legacy with the 2023 Royal Court.
Members of the Royal Court experience countless benefits; becoming part of an organization dedicated to hands-on volunteerism, discovering opportunities to connect with and give back to the local community, developing public speaking skills, and growing self-confidence.
The Pasadena Tournament of Roses® 104th Rose Queen® Bella Ballard
2023 Royal Court: Salia Baligh, Bella Ballard, Michelle Cortez-Peralta, Adrian Crick, Zoë Denoncourt, Sahanna Rajinikanthan, and Uma Wittenberg.
Royal Court members experience countless benefits; becoming part of an organization dedicated to hands-on volunteerism, discovering opportunities to connect with and give back to the local community, developing public speaking skills, and growing self-confidence. All are encouraged to apply and participate in one of the initial interview sessions at Tournament House in early September. Participants are selected based upon a combination of qualities, including public speaking ability, youth leadership, academic achievement, and community and school involvement.
The Royal Court attends nearly 100 community and media functions, serving as ambassadors of the Tournament of Roses, the Pasadena community, and the greater Los Angeles area. The grand finale for the Royal Court is riding on the Royal Court float in the Rose Parade® presented by Honda and attending the Rose Bowl Game both on New Year’s Day.
Co-Chairs:
BIASC Chairman Dave Bartlett, Brookfield Residential Wes Keusder, Keusder Homes
BIA Riverside County Chapter: Dan Leigh, Corman Leigh AnnMarie Quinn, GeoTek
BIA San Bernardino County Chapter:
BIA SCB Immediate Past President Tim Roberts, Brookfield Residential
BIA SCB President Ryan Combe, Lennar Homes
BIA LA/Ventura Chapter:
BIA LA/V Immediate Past President Bill McReynolds, Toll Brothers Rick White, Larrabure Framing
BIA Orange County Chapter:
BIA OC President Brooke Doi, Shea Homes
BIA OC Immediate Past President Eric Nelson, Trumark Homes
BIASC Executive Committee Members:
Tom Grable, TRI Pointe Homes
Greg McWilliams, FivePoint
Jeremy Parness, Lennar
Nicole Murray, Shea Homes
Chris Edgar, Pulte Homes
Mike Gartlan, KB Home
Mike Balsamo, Rancho Mission Viejo
Steve Schuyler, Irvine Company
Mike Battaglia, New Home Company
Alan Boudreau, Boudreau Pipeline
Peter Vanek, Integral Communities
Mark Himmelstein, Newmeyer Dillion Ali Sahabi, Optimum Group
BIASC’s float in the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena on January 2, 2023 is just the beginning of a year of events and advocacy centered around the Association’s 100th anniversary. The job of making the most of a milestone that comes around only once every 100 years falls to the members of the BIASC Centennial Committee.
“When you think of something that’s been here in Southern California for 100 years, you recognize right away that this Centennial celebration is something important – there’s not a lot here that goes back that far,” said committee member Eric Nelson, Vice President of Land Development at Trumark Homes and Immediate Past President of the Orange County Chapter. “It makes you wonder what it was like being a builder here in the 1920s. How hard was it then? It must have been hard enough that they needed to form an association to represent their interests – and it’s extra hard now.”
Fellow committee member Brooke Doi, Director of Community Development for Shea Homes and 2023 President of the Orange County Chapter, agrees. “The 1920s were big because they brought Southern California a better transportation system and more automobiles, which led to the first suburban tract home neighborhoods and new architectural styles. It was clear that back then there was a need for a collective voice for homebuilders, and since then BIA has been and seen a lot: the Great Depression and many recessions and recoveries, World War II when construction stopped, and after the war when it took off. After those 100 years the organization is still going strong, which is a testament to its members and their resilience.”
