On the Level: 4th Quarter 2023 by Anne Atchison

The Quarterly Associations Publication of: Construction Contractors • Sheet Metal & Roofing Contractors • Fabricators Erectors & Reinforcing Contractors

4 T H Q U A RT E R 2 0 2 3

FINISHING STRONG •

A Salute to Stewart’s Heroes

•

Fired Up: Vexed by Chronic Delays, Cannabis is Set to Bloom

•

Wage Theft Hotline Goes Live

•

Medical Examiner’s Office Breaks Ground

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O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

The Top 10 Contractor Strategies for a Successful New Year

DIRECTOR’S MESSAGE

Loving what I do and no plans to stop. This may be a little bit of a

I am also very fortunate that New York has a great network of

repeat of past columns, but

construction association executives throughout the state. We

heck, I’m old and get to repeat

have meetings throughout the year to discuss issues we all

myself. In my eyes, it means I

face. I appreciate the discussions and suggestions that come

have a consistent viewpoint.

out of these meetings and working together we don’t each

Why do each of us work? I think the common

have to invent the proverbial wheel, we usually can agree on a wheel (solution) that works statewide.

denominator is to provide for

Our associations have a great network of partnerships

our families. Some people

with other organizations such as our county and regional

work until they are eligible to retire and are out the door.

economic development agencies - The Council of Industry,

That’s great for them and creates paths for those that follow

Pattern for Progress - that work together to bring opportunity

them. Some work because they need the income, and some,

to our region. We have county leaders that realize the need

like me, are fortunate enough to love what they do and

and benefit of local business people and local labor working

don’t look on it as work.

on their projects.

Having completed 14 years at CCA, with Fabricators and

Of course, it would be naïve if we didn’t all realize that

Erectors joining us about 12 years ago and SMACNA

doing business in the State of New York is not easy and a

becoming part of our family seven years ago, I still enjoy

huge challenge to tackle. New York is one of the top three

what I do every day. All this from a job I thought I’d do

(depending on which survey you quote) with the most

for five years and retire. The clock has yet to tick. Not that

challenging environments and tax burdened states in the

my job is without challenges and stress, but every day is an

country. Those issues would take up another entire column.

opportunity to come face those challenges and problem solve.

In spite of the challenges the state imposes on doing business

First and foremost, my wife Robin is very supportive (I’m

here, we, in the Hudson Valley, are leading in many of

not sure that doesn’t translate into she’s glad to get me out

the positive metrics statewide because of the leadership

of the house and her hair on a daily basis.) I don’t like when

mentioned above. The county, union, and organizational

people use the cliché “team,” but I have a great team that

leadership keep the lights on in our region as they dim for

shares my goal and vision of service to our members. My

much of New York State, and I am thankful for not only

boards are involved and provide input, opinion and guidance

being able to rely on the people I work with every day, but

on issues facing all three associations and our industry.

for the relationships and friendships I have developed.

It seems history would have us believe that unions and

I enjoy the challenges and opportunities I am presented, and

management are supposed to have an adversarial relation-

I’m still not ready to ride off to play retirement golf with Bob

ship. Here in the Hudson Valley, I can tell you that we work

Kaehler, Bob Ambrosetti and Mike Gaydos. I wish them and

together daily with our local union leaders to bring job

their handicaps well, and much happiness to them and their

opportunities to our contractors and their membership. We

families, but I’m having too much fun to join them.

work side by side in our economic development efforts. Our unions are our partners in our region and I truly believe that we have the best model for labor-management relationships in the country.

All best wishes,

Alan Seidman Alan Seidman Executive Director

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

Advertise with Us

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

On the Level magazine reaches the people who are building a better Hudson Valley. From contractors and union leaders to developers, policy makers, suppliers, and business owners, if they’re involved in construction they’re reading On the Level. rs ntracto g Co orcin Reinf of: rs & tion ecto blica rs Er ns Pu icato ciatio • Fabr Asso ctors terly ra ar nt Qu Co The ofing & Ro Cons etal truc The Quarterly Construction eet M tion Associations Contractors rs • Sh Publication of: • Sheet Metal Cont & Roofing Contra ntracto ract ctors • Fabric ors on Co ators Erectors The tructi & Reinforcing • Shee Qua Cons tM Contractors rter etal & Ro ly Assoc ofing iatio ns Pu Cont blic ract atio ors n of • Fa : bric ator s Er ec

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TO ADVERTISE WITH US OR TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR SERVICES AND MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS, CONTACT: Lisa Ramirez, Editor: lramirez@ccahv.com Millie Rodriquez, Advertising: mrodriguez@ccahv.com DESIGN AND CREATIVE SERVICES BY FisherMears Associates | FisherMears.com PRINTING SERVICES BY ColorPage Marketing and Publishing | ColorPageOnline.com

On the Level is the quarterly publication of

THE CCA OF THE HUDSON VALLEY | SERVING THE PEOPLE WHO BUILD BETTER SINCE 1956

Construction Contractors Association Mike Adams — Board President James McGowan — First Vice President Joseph Perez — Second Vice President Josh Ingber — Secretary-Treasurer Scott Dianis — Immediate Past President Joseph Barone Roland Bloomer Dan Depew Louis Doro Joe Jerkowski Kurt Kaehler Anthony Perrello, Jr. Mark Stier Alfred D. Torreggiani Charlotte Van Horn Fabricators, Erectors & Reinforcing Contractors Association Justin E. Darrow — Chairman Jake Bidosky — Vice Chairman Bernie Hillman — Secretary Daniel Teutul — Treasurer SMACNA of Southeastern NY James D’Annibale — President Steve Mulholland — Vice President Dominick DiViesti — Treasurer Mark DiPasquale — Secretary Louis J. Doro — Immediate Past President Daniel Harden Richard K. Berg Walter “Chip” Greenwood William Haskel Dennis LaVopa, Jr. Association Staff: Alan Seidman — Executive Director Lisa Ramirez — Director of Communications and Membership Millie Rodriguez — Executive Assistant Vincent Rouhotas — Administrative Assistant

845-562-4280 CCAHV.com 330 Meadow Avenue Newburgh, NY 12550 4

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

INSIDE: 16

Construction Starts on Medical Examiner’s Office

NYS Comptroller: Hudson Valley Poised for Recovery

Is COVID Fear a Workers’ Comp Claim?

