Montana Home Experts 2022

Building More Than Houses

FROM THE PRESIDENT

THE COVER

Being actively involved in the building industry (hammers and nails), this part of writing is a new, and exciting, adventure!

With that being said, I am seeing a continued effort to help grow and move the building industry forward in a positive manner. One direction is to help minimize the “red tape,” which holds back future growth and snuffs out the realities for many families hoping to find attainable housing. The IWUIC (International Wildlife-Urban Interface Code) is a financial and logistical impact on the building industry, specifically impacting certain class codes. The questions of the hour are what class code applies to my operation(s), what do these class codes entail, and how will they be carried out?

Believe me, we are trying to figure out the impacts ourselves. Luckily, we have a wonderful new executive officer (EO), Cory Shaw. Cory has been on top of every aspect and/or concern we are trying to confront. Previous years have shown a disconnect in the information chain among local, state, and national associates. Cory has been diligently trying to remedy this disconnect by working on a smoother carry and impact chain. I would also like to express my appreciation to the past president, Allen Ream, for finding such a great replacement for our EO in the pool of candidates that we had to choose from.

There is a legislative session on the horizon, and it is going to be a busy one, by the sounds of it. I know that Cory is going to be incredibly involved in the process and is going to keep all of us engaged and, hopefully, if she needs some of us to help her along the way, we will be there for her. There is more strength in numbers when these legislative issues come up. Cory will be up on the hill quite often fighting for us and our way of life. I know from my standpoint that I am incredibly happy to have Cory and the rest of the MBIA board on our side to help with issues that will surely confront us soon.

I also want to express how important it is to try and get more people involved with the association at all levels.

I am very thankful and humbled to be your president and hope to help as much as I can.

Classic Design Homes photos by Wandering Albatross Photography

A NOTE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

I took this photo of myself the day I interviewed via Zoom for this position. It was my way of documenting what I hoped would be a successful transi tion to a position I had been seeking for years. I also had COVID and was under quaran tine, so I was thankful for the Zoom option and the time off to accommodate the interviews! I landed a second interview and the appointment to the position while under the influence of NyQuil and a virus. I stood out for one reason or another, and I am thankful the board voted me in!

I do want to thank the mem bers and board of directors for their support, grace, humor, commit ment to leadership, and no-nonsense way of doing things. The fact that you all have been able to get behind me so quickly and energeti cally with relatively little pushback has been no less than remarkable. I changed some things—BIG THINGS—and that can be scary.

In addition to a supportive board, I want to personally thank the local EOs who have been so quick to cheer me on, give me feedback, and trust the process. I know changes at the state also bring changes to the local associations, and I truly appreciate the efforts that have gone into making this a functioning and cohesive team. You are all invaluable to this association, and I hope to continue to build our team!

Next, I want to thank the MBIA staff who have shifted and flexed continually as we have assessed what needs are not being met and/or had to shift directions due to impossibilities. One of the biggest chal lenges in stepping into the unknown is anticipating what will happen with accuracy, and I have missed some marks. I can say that both Monty and Ashley have embraced the crazy and are doing phenomenal

jobs. Without them, we would not have been as successful in imple menting the changes we needed to make

We’ve tackled GRIP full on. We’ve rebranded, expanded training, and restructured GRIP with the support of Montana State Fund.

We’ve also made changes at MBIA! We streamlined internal processes and procedures, built a new website, implemented a new strategic plan, and have a new legislative strategy in place. We also repainted the offices and have made this place our own!

LEGISLATIVE

I know the Montana building industry is a diverse industry with many members spread across a large state, and I choose to view this as an opportunity rather than a challenge or problem. Diversity is inherently resourceful, and I feel we have what it takes to bring the best solutions to the table in a time where we need solutions—not problems.

Avoiding distractions these days can be challenging, and my goal is to remain focused on what truly matters. We cannot get wrapped up in the weeds. I aim to be mindful of that because, every legislative session brings with it a plethora of information. I aim to establish a clear and effective communication channel that will provide the best information disbursement, as well as a responsive audience that will keep our legislative team well informed and able to communicate effectively with our legislators and our members.

With the political climate as it is, I foresee a very busy legislative session this year with our key issues being DNRC water permitting process and exempt wells, DEQ subdivision review, supply chain chal lenges, building codes, growth plans/local jurisdictional issues, and property taxes.

I believe that there are opportunities for big and positive changes in all areas we as an association operate, and I feel we can make excel lent change if we work together and communicate effectively.

Thank you all again for your support, engagement, and encourage ment! I realize that you all participate in this association on a volunteer basis, and your commitment and engagement are a true testament to your belief in this association and the benefits it brings you. I am looking forward to a productive and successful year!

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building more

By Rosemary L. Howell Edge Marketing + Design Feature Photos by Wandering Albatross Photography

than houses CLASSIC DESIGN HOMES

When you work with Classic Design Homes, located in the rapidly growing city of Billings, Montana, you are working with one of the best design/build teams in the state. They are passionate about building quality, custom homes for their clients and ensuring that integrity and client satisfaction are at the forefront of each project.

Working with the team at Classic Design Homes provides a professional, simplified, easy-to-understand design process, in which clients can choose their level of involvement. Classic Design Homes comes highly recom mended and highly regarded in the Billings community, but that’s not all you get when you choose to work with this incredible company.

We spoke with Doug Wild, one of the only Certified Professional Building Designers (CPBD) in the state and long-time general manager of Classic Design Homes, who said their mission transcends the building industry, also focusing efforts on building community partnerships and giving back to important causes. The most notable, and perhaps the most meaningful, project is the St. Jude Dream Home® Giveaway campaign with St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

“Real joy comes from raising money for this children’s research facility,” says Doug. “There is something that happens in the community, with the staff, with our contrac tors, and management team. There is more camaraderie built when we’re doing it for a purpose as important as this.”

St. Jude is leading the way the world understands, treats, and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. Treatments invented at St. Jude have helped push the overall childhood cancer sur vival rate from 20% to more than 80% since it opened its doors more than 50 years ago. The mission of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital is to advance cures and means of prevention for pediatric diseases through research and treatment. No child is denied treatment based on race, religion, or a fam ily’s ability to pay.