“I’m hoping that the next year gives us an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the joys of home ownership and all the benefits that developers and homebuilders bring,” said committee member Tim Roberts, Director of Land Entitlement, Brookfield Properties Development and Immediate Past President of the Baldy View (now San Bernardino County) Chapter. “You see it in newspaper articles, you see it on Yellowstone, the Number 1 show on TV – developers are always vilified. You hear all the time that development is bad, but how did NIMBYs get their homes? How did they get their schools, their parks, their infrastructure, their coffee shops, if it weren’t for developers? So, I’m looking forward to the Centennial year as an opportunity to highlight the good that we do, the dreams that we fulfill, the opportunities and jobs that we create.”
It’s clear that the Centennial Committee is intent on using the Centennial to improve the climate for homebuilding in the state. “This is as an
educational opportunity to further our cause, that is, building enough homes to meet the needs of Californians,” said Nelson. “BIA hasn’t just been here for 100 years; it’s been advocating for homebuilding for 100 years, and I would hope that over the next 100 years our efforts will bring us to the point where people understand why we build and how we build, so they support us instead of their first word being, ‘No.’”
But will the Centennial be all about advocacy? No. As Nelson put it, “With all our challenges, a part of me would like to scrap every part of the Centennial celebration that isn’t hard-core activism, but of course the Centennial Committee will be looking at how to build on the Rose Bowl Parade with a balance of great fun and strong advocacy for the rest of BIASC’s 100th year.”
The timing of the Centennial will make it important that the Committee not put all the focus on advocacy, says Doi. “The Centennial is a great opportunity to highlight the industry during what appears will be a down market – this can be a bright spot we can celebrate because unfortunately we probably won’t be celebrating home sales. Throughout the year we will continue to celebrate, even though we will have to be careful about what we commit to, keeping in mind that 2023 will be a challenging year for the industry.”
“Part of us is a fighting machine, battling regulations, exorbitant fees and process delays,” said Roberts. “But 100 years and the Festival of Roses Parade float are opportunities to remind the public of all the good things that we do – and also to do something else BIA excels at, which is giving our members an opportunity to network and have some fun.”
“As we see how the year is taking shape, the Committee will be ready to realize whatever opportunities we have to educate, highlight our positives, and have some fun,” promised Doi. “I am excited to see what the future will bring, especially with the state demanding all this new housing. It’s a great opportunity, but land is also scarce, and every site has unique challenges, so BIA will be very important. Our 100th year comes at a time when BIA will have an impact on all the future generations over the next 50 or 100 years who will live in the homes we will be providing.”
This Centennial is very remarkable, so I did a bit of research into what Southern California was 100 years ago to get a feel of what things were like back then. The 1920s were big because you started having a better transportation system and more automobiles, which led to the first suburban sprawl, tract home neighborhoods and new architectural styles. It was clear that back then there must have been a need for a collective voice for homebuilders, and that BIA has been and seen a lot: The changes and the recessions they’ve been through, and what happened in World War II when construction stopped, and after the war when construction took off.
Doi Vice President of Community Development, Shea Homes 2023 Board President, Orange County Chapter
After those 100 years the organization is still going strong, which is a testament to its members and their resilience. What was most clear is that their advocacy efforts never changed. BIA has always been that collective voice for the homebuilding community; it’s been the same mission for these 100 years. I talked to my dad (Les Thomas, former president of Shea Homes Southern California) about what it was like 25 years ago and it was the same things we’re dealing with now – NIMBYs, elected officials, fee increases, and building restrictions.
I think the Centennial is a great opportunity to highlight the industry during what appears will be a down market – this can be a bright spot we can celebrate because unfortunately we probably won’t be celebrating home sales. The float will be a great kick-off and an opportunity to highlight our history, to think about the future and to reflect the positives of homebuilding. A very large audience will be watching, so it’s a fantastic chance to put the spotlight on homebuilding in Southern California. Then, throughout the year we will continue to celebrate, even though we will have to be careful about what we commit to, keeping in mind that 2023 will be a challenging year for the industry. As we see how the year is taking shape, the Committee will be ready to realize whatever opportunities we have to educate, highlight our positives, and have some fun.