New Hotline Makes it Easier for Workers to Report Wage Theft

Ulster Welcomes New Economic Development Director

A Community says“THANK YOU”to Our Military Neighbors

In the News

“The Monster” Awakens: Famed Sullivan Golf Course Open for Play

Fortifying Your Site: Tips for Preventing Equipment Theft

Banking Challenges and Solutions Amid an Evolving Industry Landscape

Safety Roundup

Upgrades at “The Dutch” Slide into Phase Two

Going Green: CCA Hosts Annual Golf Tournament

Safe Harbors for Cash: A Modicum of Certainty in an Uncertain World

Who’s next? As Retirement Nears, Your Job is to Find a Successor

Delayed and Confused Cannabis Projects Slowed as Regulations Stall 30

Let’s be Blunt: New York’s Cannabis Biz Needs a Hero

Adult-Use Regulations Finalized as New York Cracks Down on Illegal Retailers

Don’t Let a Budding Industry Go Up in Smoke

Join us...

Share Your Story Ideas Our members are always doing great things, and we want to share the news. On the Level, the quarterly magazine of the CCA of the Lisa Ramirez Hudson Valley, SMACNA Southeastern and FERCA, welcomes your columns, photographs and story ideas for consideration. Working on a great project? Involved in a worthy community cause? Have an opinion on an issue, trend or piece of legislation? Let us know! To submit a story or column or to pitch an idea, email CCA Director of Communications Lisa Ramirez at lramirez@ccahv.com or call her at 845-562-4280.

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

Welcome to Our New Members We are pleased to welcome our newest members to the Construction Contractors Association of the Hudson Valley:

The Bay Crane Companies were founded in 1939, and now, with more than 80 years of experience, have grown steadily, becoming a leader in the crane rental, specialized transportation, and construction industries throughout the

Black Hawk Fire Suppression, LLC are experts at keeping

Northeast. Today, Bay Crane is a world class company

your home, business and property protected, helping to

with a vast fleet of equipment known for professionalism,

ensure you, your family, your employees and your visitors

know-how, and excellence. Additionally, Bay Crane

are safe.

fulfills project plans from start to finish, working with engineers and subcontractors to complete complicated

Black Hawk is ready to handle all of your fire suppression

projects and meeting challenges along the way.

needs with services that include fire sprinkler installations, service and repairs; 24-hour emergency service calls,

Bay Crane is privately owned and with a focus and

and inspections, testing and maintenance. Black Hawk

mission to meet the needs of the very challenging and

is a certified New York State Minority Owned Business

highly regulated New York City regional market in the

Enterprise. Based in Newburgh, Black Hawk’s service

safest and most efficient ways using innovative solutions.

area includes Westchester, Rockland, Dutchess, Putnam,

Bay Crane also brings their expertise wherever it is

Orange and Ulster counties.

needed in the domestic U.S. market. To learn more call 845-562-0232. To learn more, call 718-392-0800 or visit www.BayCrane.com.

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

Welcome to Our New Members

Burt Crane & Rigging traces its history back five generations to 1870 in the slate quarries in the Vermont-New York region. Over the years, the family reputation grew steadily throughout the Northeast, becoming renowned for efficient project completion, stellar safety records, and superb staff members. The company was officially incorporated in 1974 and is now a globally recognized force in the industry. Still family operated, Bridget Hubal and Thomas Scheib purchased the company from their father in 2012 and continue to strive for the same professionalism and quality of service that generations before developed. With each project, staff are committed to quality assurance, from planning to safely executing projects on time. In 2014, BURT received certification as a New York State Woman Owned Business Enterprise. Headquartered in New York’s Capital region, BURT Crane

Pivotal Wealth Management understands that no single strategy fits everyone, which is why every client gets their undivided attention — from planning to execution to follow-up. Pivotal takes a proactive approach to helping you develop a strategy to address your financial goals and objectives, using the most efficient methods available. Pivotal Wealth Management’s primary goal is to develop long-term, trusting relationships and help their clients develop, implement, and monitor an individualized strategy. From managing debt to saving for college to retirement, these personal finance challenges can be overwhelming, but Pivotal’s commitment is to utilize all of their resources to help you pursue and meet your goals. To learn more call 845-219-5162 or visit www.pivotalwealthllc.com.

& Rigging remains a tight-knit team leading upwards of 150 employees annually. The company houses a large fleet of advanced equipment and offers the best of project management, personnel, and industry technology. In 2023, Burt Crane and Rigging completed the first phase of construction on their second location. Phase 1 consists of a 30,000 SQFT warehouse strategically located between the ports of Coeymans and Albany. Two remaining parcels are in the development phase for up to an additional 75,000 SQFT of building space. To learn more, call 518-271-6858 or visit www.burtcrane.com.

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A Community says

“THANK YOU” to Our Military Neighbors

By Lisa Ramirez, Director of Communications

The Stewart Military Appreciation Picnic is back! It was a party so big they had to move the C-17s out of the way, making space in the hangars for rows of banquet tables and family games. In all, thousands of people — enlisted military members and their families — spent a September Sunday eating, relaxing and simply enjoying the day. continued...