Efficiency, beauty, and top-notch quality are some of the characteristics that define a Classic Design Home and, in 2022, they gener ously donated building materials, labor, and design efforts to the St. Jude Dream Home® Giveaway campaign. Under Doug’s manage ment and expertise, Classic Design Homes was able to raise upwards of one million dol lars for St. Jude Children’s Hospital by selling raffle tickets to individuals for $100 each. One lucky winner got to walk away with a one-ofa-kind, custom home, while also supporting an incredible cause. “Win a house. Help save kids’ lives. It’s a win-win” Doug says.

Doug’s team was so inspired by the out come of the 2022 Dream Home® Giveaway, they have chosen to participate in 2023. Once again, Classic Design Homes will donate resources, building materials, and labor to construct the home of any families’ dreams. Raffle tickets will go on sale early spring of 2023, and the drawing will commence in late spring of 2023. Each raffle ticket sold will go to benefit the mission of St. Jude— Finding cures. Saving children®—ensuring that no family ever receives a bill from St. Jude Children’s Hospital.

Just when you think Classic Design Homes has given enough back to the commu nity through multiple St. Jude Dream Home® Giveaways, they unveil their “greater mis sion,” which is to serve Indigenous communi ties on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation. They do this through Island Mountain Development Group (IMDG), by assisting in creating a self-sustaining economy through business opportunities, job creation, and resource development for the Aaniiih (Gros Ventre) and Nakoda (Assiniboine) people. In 2019, Classic Design Homes was acquired by IMDG, which has developed and led this mission for over a decade.

Doug and the team at Classic Design Homes were ecstatic to join forces with and help IMDG expand. Doug, in particular, was pleased to know that IMDG was not only supportive of, but also monumental in, the implementation of the St. Jude Dream Home® Giveaway. Generosity is a core value of the Aaniiih (Gros Ventre) and Nakoda (Assiniboine) people, so both

missions are well aligned. IMDG and Classic Design Homes are honored to be the sponsor and builder of the St. Jude Dream Home® Giveaway in Billings, Montana.

IMDG is organized to create a selfsustaining economy for the people of the Fort Belknap Indian Community. Their operations range from real estate to information tech nology, government contracting to financial technology, and of course, building and construction. They have seen 10 years of consecutive revenue growth, created 330 jobs in 2021 alone, and continuously work to cre ate a self-sustaining economy within the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation. Their economic, social, and cultural impacts are undeniable. Classic Design Homes is honored to help serve not only the community of Billings, but also the long-underserved population of the Fort Belknap Indian Community.

Doug has lived in Billings and called Montana home for over 20 years. He has worked as the General Manager for Classic Design homes for over a decade and has dedicated himself to making Billings and surrounding areas a better place. He is more than a designer with good ideas; he is an expert builder of homes, a master of listening, and an undeniable expert builder of community partnerships. Doug has been inspired to design and build homes since his time in high school. It has long been his passion to create spaces for families to live, create memories, and bring their dreams to life. Most people who design homes learn the process on their own, but that wasn’t enough to satisfy Doug. Working with one of the only Certified Professional Building Designers (CPBD) in the state has its advantages. He can

prove that he’s more than qualified through nationally certified course work, tests, and final certification.

Each client has their own wants, needs, and vision for their dream home. Every suc cessful home starts with good design. Each design begins with listening, and Doug is a master of listening to his clients’ needs. Finding the intersection between functional ity, visual aesthetics, and how a family will live in a home is integral to a Classic Design Home. Doug is an expert at coaching his clients through a potentially overwhelming array of options and decisions. Whether it’s countertops, carpet, trim, or siding, clients can become easily overwhelmed with deci sion fatigue. The right builder on your team can help simplify and streamline the process. Doug is the right builder. He is integral to Classic Design Homes and is devoted to his church, his family, his community, and his work, especially when his job allows him to serve in all of these capacities at once.

Like any other industry, Classic Design Homes has been subject to material short ages, supply chain deficiencies and delays, labor shortages, and difficulty finding skilled laborers, but they have weathered the storm through their tight-knit network of partners and suppliers. They treat the companies they work with and the tradespeople that make it all happen very well. For them, it’s all about relationships and working as a team to over come obstacles. Their future projects include 2023’s St. Jude Dream Home® Giveaway, Billings Parade of Homes, the BuffaloCrossing subdivision, and more. We will, no doubt, be hearing more from Doug and the incredible team at Classic Design Homes.

Under Doug’s management and expertise, Classic Design Homes was able to raise upwards of one million dollars for St. Jude Children’s Hospital by selling raffle tickets to individuals for $100 each. One lucky winner got to walk away with a one-of-a-kind, custom home, while also supporting an incredible cause. “Win a house.

Help save kids’ lives. It’s a win-win” Doug says.

MONTY JENSEN: GRIP Safety Program Manager

“Life ... the condition that distinguishes animals and plants from inorganic mat ter, including the capacity for growth, reproduction, functional activity, and continual change preceding death.”

For the vast majority, I believe we wake up and begin each day, or most anyway, with hope and expectation of good things, productive and suc cessful outcomes from each decision and every effort that we put into our existence. However, the success of these outcomes is based largely on our choice and ability to choose each thought and action wisely. Wisdom to choose well is acquired in knowledge, whether through time, as one reflects on past choices respective to their outcome, and through the instruc tion given by others.

As a safety trainer with many years’ experience, I enjoy imparting knowledge to others, with hopeful anticipation of their choice to receive that knowledge and put it to good use in their daily lives to better evalu ate each event, personal or for business, to have the best life possible.

GRIP

You will notice that the GRIP schedule is more comprehensive and robust. This is in thanks to the feedback we received on our GRIP survey. Aside from expanding and rebranding, one of the other changes we have made to GRIP is to bring a business model to the operation of this program. GRIP is a separate entity from MBIA and is wholly funded by Montana State Fund by way of the participants in the group policy. It is not an MBIA-funded program, but it is sup ported by MBIA and MBIA resources in partnership with Montana State Fund.