I am excited to see what the future will bring, especially with the state demanding all this new housing. It’s a great opportunity, but land is also scarce and every site has unique challenges, so BIA will be very important. This is a time when BIA’s involvement will have an impact on all the future generations over the next 50 or 100 years who will live in the homes we will be providing.
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When you think of something that’s been here in Southern California for 100 years, you recognize right away that this Centennial celebration is something important – there’s not a lot here that goes back that far. It makes you wonder what it was like being a builder here in the 1920s. How hard was it then? It must have been hard enough that they needed to form an association to represent their interests – and it’s extra hard now.
I would like to see us use our Centennial as an educational opportunity to further our cause, that is, building enough homes to meet the needs of Californians. BIA hasn’t just been here for 100 years; it’s been advocating for homebuilding for 100 years, and I would hope that over the next 100 years our efforts will bring us to the point where people understand why we build and how we build, so they support us instead of their first word being, “No.” People group us with landlords and land developers, but homebuilders aren’t either – we are building homes, the places people go home to after work or school, the place where all their important memories come from.
More and more, regulators and elected leaders think density is the answer, and density is fine and has its place, but we should use our Centennial to show people why we need to be allowed to build the types of homes consumers want, making it acceptable to the neighbors and the city, and still profitable for us since we are in a hyper-local, hyper-competitive industry.
With all this, a part of me would like to scrap every part of the Centennial celebration that isn’t hard-core activism, but of course the Centennial Committee will be looking at how to build on the Rose Bowl Parade with a balance of great fun and strong advocacy for the rest of BIASC’s 100th year.
What does it mean for BIA to turn 100? It just helps me put into perspective where I fit, and where we all fit, into the bigger picture, and how, for 100 years, we have needed an organization that solidifies our interests and fights for our common challenges. It’s not just because CEQA is our challenge now, or because legislators have run amok – the challenges come and go, but for an organization to be around for 100 years it tells you that it’s got value, it’s got staying power, it’s as incredibly important now to what we are trying to do as it was 100 years ago.
When I drive through tracts in older parts of town, it makes me realize that there were challenges then, too, and there were people in our profession who were trying to deliver the same dream that we’re delivering now. Housing here didn’t happen on it own. It happened through people like us in an organization called BIA. For 100 years, we’ve been battling on this same front. The challenges may be different, but we have always been an industry of people who want to make home ownership possible and build these neighborhoods that have afforded families all these great memories.
I’m hoping that the next year gives us an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the joys of home ownership and all the benefits that developers bring. You see it in newspaper articles, you see it on Yellowstone, the #1 show on TV – developers are always vilified. You hear it all the time from NIMBYs that development is bad, but how did they get their house? How did they get their schools, their parks, their infrastructure, their coffee shop, if it weren’t for developers? So, I’m looking forward to the Centennial year as an opportunity to highlight the good that we do, the dreams that we fulfill, the opportunities and jobs that we create. Part of us is a fighting machine, battling regulations, exorbitant fees and process delays – but 100 years and the Rose Bowl Parade float are opportunities to remind the public of all the good things that we do, that it’s us, their neighbors, who are the developers and homebuilders, not some villain in Hollywood.
Thank you to everyone who joined our VIP Tailgate Party leading up to watching the USC vs UCLA Game! BIASC members enjoyed a VIP Tailgate Experience, private dinning & bar, and a player meet & greet – with JJ Stokes, former UCLA All-American and Super Bowl Champion, the UCLA Spirit Squad with Bruin mascots Joe & Josephine and more!
The Building Industry Association of Southern California (BIASC) is proud to announce the nomination of industry trailblazer Leonard Miller to the prestigious California Homebuilding Foundation Hall of Fame. The annual Hall of Fame distinction honors outstanding leaders in the homebuilding industry while supporting the Foundation’s investment in scholarships, research, and education.