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

A Community says “Thank You” to Our Military Neighbors

Staffed entirely by community volunteers and funded by local donations, the picnic was months in the planning. Held every three years at the Stewart Air National Guard Base in Newburgh, the picnic was, like many community events, postponed repeatedly due to COVID, with the last one held in 2017. But it’s finally back, a community tradition fueled by patriotism, generosity and gratitude. And the volunteers came from nearly every corner of the community; local labor unions, CCA, SMACNA and FERCA members, high school students and retirees.

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

A Community says “Thank You” to Our Military Neighbors

They cooked, served beverages, arranged the tables and

activities, a seemingly endless buffet, even the Budweiser

thousands of chairs. The names of their organizations are

Clydesdales made an appearance. But above all, there

recognizable to anyone who lives, shops or works in the

was appreciation.

area, but at the picnic they all donned matching t-shirts, “Thank you for your service” emblazoned across the back. The autumn weather held despite a few light sprinkles, and the military guests - many of whom took advantage of the opportunity to wear their civilian clothing roamed an air base that for the day seemed more like a county fair. There was live music, bouncy houses, kids’

“It can’t come anywhere near adequately thanking them,” said Alan Seidman, CCA executive director and chairman of the picnic’s planning committee, “but it’s our small way of showing our military just how much we appreciate all they do for us.”

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O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

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On Sunday, September 10, thousands of our military neighbors at Stewart Air National Guard Base enjoyed the 2023 Military Appreciation Picnic. ShopRite • The Bonura Hospitality Group Dana Distributors • Pepsi-Cola of the Hudson Valley Construction Contractors Association of the Hudson Valley

Taylor-Montgomery

Community Foundation of Orange and Sullivan

Dutchess County Chamber of Commerce

Access: Supports for Living

Newburgh Jewish Community Center

iHeartMedia

Enviro-Clean

Orange County Chamber of Commerce

Orange County, NY

The William and Elaine Kaplan Family Private Foundation Bailey-Richman Post No. 9588 Key Construction International Union of Operating Engineers Ulster Savings Consigli Construction Walden Savings Bank Construction Contractors Assoc. of the Hudson Valley Sheet Metal Contractors Assoc. of Southeastern NY Fabricators & Erectors Assoc. North Atlantic States Carpenters Sherwood Tile & Granite Riverside Bank Fairway Testing

O‘Kane Enterprises Tectonic Engineering Profex Tri-State Drywall & Acoustical Barone Construction Group Capitol Securities Management Armistead Mechanical John Longo H.T. Lyons, Inc. Sheet Metal Local 38 I.B.E.W. Local 363 Argenio Brothers Rieger Homes Commercial Industrial Construction Corp

Advanced Disaster Recovery, Inc. LCS Facilities Group Empress Ambulance Services RAL Supply Group City of Middletown Advance Testing | Warrior Wagon

Ribworks Ed and Trish Boles Ray S. Pantel, Inc. Goldinson, Corp. Thomas and Carol Losee North Point Carpet Supplies Viscount Wines & Liquor Antalek & Moore Insurance Robert and Vivian Allen Schumacher Systems Olori Crane Service Edward S. and Patricia Schlissel Franklin and Doris Navarra Elizabeth B. Rowley

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

Construction Starts on Medical Examiner’s Office By Lisa Ramirez, Director of Communications

Ground has broken on Orange County’s long-anticipated Medical Examiner’s Office, a sprawling, $24 million state-of-the-art facility for one of the county’s most vital services. Planning first began in earnest in 2020, with a goal of moving the busy office, which investigates sudden, unexpected, and unnatural fatalities, out of its increasingly cramped quarters. In 2022, the office investigated 1,081 deaths and conducted 514 autopsies, and has been operating out of space in the county Emergency Services Center. It has also utilized mobile units.

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Construction Starts on Medical Examiner’s Office

County officials say the project will cost $24 million,

“The new Medical Examiner’s Office is necessary for our growing county and will provide comfort and compassion for grieving loved ones during a very difficult time,” Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus said. “It will allow Medical Examiner Dr. Jennifer Roman and her staff to conduct their work in a cutting-edge facility designed to best serve our community.”

The ME’s new building will be adjacent to the Emergency Services Center on Wells Farm Road in Goshen, and is set to be completed in the autumn of 2024. Plans include a dignified public entrance and waiting area for grieving families and an autopsy room. In planning the design, Dr. Roman told lawmakers that the goal was to create not only an efficient and proper facility, but also provide a welcoming and comforting environment for those who must visit the office for the difficult task of identifying a loved one.

which will be funded through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Orange County received nearly $75 million in ARPA funds through a $1.9 trillion stimulus package Congress passed in March 2021 to assist counties in their recovery from the economic and public health impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The Medical Examiner’s Office plays a critical role in investigating deaths, but they do much more,” said Orange County Health Commissioner Dr. Alicia Pointer. “Some of their functions include collection of data related to the opioid epidemic, child fatality review and prevention, and preparation for mass casualty events. This new facility will allow the Medical Examiner’s Office to continue to do their work with professionalism and respect as they face new challenges and increased responsibilities.”

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BCG is a family-owned, local construction services firm with principal members that have a combined seventy-five years of contracting, commercial project experience and dedication to the owners and architectural firms in the Mid-Hudson Valley. 18

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

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O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

As comptroller, DiNapoli is sole trustee of the NYS Common Retirement Fund; administers the state and local retirement system for some 1 million public employees, retirees and beneficiaries; manages the state debt and maintains its accounting system, and reports on the condition of New York finances. Raised on Long Island in a union household, his father was a cable splicer for New York Telephone and shop steward for the Communications Workers of America. At the Poughkeepsie breakfast meeting, DiNapoli told a reception room full of business people that while New York’s post-pandemic recovery has lagged behind other states and regions, New York was “hit harder and

NYS Comptroller: Hudson Valley Poised for Recovery

hit longer.”