We had to re-establish the boundaries that should have been in place all along to preserve the validity of the program for the Montana State Fund and GRIP enrollees. Therefore, as always, all classes are free for all GRIP program enrollees.

Starting January of 2023, GRIP classes will be offered to all MBIA members at a discount of $25 per person. This fee covers time and materials not covered by Montana State Fund and ensures that those who are enrolled in GRIP through Montana State Fund receive these classes as a benefit to their premiums.

By Cory Lee Ann Shaw MBIA Executive Director

exempt wells de minimis impact:

AKA too trivial or minor to merit consideration, especially in law

Montana is one of the least densely populated states in the country. Many of its residents live outside of municipal areas where they do not have access to a municipal water system and must rely on wells that tap into underground aquifers for water for the home. Approximately one-third of the state relies on a non-municipal water source, and with the increase in demand for available housing, the pressure on builders to meet the demand is immense.

Standing in the way of that is a permitting and water rights system that is complex, timely, and expensive, which is cost prohibi tive to affordable and attainable housing.

Recently (August 26th, 2022) a lawsuit was filed against the DNRC and Broadwater County for a subdivision that would bring much needed homes to the area. These homes are what we consider mid-level homes whereupon those who have owned homes in town and want to grow, would be able to purchase a home on some land, thus opening much needed first-time homeowner inven tory. We encourage this type of growth as it allows for growth and housing attainability.

This lawsuit specifically calls into question the DNRC’s approval of what is termed “ex empt” wells, which has been an ignition point on the hill for decades. The question is, how do exempt wells impact water in the state? If you read the State Water Plan, you’d learn a few things about how de minimis exempt wells truly are, and you’d wonder why so much money, resources, and time have been spent on such an insignificant matter.

We did some math.

NUMBERS DON’T LIE

These numbers come directly from the 2015 State Water Plan executive summary and are also incorporated into the State Water Plan if you are interested.

The use of terms such as “total use” in place of “consumptive vs non-consumptive use” is strategically used, both in the plan and executive summary. It appears to emphasize total use, while minimizing the emphasis on what is consumed and or removed from the supply.

Interestingly, total use is measured at 84-million-acre feet—but 80.4-million-acre feet of that is immediately returned, other wise deemed as non-consumptive use.

Of that use, approximately 3.6-million -acre feet is considered consumptive—by the State’s definition.

Of the approximately 3.6-million-acre feet used per year—based on the State Water Plan:

Angle-right Ag consumes approximately 2.4-millionacre feet or 67.3% of all water consumed.

Angle-right Evaporation consumes approximately 1-mil lion-acre feet or 28% of all water consumed.

Angle-right All other defined use (municipal, indus trial, domestic and livestock watering) consumes between 3.71% and 5.5%—due to an unreported margin of error—or ap proximately 200,000-acre feet of all water consumed. Break that down further by types of use and you will find that of that 200,000-acre feet annually used:

Caret-Right Domestic is 0.4%

Caret-Right Industrial is 0.03%

Caret-Right Thermoelectric is 0.08%

Caret-Right Stock Water is 1.2%

Caret-Right Municipal is 2%

Caret-Right Unmentioned .99% margin of error

One acre foot is equal to 325851 gallons. This means that the total consumption of all other defined use is 178,548,493 gallons per day across the state. This is less than 200 gallons per person per day as they use water at work, at home, at the car wash, watering animals, watering yards, swimming in public pools, irrigating parks, golf courses, etc.

If we want to break that down further, of that roughly 178 mil gallons per day—mu nicipal, and domestic consumption of water is about 2.4%—or 4,285,164 gallons per day. Considering there are 1.14 million people in Montana, that equates to less than 4 gallons per person per day being used at their homes.

On the other hand, ag uses 2,142,581,918 gallons per day.

Evaporation equates to 892,742,466 gal lons per day.

Why is there so much time being spent regulating development, and blaming a housing development for water impact, while completely ignoring the two biggest water uses totaling 94% of the total statewide con sumption—ag and evaporation?

ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM

What’s more visible, a new subdivision or a

new center pivot? The answer is housing. Housing is an easy target as it dramati cally changes the landscape and is clearly more visible. Lawmakers and conservation entities will attack the builders at every turn, spending an astronomical amount of resources, time, and money on probably the smallest water user in the state.

Ag is free to operate with very little regula tion, and access to water is based on mea surement tables that are over 50 years old. Ag also has flexibility on true measurement. They have no efficiency requirements or wa ter infrastructure requirements, and yet they are the biggest users of water in the state.

Interestingly, going back to the math. If ag can show a 2% reduction in consumption, there will be a reduction of use by 4,285,163 gallons per day. That completely cancels out domestic and municipal use across the state—entirely.

This proves exempt wells—a subset of municipal and domestic use—to be de mini mis. This is even more so when you calculate how a well and septic system work; they are essentially a closed system with groundwater recharge occurring through a septic filtration system—a system that is heavily governed by the DEQ and the EPA, with efficiencies and standards set much higher than people real ize. The building industry standards on septic systems are substantially cleaner and more efficient than they were 50 years ago, so why are the builders restricted to old data while ag is privileged with old data?

The nutrient standards for municipal waste water treatment, if allowed to go where the environmental groups would like to see it go, would have discharge of treated wastewater cleaner than the source it was originally pulled from. It would be a detriment to the ecosystem and the overall environment to recharge a source with water that would lead to a net depletion of mineral concentration, upend pH, and reduce overall nutrient content.

We ask—does ag measure seepage from irrigation canals, flood irrigation, etc. into groundwater? Is fertilizer regulated before being allowed to seep into groundwater and streams due to surface water runoff?

The elephant in the room is a double standard.