As CEO of BrightSky Residential, a Build-to-Rent homebuilder, Miller is an innovative leader in enhancing customers’ 360-degree experiences – from forging the most forward-thinking new home designs for today’s discerning buyers to developing systems that continually elevate customer service and satisfaction. In his former positions at Richmond American Homes and The New Home Company, Miller led his teams to become #1 in the nation for positive buyer experiences, a testament to his skill and dedication. Miller has also held several industry leadership positions, including BIASC Chair, Board President of BIA’s Riverside County Chapter, and Board Member of its Orange County Chapter.
Hall of Fame finalists will be notified in December 2022, with a formal induction set to take place in 2023.
In the more than 35 years the California Homebuilding Hall of Fame has been active, more than 240 men and women have been recognized for their contributions that have resulted in the long-term advancement of homebuilding, construction, development, marketing, finance, or related services within the building industry in California. For more information on the California Homebuilding Foundation, visit https://mychf.org.
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After years of serving on Boards, committees and Councils, including a decade representing BIASC’s Councils on the Association’s Governing Board, Valerie Hardman of Outdoor Dimensions is one of the most recognizable and respected members of BIASC. Southern California Builder asked her about her experiences with BIA and its Councils.
never stopped. I’m still doing that, and I’m still enjoying it, but my attitude has shifted to more of a giving back motivation. At first, it was about the networking and the fun – meeting people in an environment that builds trust, which led to more business, and now it’s time to give back. I’m proud to have served on the Boardsof 55 Plus, and now the Council on SAGE, the Orange County Chapter BIA, the Greater Sales & Marketing Council, HomeAid Orange County and now as the Vice President of Councils on the BIASC Governing Board.
SCB: So, it’s not overstating to say that you’ve benefitted greatly from BIA membership personally and professionally, right?
Valerie Hardman: I wanted to get right to work when I got out of high school, and started with a group of attorneys. I quickly saw the law wasn’t for me, so I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do. A friend who worked for Donald Bren Company in San Diego told me about two men who were going to open a division for the company in Newport Beach, Daren Groth and Harry Shull, who I interviewed with. I got the job – so that was my doorway into the industry. I didn’t actually work for Mr. Bren, but it was still an amazing platform for a young woman coming into an industry I knew nothing about. I eventually found my way to Outdoor Dimensions, where I’ve been for 31 years now – and I still love it too much to leave!
SCB: When did you first cross paths with BIA?
VH: Gosh, it’s been a long time! It started with the Home Builders Council (HBC), which back then seemed like the organization for the up and comers like Paul Johnson, Rick Peters and Tom Arconti. I worked with Paul on the Programs Committee and became enamored with the whole process of working with others on committees and I have to tell you, it’s
SEPTEMBER 27 - NOVEMBER 21, 2022
2nd Avenue Sales & Marketing
AA Ready Mix Concrete, Inc.
Accurate Termite and Pest Control
Aera Energy, LLC
Allard Engineering
Alpaca Enterprises, Inc.
AMPCO Contracting, Inc. - AMPCO North, Inc.
Architecture Design Collaborative Bank of America
BJ Palmer & Associates, Inc.
Bremer Whyte Brown & O'Meara, LLP
BrightView
C & C Development
California Mantel & Fireplace
Chameleon Design
Clover Masonry Construction
Cornerstone Specialty Insurance
David Evans and Associates, Inc.
David Taussig & Associates, Inc. (DTA)
Diamond W
Eagle Roofing Products
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Eco Waste Compacting
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Koeller Nebeker Carlson & Haluck LLP
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Land Concern, LTD.
Langan Engineering and Environmental Services, Inc. Macro-Z-Technology Co.
Mayland Cabinets
Metropolitan Water District
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NMG Geotechnical, Inc.
NorthStar Contracting Group, Inc.
Orange Coast Building Services Inc.
Orbis Public Affairs
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Peter Mayer Productions, Inc.