By Lisa Ramirez, Director of Communications

Hudson Valley that number is a less-reassuring 65

“(The COVID pandemic) had a devastating impact on the stability of the economy and the revenue that comes to the state government,” DiNapoli said. But the worst, he added, “seems to be behind us.” Statewide, 94 percent of the jobs lost during the pandemic have grown back, he said, but here in the percent. There are, though, indications of robust job

The Hudson Valley is in pretty good shape. That, essentially, is how New York State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli assessed the region’s economic outlook in his remarks to the Dutchess County Chamber of Commerce. The Hudson Valley, he said, “has all the essential

recovery in some sectors. For example, construction jobs are back at a healthy 94 percent. Retail (77 percent) and health care/social assistance (100 percent) are other bright spots, and in 2022, about 3,000 new jobs - boasting a 6.7 percent wage growth — were created in the leisure and hospitality industry.

noted natural beauty and a highly skilled workforce

“We are in recovery, absolutely,” he said, but, he cautioned, “we are anticipating a mild recovery.”

among its most valuable assets.

Looking forward, DiNapoli said the Hudson Valley

DiNapoli was the special guest at the Chamber’s

offers the perfect landscape for high tech and manufac-

building blocks for economic success.” The Comptroller

mid-summer Contact Meeting held at the Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel. DiNapoli, a Democrat, has served as comptroller since 2007, when he was appointed by

turing growth. Transportation and warehousing, too, offer opportunities.Meanwhile, “historic amounts of federal relief” have meant unprecedented investments in

the New York State Legislature to fill the position left

transportation, roads, bridges and highways.

vacant when his predecessor, Alan Hevesi, resigned. He

Said the comptroller, “I’m optimistic that we’re headed

has since been re-elected four times..

in the right direction.”

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

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O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

Is COVID Fear a Workers’ Comp Claim? Barry Lovell, President Lovell Safety Management Co., LLC. 212-709-8600 blovell@lovellsafety.com

In March of 2020, a train conductor filed a workers’ compensation claim alleging that his fear surrounding the possibility of contracting COVID caused anxiety and depression. His treating psychologist gave him a total disability, finding that his symptoms made it impossible for him to work. Though the medical

presented to it for any given claim.

recognized these circumstances in

In the case of the train conductor,

2017, when it changed the standard

the Workers’ Compensation

for first responders. Section 10 of

Board determined that in a global

the law was amended to prevent the

pandemic, all workers were subject

Board from disallowing a claim for

to the ubiquitous risk of contracting

mental injury based upon a factual

COVID. In this case, as in two

finding that the stress was not greater

others that were appealed to the

than that which usually occurs in

Third Department, the court found

the normal work environment. This

the Board’s reasoning to be sound,

exception applies to emergency

and affirmed its decisions.

medical technicians, dispatchers,

What kind of work stresses are

paramedics, and firefighters.

greater than normal and have been

In the 2022 legislative session, the

found to lead to compensable

Senate and the Assembly passed

disallowed the claim.

injuries? In one claim the Board held

a bill that would have extended

The New York Workers’

that a person trapped in an elevator

the exception carved out for first

for an hour experienced stress that

responders to the entire labor force.

was greater than normal. In another

New York Governor Kathy Hochul

claim, the appellate court found that

vetoed this bill, arguing that the

requiring an employee to engage in

costs of the bill were potentially

deceptive or illegal practices could

very high, and were more properly

be considered to have subjected an

considered in the budget bill. The

employee to exceptional stress. In

bill passed the Senate in 2023, but

this case, a department store worker

failed to pass the Assembly again.

evidence was not in dispute, the workers’ compensation law judge

Compensation System has long recognized the possibility that stressful situations at work can trigger debilitating mental injuries. But not all types of stress. In order for a mental injury to be compensable, the stress that caused it must be considered to be greater than the normal stress at work experienced by similarly situated workers. The Workers’ Compensation Board, in its role as the finder of facts, determines whether workplace stress is unusual based upon the evidence

was directed by their supervisor to fabricate orders.

So while it is possible to file a claim for a psychological disability, that

This standard, while clearly not

disability must be caused by

preventing claims caused by mental

extraordinary circumstances, not the

stress, sets a high bar for those

routine stresses experienced by all

whose jobs routinely involve very

workers in a particular occupation.

stressful situations. The legislature

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NYS Attorney General Letitia James reports that in the past two years, her office has returned $15 million to more than 15,000 victims of wage theft.

New Hotline Makes it Easier for Workers to Report Wage Theft By Lisa Ramirez, Director of Communications Reporting wage theft in New York just got easier with

project, set to be completed before the end of 2023, will

the launch of a new hotline and upgrades to the online

also provide the Labor Department with real time data,

reporting system.

enhancing its ability to analyze and identify violation

The enhancements to the reporting process will further enhance the success of the Wage Theft Task Force,

trends and building upon ongoing efforts to improve transparency and accountability in state government.

a coordinated effort between the New York State

“Our investigators, district attorneys, and law

Department of Labor, the New York State Attorney

enforcement agencies across the state are pursuing bad

General, and District Attorneys across the state.

actors who look to cheat hardworking New Yorkers

The Wage Theft Hotline (833-910-4378) went live this summer, making it easy for New Yorkers to report wage theft directly to the state Department of Labor. Interpretation services are available in several languages. At the same time, the online wage theft reporting system is undergoing improvements. Via the enhanced Worker Protection Management System, workers can report claims online in multiple languages and receive updates about the status of their claim, all while protecting their privacy and safety. The $10 million 24

out of what they’re owed,” said Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon. “My message to unscrupulous employers is clear. We will not tolerate the mistreatment of workers. If you violate our labor laws, we will find you and hold you accountable.” The Task Force has secured felony convictions and agreements from more than a dozen businesses and 265 individuals to pay nearly $3 million in wage restitution and contributions owed to New York since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

New Hotline Makes it Easier for Workers to Report Wage Theft

New York Governor Hochul also recently signed legislation (S2832-A/A154-A) sponsored by Democratic Senator Neil Breslin and Queens Democratic Assemblywoman Catalina Cruz, designating employer wage theft as a form of larceny. The bill aims to create heftier criminal penalties for employers who steal wages from workers. “We must ensure we are protecting workers and guarantee they receive the pay they are owed,” Hochul said. “I am proud that we are doubling down on our efforts in order to help more workers and make it clear that in New York, wage theft will never be tolerated.”