Cory Lee Ann Shaw, MBIA Executive Director

MONTANA WATER LAW: EXEMPT WELLS

By MBIA Archives

Under Montana’s water rights system, a more complex and onerous permitting process is required for wells over 35 gallons per minute and 10 acre-feet per year. This more complex permitting process is both time consuming and expensive. However, a statutory exemption has allowed for the permitting of small wells (35 gallons per minute and 10 acre-feet per year or less) that do not exceed a specified flow rate or total usage of water per year.

This statutory exemption from the onerous permitting process for small wells and earlier interpretation of the term “combined appropriations” allowed small develop ments of approximately 10–20 homes to be built without going through the onerous permitting process and allowed homeowners to add a second well on their property without huge expense.

Unfortunately, in fall of 2014, all of this changed when a judge invalidated the 1993 definition of “combined appro priations” that had been in effect and ordered that the defi nition revert to the 1987 definition, which includes within “combined appropriations” wells that are not physically connected but are completed in the same source aquifer and “in the department’s judgment, could have been ac complished in a single appropriation.”

MBIA is strongly opposed to this new interpretation of the definition given the de minimis status of exempt wells. We further move that due to their exemption and de minimis stature, they also fall outside the definition of “combined appropriation” entirely. We believe that this perspective is consistent with the original intent of the legislature by put ting an exemption in place. Exempt is exempt. Anything dif ferent threatens to completely halt the ability to develop a home and substantially increases the cost of development in areas outside of municipalities where many Montana residents prefer to reside, thus removing affordable and attainable housing from the table.

all your Solar Electric Needs

Why is there so much time being spent regulating development, and blaming a housing development for water impact, while completely ignoring the two biggest water uses

the total statewide

and evaporation?

MONTANA CITIES NEED PRO-HOUSING REFORMS

From rural communities to bustling city centers, there are few places that have been spared from the consequences of Montana’s housing shortage. While many factors that limit the supply of affordable, attainable housing are beyond the control of policymak ers, one significant factor is well within their grasp— strict local zoning regulations.

The Frontier Institute published the Montana Zoning Atlas report, which demon strates how strict local zoning regulations worsen Montana’s housing shortage by making it difficult to build affordable types of housing in our cities.

Restrictive zoning practices reserve vast portions of Montana cities for larger lots, which are zoned for single-family homes, thus restricting creativity and prohibiting building denser single family housing, and multifam ily housing, such as duplexes and triplexes, which are all more affordable by design.

As a result of restrictive zoning regulations like Single-Family Zoning and Minimum Lot Areas, the atlas finds 70% of primary resi dential areas in Montana’s most in-demand cities either outright prohibit or penalize middle-density housing like townhomes, duplexes, and triplexes.

Among all the cities assessed in the Montana Zoning Atlas report, two-family

By Kendall Cotton

housing is welcomed without regulatory penalties on just 29% of primary residential land, while three-family housing is welcomed on only 8%.

It’s not surprising to learn that cities at the epicenter of Montana’s housing crisis are the least welcoming to affordable types of housing. More than half the primary residential areas in Bozeman and over three quarters of residen tial land in Missoula prohibit middle-density housing using a combination of Single-Family Zoning and Minimum Lot Areas.

Whitefish is a close second with 63% of residential areas that prohibit middle-density development. It’s no wonder why workers, renters, and young families are getting priced out of these cities. (The pink areas in these maps indicate where middle-density housing is prohibited.)

While there is no silver bullet that will resolve the housing crisis, injecting flex ibility into strict zoning practices represents low hanging fruit Montana cities can tackle in short order to help boost the supply of affordable, attainable homes. Our leaders should adopt pro-housing reforms that give landowners more freedom to build new homes where they are needed most. The best part? These reforms can be implemented at no cost to taxpayers.

To explore the Montana Zoning Atlas, go to frontierinstitute.org/atlas

Kendall Cotton is president and CEO of the Frontier Institute, a think tank dedicated to breaking down government barriers so all Montanans can thrive.

3D-printed thehomeshero? are

By Cory Lee Ann Shaw MBIA Executive Director

HOMES ARE HERE.

THEY THE SOLUTION TO THE HOUSING CRISIS?

Are 3D-printed homes the hero we’ve been waiting for to boost affordable housing production in Big Sky Country, or are they merely a red herring to divert attention from the real causes behind why Montana home builders are unable to produce the housing our residents need? Many companies tout the technology as the solution to the housing crisis, as well as a cheaper and faster way to build, but how good is fast when homes simply cannot be built?

Montana has seen a massive influx of cash-laden investors and home buyers from out-of-state who have grabbed up inventory and driven up prices—effectively pricing out longtime residents. Indeed, Montana has

borne the brunt of soaring home prices more than most interior states due to a large migration from West Coast urban centers to our state’s suburban and rural areas as those who are able to work from home left coastal cities seeking a higher quality of life and affordable living.

Areas like Missoula, Bozeman, Billings, and the Flathead saw spikes well above the national average. Statewide, Montana’s average home price increase was 23.8% in 2021 compared to the national average of 17.4%, according to the Federal Housing Finance Agency, and 2022 numbers are looking to be leading the pack again. As a result, local housing markets and residents have suffered.

BUILDING MORE HOMES IS KEY

Lack of housing is the primary cause of our housing affordability challenges, and the need to enact solutions is paramount. Gov. Greg Gianforte has enacted the Housing Taskforce, and various agencies have formed sub-working groups to try and address the is sue. While most groups are just now focusing on the lack of inventory, the Montana Building Industry Association has been screaming for decades about obstacles to producing affordable housing that until now have been ignored. Locked up land, a push for college degrees with a diversion from blue collar jobs, and apathetic local jurisdictions are to blame. It seems, though, that the voice of the

home builder, who would rather see attain ability at all levels of homeownership built into the model, has simply gone unnoticed for decades.

Builders have been fighting a system of regulations and restrictions for decades. Growth policies have been ignored, proce dures, rules and regulations have been aban doned, and schools are pushing students to take out debt on student loans and get a degree in oversaturated white-collar fields. Meanwhile, builders have been working to get developments approved to no avail. In some instances, 6-10 years have gone by, and subdivisions still sit undeveloped due to ongoing subdivision and elemental reviews, NIMBYISM and jurisdictional apathy.