PNG Builders
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Saxe Doernberger & Vita, P.C. Seawolf Expediting
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Transtech Engineers Inc.
TrustLink Mortgage
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VH: I have to say I feel like the poster child for BIA membership. People kid me about it, but honestly, I feel that it’s a family. I wouldn’t say that I know everybody, but people think I do. I get to work with newcomers and still know so many people from so far back. The bottom line with BIA is that it’s all about doing business with members. I remember talking to Alan Boudreau of Boudreau Pipeline when he was first kicking around BIA involvement and I told him, “If you don’t do anything else, get involved.” And look at what’s happened – if I had a success story, that would be it! Anyone who doesn’t see the benefit of BIA doesn’t understand how things are networked.
SCB: Besides BIA, you also have this job with Outdoor Dimensions. Tell us about that.
VH: I’m so proud to be able to say I’ve been a part of what’s happened here. We’ve grown by leaps and bounds and I have to commend the team here for continuing to push the envelope to the point where we just changed our tagline to “Outdoor Dimensions, Since 1974 More Than Just Signs.” We stopped defining ourselves as just being for the builders and expanded our thinking to doing signage for everyone. Multifamily has been so good to us, and we’ve gotten into healthcare and just did the Wild Rivers signage at The Great Park. When the Great
Park balloon has a mask on it – that’s us. The Orange County monument that you see on The OC Housewives and when you enter the county on the 5 Freeway was ours, too.
SCB: What has been your experience as a woman in this industry?
VH: This goes back to Don Pickler, our founder, so I can’t take credit for it, but my team of salespeople is nine women. We’ve had good male salespeople before, but as it happens, now we’re all women and they are out in hardhats on these big multi-family projects. It’s really exciting to see the doors open. I owe so much in my career to the women – and men – who mentored me, for the time they took and the wisdom they passed on. It’s not that I wouldn’t have the career I’ve had without them – I wouldn’t be the person I am without them.
BIASC has been doing for the last five years so important, and why I’ve been happy to be a part of it, talking to the younger people about the importance of networking and building connections, friendships and support systems. I don’t want to say that the younger generation doesn’t get this as much as earlier generations, but with the technology and social networks, it’s different. Any time I’ve pushed someone to get that face-to-face time, it just takes that one time for them to get the difference: It doesn’t just build business – it builds your future and well-being.
SCB: You’ve been Vice President for Councils for about ten years now. What is involved in that?
VH: BIASC is a well-oiled machine, and I think we on the Councils understand that if we can let the Governing Board take care of other business than us, we’re helping the Association. My goal is more to watch over the Councils, to encourage that they are engaging in what BIA’s vision is and keeping them aligned with what BIA is doing.
SCB: Do you have any closing thoughts?
VH: Be bold! That’s what made the difference for me between just providing for myself and having amazing and deep connections and long-lasting friendships in this great industry.
Marissa Feliciano Jamboree Housing Corporation Council on SAGE President
We are grateful to ALL who have continued to support the Council on SAGE throughout the year by sponsoring, attending, and contributing to all things senior housing in our industry. And congratulations to all the winners of our annual SAGE awards, especially to our 2022 Person of the Year Honorees, John Paris and Mark Hendrickson of HPI Architecture!
The so-called longevity economy, which serves the needs of Americans over 50, is currently a $7.1 trillion market and composes 46 percent of the U.S. economy, according to Oxford Economics. As baby boomers continue to age, the market is forecasted to grow to more than $13.5 trillion by 2032. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, by 2030 there will be approximately 71.5 million Americans over the age of 65. This represents nearly 20 percent of the entire projected U.S. population in 2030.
We are all things senior housing, with an emphasis on design, development, and construction! Our Council’s mission is to combine cutting-edge information and education with key networking for professionals that build, design, manage, market or otherwise influence a range of housing opportunities for 55+ consumers. From age-qualified multifamily housing to assisted living and memory care, there is a huge need to build more of everything along the senior housing spectrum. With Americans living longer than ever before, there’s no reason to believe that interest in senior housing will slow down.