“For too long and too often, greedy employers have preyed upon these same workers, cheating them out of the wages they have rightfully earned,” James said. Here are a few who’ve been caught: September 2020: Jagdep Deol pleaded guilty to failure to pay a prevailing wage on behalf of his company, Laser Electrical Contracting. This is a felony charge for withholding more than $1.5 million in prevailing wages from 11 employees on projects for the NYC School Construction Authority and the NYC Department of

Organized labor has applauded the stepped-up efforts to

Education. As part of a plea agreement, Deol is required

crack down hard on wage theft.

to make full restitution to the victims and will reimburse

“All blue collar workers are impacted by wage theft, and all blue collar workers deserve to be paid the wages they have earned,” said Bill Banfield, Assistant to the

New York City $160,000 in investigation costs. Deol also pled guilty to a misdemeanor violation of the state’s Prevailing Wage Labor Law. (Queens)

Executive Secretary-Treasurer, North Atlantic States

August 2021: Joseph Fregosi of Fregosi Landscaping

Regional Council of Carpenters. “When unscrupulous

pleaded guilty to Willful Failure to Pay Prevailing

contractors cheat their workers, they also cheat on their

Wage, first degree Falsifying Business Records, and

taxes – and that impacts every honest taxpayer in the

third degree Perjury for falsifying payroll reports for

state. Stopping wage theft is good for the construction

failing to pay two workers prevailing wage on a Putnam

industry, it’s good for blue collar workers and it’s good

County construction project. Fregosi will pay $46,800

for New York’s economy.”

in restitution to the victims. (Putnam)

New York State Attorney General Letitia James reports

February 2022: Designcore Ltd. took a corporate plea

that in the past two years, her office has returned over

with a conditional discharge which includes paying

$15 million to more than 15,000 victims of wage

$39,400 in restitution to six employees after failing to

theft statewide. Victims include construction workers,

pay wages and overtime. (Brooklyn)

restaurant staff, landscapers and more.

The New York State Wage Theft Task Force The Wage Theft Task Force initially leveraged criminal laws to achieve justice for construction workers in cases involving wage theft, fraud, and safety hazards. It has recently expanded its scope into other industries and counties in New York State.

Fund, the offices of district attorneys across the state, and the New York City Department of Investigation. The Task Force works closely with labor unions and community-based organizations as part of efforts to support workers and recover owed wages.

The Wage Theft Task Force includes the New York State Department of Labor, the New York State Attorney General’s Office, the New York State Insurance

To report wage theft, call the Task Force Hotline at (833-910-4378)

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

Ulster Welcomes New Economic Development Director Meet Kevin Lynch, Ulster County’s new Director of Economic Development.

a cleaner environment in tandem with a more robust

Lynch, who comes to

Principal of Amantea Nonwovens LLC, building from

Ulster County with over

the ground up a minority-owned manufacturing venture

25 years of experience

in Cincinnati which hired and trained 70 employees.

economy for the residents of Ulster County.” Prior to serving as Director of Clean Energy for NJEDA, Lynch spent a decade as a Vice President of M&T Bank in New York City and five years as the

managing business development and public finance, has worked in multiple roles for various private equity, corporate finance, government, and nonprofit entities. Lynch most recently served as the Director of Clean Energy for the New Jersey Economic Development Authority, where he oversaw financing programs for clean energy, including offshore wind, vehicle electrification, and business loans for clean energy related projects. “I am very excited about the opportunity to continue the work the department has undertaken to support

“With his strong professional and educational background in public and private finance, clean energy, and planning, Kevin will be a tremendous asset to our economic development efforts as we transition to a sustainable, clean energy economy and seek to capitalize on the new economic opportunities this transition offers,” said Ulster County Executive Jen Metzger.

local business while building a vibrant and inclusive economy,” Lynch said. “We are in the midst of an

Lynch holds a Masters of Science degree in Urban

economic transition or a ‘generational push’ that will

Planning and Environmental Studies from Rensselaer

require the need for clean reliable energy, food security,

Polytechnic Institute and a Bachelors of Science degree

and agriculture coupled with sustainable communities

in Public Policy and Finance from Rochester Institute of

and job growth,” Lynch said. “We need to move from

Technology. Lynch takes over the post formerly held by

aspiration to action and it will be my goal to focus

Tim Weidemann, who stepped down in April to join the

on these areas with our community partners to build

staff of Congressman Pat Ryan.

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Delayed and Confused Cannabis Projects Slowed as Regulations Stall By Lisa Ramirez, Director of Communications When Cresco Labs broke ground

Cresco Labs’ 430,000 square

on a sprawling Ellenville cannabis

foot cannabis facility is meant to

complex in October 2022, everyone

include space for the cultivation,

was there.

processing, packaging and distri-

The village mayor, the Town of Wawarsing supervisor, the acting Ulster County Executive and the president of the local NAACP were among the dozens of community leaders on hand as a ceremonial jackhammer was held to the concrete floor of the long-shuttered Schrade Knife factory.

received a $27.99 million property tax break over 15 years and $10 million in sales tax exemptions for the construction of a $209 million facility, which came with the promise of creating as many as 375 sorely-needed jobs. It was thought that by now — one year out — as many as 75 people would

As cameras clicked, Congressman Pat Ryan, who courted the project as former county executive, voiced the hopes of everyone there; “This is a site that was stagnant for almost two decades — finally some real reasons to be hopeful and optimistic,” he said. “This puts Ellenville, this puts Ulster County and the Hudson Valley at the front edge of the 21st Century economy.”

bution of cannabis. The company

be working there.