The decision made by the Montana Department of Labor and Industry—who in August of this year led the nation as the first state to approve 3D-printed walls as a replacement for traditional walls made from concrete masonry or standard cored con crete blocks—is being touted by some as the solution we’ve been waiting for. But haven’t the builders been fighting for solutions the entire time? We think so!

The DLI feels it has examined the proper reports from the out-of-state company who requested the approval, and the approval applies not just to single-family dwellings, but also for all types of construction that must follow the state building code. The code includes requirements for construction and

construction materials to be consistent with accepted standards of design, engineering, and fire prevention practices, and to use technology that reduces cost of construction and promotes efficient energy use while still complying with health and safety standards.

“The need for safe, quality, affordable housing is significant across Montana, and this approval puts Montana at the forefront of innovative housing construction technologies nationwide,” said Montana’s Commissioner of Labor & Industry, Laurie Esau. “The Department will continue to work to ensure that our standards and regulations are keep ing pace with the innovation taking place in the industry to help facilitate new construction for Montana’s workers and families.”

3D PRINTING IS ONLY A START

This all sounds good, right? But is it really? Have we solved the inherent problems that plague the building industry? We at the MBIA say no, not really.

Having a new toy to show off is nice, and we think it is exciting to see technology making leaps and bounds. We look forward to seeing some of our local builders adopt these new technologies into their business model but, at the same time, we want to take a realistic look at what is really happening in the build ing industry.

We want regulatory agencies to stop du plicative processes and procedures—clean

up the red tape. We’ve been lobbying for this change since 1968.

We want local government to feel empow ered to move forward with growth plans that are needed to facilitate the building of homes at all income levels. We want the 100+ homes going in at proposed new developments to outweigh the voice of the few neighbors who knowingly bought within an urban growth boundary but refuse to accept development in their vicinity. We have been fighting NIMBYISM every step of the way.

We want infrastructure support from municipalities and state agencies to help us shoulder the burden of housing those who need homes.

We want our educational system to cham pion the labor industry. We want our schools to cheer students who want to stay local, work the family business, and build communities with their own hands as they develop lifelong skillsets and friendships that are invaluable to family and community.

We want our builders to be able to do what they do: build houses for families who need them. We want quality homes to be champi oned, we want to continue to leave our legacy on the landscape, and we want to embrace technology as we solve the real problems with the housing crisis.

The reality is if we cannot build a home (3D or not) we have accomplished nothing— no matter how cool it looks.

Adam Snavley

Tami Soumas

Town & Country Electric

(406)

(406) 690-2431

(406)

PREPARING YOUR BUSINESS FOR NATURAL DISASTERS

By NAHB

Preparedness is essential to home builders and contractors because these adverse conditions can present direct emergent threats to those on a worksite and frequently do so quickly.

That’s why all builders need to have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and a Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) prepared in ad vance, so that should the worst occur, they are prepared for emergencies on the worksite and minimize potential business disruptions that may follow.

In case of an impending weather event or wildfire, some preparedness actions recom mended for the worksite are as follows:

Angle-right Pay close attention to the local authorities and officials’ reports regarding changing weather conditions and evacuation orders.

Angle-right Securing the jobsite and reasonable area around the construction zones to sure all loose debris or equipment is removed or properly secured to prevent damage to the project or the surrounding areas.

Angle-right Cover any work that is highly vulnerable to damage by wind or rain.

Angle-right Create a safety zone around the project or building, remove combustible or loose materials and keep the volume of vegetation to a minimum.

Angle-right Make sure your offices and job site trailers are properly secured with any copies of records either removed or copied. Back up all electronics.

Angle-right Communicate any changes in planning, worksite activities and disaster preparations to workers, ensuring that all stakeholders are aware and engaged with emergency alerts and communication systems.

Prepare for potential business operations outages or challenges associated with the disaster with a Continuity of Operations Plan. A basic COOP plan for the home building industry should answer questions such as these:

Angle-right What weather events are most likely to affect my business? Buildings, storage, vehicles, tools, materials, and IT equipment could all be vulnerable to different hazards or disasters.

Angle-right How do I continue operations and business functions during or after an adverse weather event while ensuring the safety of employees and other stakeholders? What can be done to ensure financial viability in case of decreased cash-flow?

Angle-right How will I ensure my stakeholders know and understand my plan in case of an emergency or pending event? When will I alert them, using what communications channels to reach them?

Angle-right What preparedness actions, processes, or physical improvements need to be made before an event to mitigate or insure against weather-related risks

NAHB publishes several resources through the Disaster Response and Recovery Toolkit to help builders, remodelers, and contractors pre pare for and respond to these adverse events. The toolkit features resources, templates, and videos that have been developed and carefully curated to support those working in the home building industry through all phases of the disaster. Access the NAHB Disaster Response and Recovery Toolkit on nahb.org/disaster.

When it comes to severe weather, an ounce of preparedness is worth a pound of response. Taking the time to work on preparedness and mitigation measures can help builders avoid unnecessary losses, keep their workers safe, and ensure the job continues as quickly as pos sible, no matter the event.

The National Association of Home Builders is a Washington-based trade association representing more than 140,000 members involved in home building, remodeling, multifamily construction, property management, subcontracting, design, housing finance, building product manufacturing and other aspects of residential and light commercial construction. NAHB is affiliated with 700 state and local home builders associations around the country. NAHB’s builder members will construct about 80% of the new housing units projected for this year. For more information on NAHB and membership, please visit nahb.org.

In Montana, severe weather events, wildfires, and other natural disasters can pose severe risks to workers in the construction and contracting industry

Building Industry

ASSOCIATION STANDOUTS

DARCY LARSON EXECUTIVE OFFICER, HELENA BUILDING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION

Darcy embodies passion, and everything she does is done with an effort that goes above and beyond, which has not gone unnoticed. As the executive officer for the Helena Building Industry Association, she coordinates monthly board meetings and plans fundraising events such as Parade of Homes, Home & Garden Show, golf tournaments, etc.