We encourage all BIASC members to attend our events, join a subcommittee, or help lead the charge among other industry expert by joining the Board of Directors. Click here to join the Council on SAGE! Looking forward to a new year of limitless possibilities!
NextGen had a very busy and successful 2022 year. One of our initiatives this year was to increase participation and bring in new faces by hosting educational, social, and philanthropic events every month.
To recap, we organized three “Evening Buzz” events with featured speakers, Dave Bartlett from Brookfield, Gerry McCaughey from Entekra, and Steve Cameron from Foremost Pacific Group. Planned in a intimate group setting, these three gentlemen shared their career paths, advice for the next generation, and answered all questions from our NextGen members. Our “Mentorship Program” continued with avid participation and has been a favorite the past 5 years. We hosted two “Site Tours” this year at Rancho Mission Viejo Rienda Village and Prado West in Dana Point. This allowed developers to give an inside look and showcase their new communities. We hosted a happy hour specifically dedicated for donations to HomeAid at Muldoon’s Irish Pub in Newport Beach and participated in both HomeAid’s Diaper Drive and Thanksgiving Food Drive.
We added two new events this year that had a significant turnout. In the spring, we had our “Insider Event” where we had a 6-person panel of past NextGen members. They shared their stories on how NextGen helped shape their careers, opened opportunities, and the importance of relationship building. Over the summer, we hosted our first Cornhole Tournament with the opportunity to win prizes. This event had a lot of participants and spectators which was a great way to raise funds for our committee. We plan to continue the Cornhole Tournament and make it an annual event in the summer.
As we wrap up 2022 and prepare for 2023, we are excited to announce our incoming NextGen Chair and Co-Chair: Shannon Whittaker from Landsea Homes and Leanne Pham from Danielian Associates. We are thrilled to continue our ongoing efforts of setting up young homebuilding leaders for success by creating events that will impact their careers and helping them build long lasting relationships with their peers. If you have young leaders in your office that you think would benefit from NextGen, please reach out to our Membership Chair Chad Davies at Chad@daviesimaging.com. We look forward to another great year in 2023!
Over the years, the BIA Riverside Chapter Office - also known as the “BIA House” has served as an historical gem and testimonial to the BIA and its members for creating this landmark in Riverside. The BIA House has hosted countless board meetings, political fundraisers, and special events, providing an exclusive space for our members to gather, network, and celebrate.
The BIA House came into the BIA Riverside Chapter’s possession as soaring new home sales in the Inland Empire set the stage under when industry legend Borre Winckel, who was CEO of the chapter at the time. For years, chapter leaders had wanted to get out of office leases and own a property they could use as an office – specifically a house because, after all, they were homebuilders. Potential properties came and went until 3891 11th Street turned up. It was an odd house, its design caught in the transition between Victorian and Craftsman, with two different street addresses, one on 11th Street and one on Almond Street, and two mirrored homes within, one for the owner and one for his tenant. In 2004, BIA bought it.
“We asked for the best of the best to participate, and members stepped up,” Borre recalls. “To get the BIA House
remodeled was very much a ‘We are building the house together’ project, and because the House and the concept sold itself, the members fell in love with it and pitched in with their products and their skills.”
BIA moved into the house in late November 2006, coinciding with the house’s 100th anniversary. Borre regarded this purchase as one of his biggest, and most fun, accomplishments while at the helm of the chapter.
In the last two years, as remote meetings and virtual work have become norm, BIASC leadership begin to think about the future of the BIA House and its role in the organization’s future. This year, after careful consideration in a world where our Chapter teams are all working remotely and no longer have an office presence, BIA leadership concluded it was in the best interest of the association to sell the property. And so, we wish a fond farewell to the BIA House, thankful for the memories and association growth that it afforded to us.
Thank you for your continued support of all Building Industry of Southern California Chapters as our teams continue to serve you.