Take PharmaCann in Orange

Construction, company officials

County. The 180,000-square-foot

have reported, continues. But the

medical marijuana facility in

facility is not yet operational, and a

Hamptonburgh is operational —

timeframe remains vague as delays

plants are grown and packaged,

in New York’s regulatory process

and the parking lot fills daily with

- most especially when it comes to

employees’ cars. PharmaCann

the adult recreational market - vex

had announced a 75,000 square

the industry. This, in turn, has

foot expansion to prepare for the

caused companies to reconsider

anticipated recreational market. The

their New York construction and

expansion — at a cost of

expansion plans.

$20 million or more — would

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

mean union construction work,

Acreage Holding, a multi-state

of Government Relations, said

plus an estimated 45 permanent

operator of cannabis cultivation

in a news release. “New York is

jobs once complete. But it’s

with dispensaries in Buffalo,

expected to be one of the largest

unclear when that work will begin.

Farmingdale, Queens and

cannabis markets in the U.S. There

Middletown, has also felt the

is room for all players, and New

effects of the delays.

York has a full bench of players

New York’s legal adult-use cannabis market holds enormous promise, but so far, a well-regulat-

“Unfortunately, the delayed

ed, safe, and economically viable

licensing rollout put the state’s legal

cannabis industry remains elusive,

industry in a precarious position

with fewer than two dozen legal

as illicit actors fill the vacuum and

dispensaries up and running from

serve consumers,” Bryan Murray,

Long Island to Buffalo.

Acreage Executive Vice President

ready to play the game. Why won’t they let us help them win?”

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

Delayed and Confused

Don’t Let a Budding Industry Go Up in Smoke L. Todd Diorio President, Hudson Valley Building Trades Business Manager, Eastern New York Laborers District Council

New York State has a longstanding

their job done, calling in the union

of movement at the state level to

reputation for leading the way.

trades was the first step. From the

finalize certain regulations within the

Whether it’s embracing and

word go, the Laborers and other

industry have caused hold ups that

bolstering new industries, implement-

union trades began building the

are stopping facilities from growing

ing progressive pro-worker policies,

plant from the ground up – and

and selling their product – effectively,

or enacting bold legislation to uplift

doing it safely, on time and on

halting their businesses in place.

New York families, historically you

budget. Whenever a project like this

can find New York on the frontlines.

goes in New York, it’s imperative

The same has held true as the general

to take in the entire picture. Yes, a

opinions and perceptions surrounding

budding industry is taking root in our

marijuana use shifted.

community. Yes, a new structure is

New York State moved to legalize cannabis growth and distribution, and swiftly created a new state agency to

being built. But most importantly – your friends, your neighbors are the ones building it.

regulate and manage both. Industry

GOOD UNION JOBS for LOCAL

laws were codified, companies were

PEOPLE. Jobs that ensure Hudson

formed, licenses were reviewed and

Valley residents can take care of

awarded and plans were drawn up for

their families, spend their paychecks

state-of-the-art facilities.

locally, and get the employer-paid

And that’s where union labor came in to do what we do best – BUILD. Cannabis production and distribution companies, such as PharmaCann in Montgomery, Green Thumb in Warwick, Cresco in Ellenville, as well as others, recognized that to get

healthcare they need. As with anything new, New York’s cannabis industry rollout has seen its share of bumps in the road. And while so much progress has been consistently made, right now things have stalled out. Confusion and lack

The facilities in the process of being built? Also stalled. The local union members who were on the job? Scrambling to find new work. As mentioned – the big picture. Held-up policies don’t simply affect a company’s bottom line. There’s a far-reaching ripple effect that negatively impacts hardworking New Yorkers. So let’s move forward. Identify the pain points and areas needing clarity. Work together at every level to find solutions, and keep growing this budding industry and boosting New York’s economy. Most importantly – get our union tradespeople to work. It’s what they do best.

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

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IN THE NEWS Signed: Roadway Excavation Quality Assurance Act Gov. Kathy Hochul signed the bill Aug. 16; it became effective after 30 days. The legislation was initially introduced in January 2021 and gained bipartisan support. “Our construction workers keep New Yorkers moving but are often underpaid for their hard and impactful work,” Gov. Hochul said. “I am proud to sign this legislation that will provide construction workers with fair wages and allow them to support themselves, their families, and our The Roadway Excavation Quality Assurance Act (A5608/

local economy.”

S4887), which requires private utility contractors and

Prevailing wage requirements, advocates say, uplift

their subcontractors to pay prevailing wages on projects

local workers and local communities. For every $1

that need a permit to use or cut open a public street,

spent on prevailing wage, $1.50 is circulated back

has been signed into New York State law, ensuring that

in local economies. Additionally, such requirements

workers making infrastructure repairs and upgrades are

promote hiring of a trained, safe and skilled workforce,

paid a living wage and have the training to do it safely

and in the case of utility work, contribute to reliable

and expeditiously.

service for ratepayers.

“This imperative legislation ensures exploiting workers

The New York State Laborers’ Union represents

and ratepayers is a thing of the past,” said Todd Diorio,

40,000 members employed in the construction industry

Chair, New York Laborers’ PAC. “Fair, family-sustain-

and other fields. Members are organized into more

ing wages for the skilled and trained workers who in

than 24 local unions and five district councils and are

turn make safe, fast repairs is the new standard in New

an affiliate of the Laborers’ International Union of

York State.”