Darcy is committed to the builders she represents and leads, and she takes on championing their causes with an unmatched energy that sets the bar high across the state. When help is needed, Darcy is the first to offer assistance no matter how busy she is.

Under her leadership and guidance, the HBIA has started a C3 foundation, Home Builders with Hearts, and this foundation supports builder members and families

with unexpected medical expenses. Darcy has been phenomenally successful in her fundraising efforts on this venture, which is a huge testimony to her commitment and passion for this industry.

In her “spare” time, Darcy supports her other local EOs, supports her family and friends, and is there for her community. She is a devoted wife and mother who can be seen cheering her husband and beautiful children as she supports their various adventures. Darcy has endless energy and dedication, and we are fortunate to have Darcy on our team. We appreciate all she does and wanted to take this opportunity to give her a shoutout! When you see her out and about, please be sure to thank her for her commitment to our industry.

The Montana Building Industry Association (MBIA) would not be where it is without the hard work and support of the local executive officers who work tirelessly to bring members together in support of the Home Building Industry. We strive to recognize industry standouts, and this year we have chosen to recognize Darcy Larson—the phenomenal executive officer at the helm of the Helena Building Industry Association (HBIA).

FAMILY MAKES IT POSSIBLE

The second son born to Art and Joan Harding, John joined in on all the shenanigans that a home with four boys could dish out. John and his brothers remain close to this day. Life has led them in different directions, but when they do come together, you can see that little something in their eyes that every parent dreads.

Family means the world to John. He proudly shares stories about his daughter’s accomplishments and has been known to share the latest photo of Molly and her horse.

John is a devoted husband. He and Pat are in love with life and the pursuit of the perfect day of golf. Their active lifestyle takes them around the world. John and Pat are avid runners. They make a point to participate in at least two big races a year. 2017 found John in first place in the Spartan Run and, of course, he wished he finished with a faster time.

Like many in the building industry, John learned the ropes at the side of his father. He spent all his free time and summer vacations working on construction sites.

BUSINESS MINDED FROM THE BEGINNING

At the age of 21, he jumped in with both feet and created S&H Aluminum. A great business starts small and, under the right leadership, will prosper. John’s commitment to excellence, along with his goal to win customers, but more importantly to win their recommendations, became the motto of his business strategy.

S&H Aluminum Products, Inc. opened its doors in 1984. They specialized in providing a maintenance-free home for their customers.

S&H Aluminum is a trusted company in the residential home industry but is also a dedicated partner to the commercial building industry. The S&H Aluminum crew can be seen throughout the great state of Montana working on all types of construction. Whether it’s bringing life back to an existing home with new maintenance free siding, gutters, and soffits, or proudly providing the finishing touches to the Federal Court House dome, John and his 35-member crew are committed to excellence in every aspect of their business. They take great pride in the high-quality products and services they provide the end user.

The 33rd president of the United States, Harry Truman, wrote, “It is amazing what you can accomplish if you do not care who gets the credit.” It is easy to see that John Harding is the epitome of these words. Vision, passion, and drive are cemented into John’s soul. His determination to set the goal, achieve the goal, and then go on to the next goal without a lot of fanfare would make President Truman very proud.

OPERATING GUIDELINES: LEGISLATIVE SESSION 2023

By Cory Lee Ann Shaw MBIA Executive Director

Every Legislative Session brings with it a plethora of information and activity, and we need to establish a clear and effective communica tion channel that will provide the best information disbursement, as well as a responsive audience that will keep our legislative team well informed and able to communicate effectively with our legislators.

I foresee a very busy Legislative Session this year with our key is sues being water, attainable housing and development, property tax, workforce development, supply chain challenges, building codes, and growth plans/local jurisdictional issues

I believe that there are opportunities for big and positive changes in all areas we operate, and I feel we can make excellent change if we work together and communicate effectively.

The following guidelines are meant to help guide the Association’s activities during the 2023 Legislative Session.

1. LOCAL LEGISLATIVE CONTACTS / COMMITTEE

To ensure that each local HBA has a direct role in the weekly bill review process, each local HBA will designate two (2) local legisla tive contacts to serve as their specific representatives on the MBIA Legislative Committee. These individuals, if possible, should also be members of the MBIA Board of Directors so that there is a direct link and endorsement of all policy positions by a representative body of the MBIA Board of Directors. These individuals shall be appointed by the president of the local HBA or board of each local HBA. These individu als have the ultimate responsibility of representing their local HBA in the industry legislative process.

2. DUTIES OF LOCAL LEGISLATIVE CONTACTS / COMMITTEE

The local Legislative Committee shall have the direct responsibility to communicate policy decisions and policy questions from MBIA to their local membership in whatever fashion is deemed appropriate by the given local HBA and must communicate talking points and positions back up to the MBIA EO. In some cases, this role may be given to the local EO at the discretion of the local HBA Legislative Committee. The Executive Director needs to know whom to com municate with and the preferred channel of communication.

3.UNIFIED MBIA

It is imperative that the industry speaks in one unified voice during the Legislative Session. Once an issue position is adopted by the statewide MBIA Legislative Committee, as detailed below, that position should not be reversed within MBIA or publicly contradicted by any local HBA.

4. LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE MEETINGS

The MBIA Legislative Committee will meet periodically during the most active parts of the Session to review current issues and pending bill questions. While the meetings will be open to any MBIA member, all local legislative contacts / committee appointees are urged to attend.

Leading up to session starting in July—October the Government Affairs Chair and EO will have monthly calls until the November elec tions are in, at which time there will be calls with the entire committee to discuss strategy, etc. These committee calls will take place on

We know the building industry is a diverse industry with many members spread across a large state, and I choose to view this as an opportunity rather than a challenge or problem as has been the viewpoint in the past. Diversity is inherently resourceful, and I feel we have what it takes to bring the best solutions to the table in a time where we need solutions—not problems.

November 17th at 3pm and December 15th at 3pm. These calls will, be to identify our champions, strategy, and opportunities. As a ote, bills will begin to drop in December.

Starting January 3, a weekly conference call will be held during legislative working group meetings to review any major develop ments and recommendations from the committee. At this time, we will plan on the conference calls taking place every Tuesday morn ing at 7am during the legislative session.

5. BILL STATUS REPORTS

Prior to each meeting, the MBIA executive Director will email to des ignated local legislative contacts, each local EO, and MBIA Executive Committee a bill status report, a summary of key decisions made, and description of any major pending issues requiring input. It is the responsibility of the local legislative contacts / committee or local EO to distribute this material to members as appropriate.

6. ASSOCIATION AUTHORITY FOR LEGISLATIVE NEGOTIATIONS

Due to the fast pace of the Legislature, the nature of negotiations in the legislative process, workload, and the sheer number of decisions that must be made, the executive director and appointed Legislative Committee must be empowered with certain discretion to be effective. MBIA is dependent on the judgment of their Executive Director to know when further policy discussions are necessary with the Legislative Committee or the MBIA Executive Committee. There should also be discretion as to what bills rate in priority. At MBIA that discretion lies with the Executive Director and the Legislative Committee as time permits.

a. For many legislative decisions, previous Board policy will allow the Executive Director to make the necessary calls. This is necessary to keep the process moving at the pace set by the Legislature.

b. In the area of technical issues or mid-level policy questions, the Executive Director will exercise discretion to consult with representatives of the Legislative Committee as to the appropriate posture.

c. No member of the Association shall speak on behalf of the Association or represent themselves as presenting the views of the Association without prior knowledge and approval of the Executive Director. The Executive Director shall be the central coordinator of all Association testimony, positions, and strategy.

7. COMMUNICATION WITH LEGISLATORS

At times during the Session, it is necessary to activate a grassroots telephone tree or email alert and/or stacking of public hearings with members. Each local HBA is responsible for establishing their own system for responding to such requests from MBIA. A single key contact is often more effective than a mass of letters or phone calls, so if we have members with close legislative relationships, it is often better that they make the direct call, and this will be left to the local HBA’s to implement.

8. BILL DISTRIBUTION

It is recommended that the local EO, local legislative contacts, and any interested MBIA members learn how to use the State Computer Bulletin Board Service. If you have interest in a specific bill or the status of a particular bill or for up-to-date information about the legislative proceedings and legislative information, log onto the LAWS system for the 2023 session at: (Link to be provided when available. We will set up a member link separate from the working MBIA link and will update passwords as needed.)

9. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR COMMUNICATIONS

I have made a commitment to be available and reachable. My cell phone is 406.603.0613, and I welcome text messages or calls .

MBIA ADVOCACY AND WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOU

WATER: We hold the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation accountable to preserving the rights of Montanans for access to our most abundant natural resource, which is essential for clean and healthy living. We need a streamlined and more transparent new appropriation process, we want adjudication completed, and we maintain that exempt wells are a necessity for development.

TAXES: We aim to keep our government in line when it comes to raising property taxes to fuel uncontrolled spending and mismanaged budgets. It is not the sole responsibility of the homeowner or landowner to foot bad spending due to poor government policy and we are here to stand for our homeowners and builders in effort to keep housing attainable.

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT: Through our newly (in progress) formed Foundation, we aim to bring safety, education, and job opportunities to our future generations. We strive to leave a lasting legacy to those who come behind us as we preserve access to good job opportunities, safe and educational work environments, and provide opportunity for those who choose a non-traditional career path.

SUPPLY CHAIN: We are tired of the excuses for the lack in product availability and the increase in costs of doing business. We support buying American. We support better foreign policy. We support American jobs. We support small business incentives and relief. All of which will improve our supply chain woes and reduce the cost of building a home.

BUILDING CODES: We work closely with the Department of Labor and Industry on building code regulation and reform. We bring common sense and real-world application to the table when we fight for changes to adopted codes. We push back when code changes are restrictive, unnecessary, and unrealistic.

LOCAL, STATE, AND FEDERAL: Subdivision review is taking too long. Duplicative and complicated governmental processes delay progress. Growth policies are not being followed. Rules are being violated and development is being unnecessarily delayed. All of this adds to the cost of building a home. We take on local and state agencies, holding them accountable and ensure housing attainability.

DID YOU KNOW? INTERNATIONAL WILDLAND URBAN INTERFACE CODE

Did you know that:

Angle-right The state of Montana has adopted a wildland urban interface code.

Angle-right That code could impact your business.

Angle-right That the deletions listed below on the ARM are required to be followed by any local Certified City County or Town Building Code Program.

Angle-right That if a county or municipality are not certified as a Building Codes Program, they cannot adopt or enforce the IWUI code.

Angle-right That the DLI oversees building code adoption, and the IWUIC is part of their oversight.

DLI adopted the 2021 Code under ARM 24.301.81 and the code was adopted with exceptions as listed:

(1) The department adopts and incorporates by reference the International Wildland-Urban Interface Code, 2021 edition, published by the International Code Council, unless another edition is specifically stated, together with Appendix “B” (Vegetation Management Plan) and Appendix “C” (Fire Hazard Severity Form).

(2) Section 302 is deleted in its entirety and replaced with the following:

“The governmental body or some other official state or local agency shall declare the wildland-urban interface areas within the jurisdiction. Such declaration or designation shall be based on findings of fact or some other process already completed such as mapping, boundary designations, or other informative processes such as wildland fire plans. Cities, counties, and towns that have adopted the International Building Code or the International Residential Code in connection with their certification to enforce building codes will, if they elect to enforce the International WildlandUrban Interface Code, record the official wildland-urban interface areas on maps available for inspection by the public.

(3) Chapter 4 is deleted in its entirety.

(4) Subsection 101.2, Scope, is modified by:

(a) Deleting the first sentence and replacing with: “The provisions of this code shall apply to the construction, alteration, movement, repair, addition, change-of-use or remodeling of any building, structure, or premises within the designated wildland-urban interface within the jurisdiction.”

(5) Subsection 101.4, Retroactivity, is deleted in its entirety.