North America (LIUNA)

Pleas Announced in Check Fraud Scheme that Defrauded Union Five defendants have pleaded guilty in connection with a

acting in concert with each other, created fake business

wide ranging fraud scheme that spanned from March 2021

accounts to facilitate the check deposits.

through April 2022 and resulted in a total loss in excess of $250,000 to local businesses and individuals, Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler announced

“The admitted conduct of these defendants is as abhorrent as it is brazen,” Hoovler said. “The members of Ironworkers Local 417, and all victims of fraud, should

The District Attorney announced that Turgaud Dubuisson,

know that my office will do everything in our power to

30; Anthony Dubuisson, 26; Robert Geter, 46; Jishid

identify and hold accountable those responsible for their

Forrest, 22, and Marlon Tabora, 26, all of Newburgh

victimization.”

engaged in a scheme of depositing altered and/or fraudulent checks, belonging to Ironworkers Local 417 and others, into various bank accounts. They then withdrew cash from those fraudulent deposits. The defendants, 38

The individuals face varying charges ranging from second-degree grand larceny to criminal possession of a forged instrument. They will be sentenced in December.

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Workforce Innovation Center Coming to iPark87 The Ulster County Legislature has approved a lease

ing, transportation, renewable energy, and other green

agreement greenlighting plans to create a Workforce

economy sectors as a result of nearly $400 billion in

Innovation Center for the Green Economy at iPark87,

federal investments under President Biden’s Inflation

the site of the former IBM Kingston facility in the Town

Reduction Act to catalyze domestic manufacturing in

of Ulster.

clean technologies. Two other major pieces of federal

The center is poised to become a national model of collaboration between government, educational institutions, and community-based partners. All will work together

legislation — the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and CHIPS for America Act — also focus on spurring domestic manufacturing.

with employers to develop curriculum, micro-credentials

“This project is truly transformational for Ulster County,

and apprenticeships that create pathways for local

involving a unique collaboration of educational and com-

workers into good-paying, family-sustaining jobs.

munity-based partners and businesses working together

Three interconnected county offices will have homes at

to equip our workforce with the training and skills

the site to maximize their collective efforts: Economic

necessary to take advantage of job opportunities in green

Development, Employment and Training, and Tourism.

tech and clean energy industries,” said Ulster County

The lease agreement was given the nod at the Legisla-

Executive Jen Metzger. “These are the fastest growing

ture’s Aug. 15 meeting.

sectors in the economy, thanks to state and federal

Ulster County and the Hudson Valley region could see tens of thousands of new jobs in building, manufactur-

efforts to tackle climate change, and we need to position ourselves to make the most of these opportunities.”

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“The Monster” Awakens: Famed Sullivan Golf Course Open for Play The Monster, the legendary golf course and jewel of the now-defunct Concord Hotel, is again open for play. The ribbon was cut just in time for the Labor Day weekend at an event hosted by Resorts World Catskills and marking the rebirth of one of the most noted recreational assets in Sullivan County. Resorts World invested more than $40 million in the project and brought in famed golf course

“The grand reopening of the Monster Golf Club is a milestone moment for Resorts World Catskills as it completes the vision we had for this amazing property,” said Genting Americas East President Robert DeSalvio. “We are proud to deliver on the commitment we made to the Catskills community.”

architect Rees Jones to design the par-72 championship

A shuttle will run between the golf course, the casino, and

course. Jones has more than 260 courses to his name.

Kartrite Resort and Indoor Water Park.

The renovated Monster incorporates holes from the original Monster, which was designed by Joe Finger in 1963 and was once rated by Golf Digest as one of

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water hazards on seven of the 18 holes and greens described as “undulating.” CCA member organization Paramount Building Construction of New Windsor had a hand in the project and was among the companies contracted to construct the buildings that support the golf course, such as the clubhouse and

• Tee times available 8 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., seven days a week. • Sullivan County residents, active military, veterans and hotel guests of Resorts World Catskills are eligible for discounted greens fees.

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The Top 10 Contractor Strategies for a Successful New Year

Fortifying Your Site: Tips for Preventing Equipment Theft The annual cost of losses due to equipment theft is as much as $300 million for residential construction sites and $1 billion for commercial sites, with a $30,000 average price tag per theft, the National Equipment Register (NER) reports. Further, equipment theft can significantly add to the challenge of completing a project on time and in Craig Sickler, CPA, Partner RBT CPAS

budget, hurt your reputation, drive up insurance, tie up cash and credit renting or buying replacements, and cause you to miss out on future business opportunities.

The thieves range from individuals committing smaller, spur-of-the-moment thefts to organized crews who travel from state to state. Top heavy equipment thefts include skid steers, wheeled and tracked loaders, towables, backhoes, tractors, wheel loaders, utility vehicles, UTVs, excavators, forklifts, bulldozers, rollers, generators, welders and compressors.

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

Fortifying Your Site: Tips for Preventing Equipment Theft

While there are no guarantees, having a comprehensive

ownership and potential matches with theft reports

anti-theft plan can turn the odds in your favor.

to help facilitate information sharing with insurers,

Especially if the work site is in a remote location or the

equipment owners, and law enforcement.

job time-frame includes extended periods of inactivity

• For smaller equipment, create a storage area. Assign

—- a long holiday weekend, for example — a

and label a space for each piece so you can quickly and

comprehensive strategy can help reduce the chance of

easily see when something is missing.

equipment theft.