(6) Subsection 101.5, Additions or Alterations, delete the written exception.

(7) Subsection 101.6, Maintenance, is deleted in its entirety.

(8) Subsection 102.6, Existing Conditions, is modified by: (a) Deleting “International Property Maintenance Code.”

(9) Section 103, Enforcement Agency, is deleted in its entirety.

(10) Subsection 107.2, Permits Required, retain the first sentence and delete the remainder of the subsection.

(11) Subsection 110.4.4, Citations, is deleted in its entirety.

(12) Subsection 110.4.5, Unsafe Conditions, is deleted in its entirety.

(13) Subsection 110.4.5.1, Record, is deleted in its entirety.

(14) Subsection 110.4.5.2, Notice, is deleted in its entirety.

(15) Subsection 110.4.5.2.1, Method of Service, is deleted in its entirety.

(16) Subsection 110.4.5.3, Placarding, is deleted in its entirety.

(17) Subsection 110.4.5.3.1, Placard Removal, is deleted in its entirety.

(18) Subsection 110.4.5.4, Abatement, is deleted in its entirety.

(19) Subsection 110.4.5.5, Summary Abatement, is deleted in its entirety.

(20) Subsection 110.4.5.6, Evacuation, is deleted in its entirety.

(21) Replace Table 503.1 “Ignition-Resistant Construction” with the one below:

Fire Hazard Severity

DEFENSIBLE SPACE

Moderate Hazard High Hazard Extreme Hazard

Nonconforming IR2 IR1 IR1 N.C.

Conforming IR3 IR2 IR1

1.5 X Conforming Not Required IR3 IR2

(22) Section 602, Automatic Sprinkler Systems, is deleted in its entirety.

(23) Section 604, Maintenance of Defensible Space, is deleted in its entirety.

(24) The IWUIC adopted by reference in (1) is a nationally recognized model code setting forth minimum standards and requirements for the safeguarding of life and property. A copy of the IWUIC may be obtained from the International Code Council at www.ICCSafe.org.

MBIA is on LinkedIn and Facebook, with a look toward adding a YouTube channel and Instagram with a unique purpose for safety training to use as a tool for Workforce Development. More on this when I get to talking about the 501 C3. We hope to kick off soon.

Each of these social media accounts will have their own purpose, and they are all useful tools that we look to keep expanding on in the months to come. We hope that you will join us in sharing, liking, and engaging with our posts. You can do so by visiting our website and following the links to the social platforms we have linked there.

Helena Insulation,

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FOUNDATION

Part of the strategic planning phase identified an opportunity for our association to establish a 501C3 nonprofit. The purpose of this nonprofit branch of the MBIA would be to expand our fundraising and grant opportunities as we support our expanded mission.

The foundation will provide for the ability for our association to fundraise for these areas of focus:

WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

An example is providing for the ability to take scholarship applications for those who want to enter the trades for equipment, clothing, training, etc. This will also apply to expanding apprenticeship programs into the schools with job placement among membership.

LEGACY DONATIONS

Our members will be able to leave a legacy to the foundation so that future scholarships can be awarded in their name, establish security in the association, and provide for future endeavors.

OTHER UNDEREXPLORED OPTIONS

We will be able to expand this to assist our local associations with some of their initiatives, encourage underrepresented demographics in construction to enter the workforce, partner with other foundations, etc.

TRENCHING SAFETY: Five Things You Should Know to Keep Workers Safe

Trenching and excavation are among the most hazardous operations on a construction site. Threats to worker safety can include falls, falling loads, toxic exposures, equipment accidents, and the risk of being buried by thousands of pounds of soil. Fatalities and serious injuries are preventable with safe work practices and by ensuring required safety protections are fully in place every time workers step down into or work near a trench. Here are five things you should know to keep workers safe in and near trenches.

1. ENSURE THERE’S A SAFE WAY TO ENTER AND EXIT.

Provide workers a safe entrance and exit to reduce or eliminate falls. Means of egress shall be located to require no more than 25 feet of lateral travel for workers to exit. See OSHA Standard 1926.651(c) Access and egress.

2. TRENCHES MUST HAVE CAVE-IN PROTECTION.

Trenches five feet deep or greater require a protective system to prevent a cave-in or collapse. Trenches 20 feet deep or greater require a protective system designed by a registered professional engineer.

SLOPE IT, SHORE IT, SHIELD IT are the action words to remember when implementing trench protective systems.

• SLOPE (or bench) trench walls by cutting back the trench wall at an angle inclined away from the excavation.

• SHORE trench walls with supports to prevent soil movement.

• SHIELD trench walls by using trench boxes to prevent soil cave-ins.

See OSHA Standard 1926.652(a) Protection of employees in excavations.

3. KEEP MATERIALS AWAY FROM THE EDGE OF THE TRENCH.

Prevent incidents from falling loads by keeping materials and equipment at least two feet away from the edge of the trench.

See OSHA Standard 1926.651(j) Protection of employees from loose rock or soil.

4. LOOK FOR STANDING WATER AND OTHER HAZARDS.

Accumulated water shall be removed, or adequate precautions shall be taken to protect employees against hazards posed by water accumulation.

See OSHA Standard 1926.651(h) Protection from hazards associated with water accumulation.

5. NEVER ENTER A TRENCH UNLESS IT HAS BEEN PROPERLY INSPECTED.

Safety standards require that trenches and protective systems be inspected daily and as conditions change by a competent person before work begins.

See OSHA Standard 1926.651(k) Inspections and OSHA Standard 1926.32(f) Competent person.

Additional information on common trenching hazards and the associated safety protections is available by visiting www.osha.gov/trenching-excavation.

This article is not meant to provide a complete listing of trenching and excavation safety standards, but is intended to provide necessary resources and highlight the need for employer and worker vigilance with these operations.

The Montana Department of Labor & Industry’s Safety & Health Consultation Program provides free and confidential on-site services to small- and mediumsized businesses working in high-hazard industries. Visit www.MontanaSafety.com or call (406) 494-0324 to request a free consultation.

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