• Disable or make large equipment difficult to remove

HERE ARE SOME TIPS TO CONSIDER: • Create a job site security plan and assign security-related responsibilities. Have your team spend time at the start of a project identifying and addressing potential security weaknesses.

from a site. ConExpoConAgg suggests removing fuses and circuit breakers and installing fuel shut-off equipment, wheel locks, battery switches, ignition locks and other deactivation devices. • Park equipment in a wagon-train circle and place

• Prequalify contractors before hiring them. Most

easier to move pieces like generators in the middle.

theft happens internally and subcontractors can easily

• Create a check-in/check-out procedure. Have

identify your weak spots, says LevelSet.

workers sign out equipment as they use it and sign it

• Have a system to ensure only approved personnel enter the work site, such as photo ID badges. • Mark your equipment with an identification system, such as a driver’s license number (state initials, number,

back in when finished. • Set a policy to report any theft or vandalism to management immediately, so there’s a greater chance of recovery (which happens only about 25 percent of the time.)

followed by DL). This is the only traceable number in all

• Adopt additional security measures. Security

50 states. Put numbers in two spots: one that’s obvious

cameras, fencing and access control systems,

and one that’s hidden, the Great American Insurance

lighting and security guards help deter theft and can

Group recommends.

provide proof should a theft occur. Engaging local

• Take inventory. For all equipment and tools that will be used at a site, create an inventory including a photo, name, description, serial number/VIN, date of purchase, worksite, and who is approved to use it. • Invest in equipment-related technology. GPS asset tracking hardware, operating systems, video telematics with forward and rear-looking dash cams, and geolocation technology as a standard feature on new equipment (OEMs are increasingly offering it) can help

law enforcement and crime stopper groups to report anything suspicious outside of normal hours of operation can also help. • Create an end-of-day security checklist. Is all equipment properly locked away/secured? Are lights, motion sensors, and security equipment turned on and working? Is the perimeter fence solid and secured? Have all entryway locks been closed and double-checked?

you see where equipment is, get alerts when it turns on

• Train employees and contractors on your equipment

or moves, and more.

management plan and security protocols.

• Register heavy equipment with the National Equipment Register, an organization that manages a database with detailed information about equipment

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

INVESTING IN OUR INDUSTRY’S FUTURE

NASRCC.ORG

One of the most important things we can build together is a vision for our future. Today, we’re actively preparing for tomorrow by fostering a culture of collaboration, bringing up a new generation of leaders, and training members with the skills for tomorrow’s work. As technology reshapes our field and the world around us, nothing is more important than making sure that our members are equipped to make the most of an ever-changing industry.

THE NORTH ATLANTIC STATES REGIONAL COUNCIL OF CARPENTERS. IT’S TIME TO BUILD. 46

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

Banking Challenges and Solutions Amid an Evolving Industry Landscape The Hudson Valley, like many suburban regions nationwide, has witnessed a sea change in business operations over the past several years, some of which have acutely impacted the construction and contracting industries. Pandemic-fueled economic trends such as sluggish supply chain Michael Coulter EVP, Chief Lending Officer Orange Bank & Trust Company

issues, workforce shortages, runaway inflation and responding interest rate hikes, and scaled back lending from certain banks have all posed unique challenges to building and completing projects on time and under budget.

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

Banking Challenges and Solutions Amid an Evolving Industry Landscape

Unlike many suburban regions, however, the Hudson

billion in assets and more than 70 percent of our loans are

Valley’s business community has demonstrated

within the commercial real estate sector. With an overall

remarkable innovation and resilience, quickly pivoting

loan portfolio of just over $1.7 billion, roughly $1.1

to meet new challenges and demands. No one knows this

billion of this amount is secured by commercial mortgages

better than our contractors and developers, who have

on investment real estate and another $200 million of

built our region’s solid foundation and continue to shape

commitments support small-businesses and investors

the landscape.

affiliated with a variety of construction trades and real

Complex and Compounding Challenges Some of the most significant and widespread industry challenges coming out of the pandemic were crippling supply chain disruptions and mounting material costs, which thankfully subsided and evened out after great pains. In general, most builders continue to experience a labor shortage as companies struggle to find quality

estate development. We’re invested in our community and believe when businesses succeed, we all succeed. No one has a crystal ball for the future, but having had the opportunities to work collaboratively with our borrowers and understand their businesses – the types of projects they’re bidding on, their liquidity needs and the entire cash-conversion cycle – equips us with some

workers and deal with substantially increasing wages.

important perspectives.

This can be particularly concerning for contractors,

In this environment, it’s critical to “control the controllable,” because there are many economic factors at play outside of our command. For businesses, it all comes down to operating leverage and understanding cost structure:

resulting in increased labor costs, longer project timelines and potential delays. A failure to fulfill a contractual obligation can impact not only a company’s profitability, but its reputation as well. Rampant inflation – reaching more than 9 percent last

● Be scrupulous in the bidding process for new projects;

summer – and the Federal Reserve’s ongoing efforts to

● Recognize certain projects are not going to be

fight back have raised interest rates to the highest levels

accretive to the bottom line and know when to avoid

in 22 years, causing the borrowing costs for contractors to

them;

more than double in a short span. At the same time, recent volatility in the banking sector caused builders’ access to lending and credit to dry up at some small and mid-sized

● Don’t underestimate borrowing, operating and labor costs;

banks, putting additional hardship on the industry.

● Maintain capital and liquidity as much possible; and

Understanding the Industry

● Understand the full lifecycle of a project and lock in

We understand the unique challenges contractors,

profitability, or get as close to it as possible.

developers and other members of the commercial real

The reality is borrowing costs are going to be elevated,

estate sector are facing because Orange Bank & Trust has been collaborating with the local business community for more than 131 years. We work with many players in the industry, from small-business owners, electricians and painters, to home-builders and developers of high-rise hotels and office buildings.

material costs are going to be elevated, and margins are going to be depressed for a period going forward. As a smaller institution, we look at each situation on an individualized basis and believe if you’re willing to dedicate the time to evaluate a business carefully and forecast it accurately, you can prudently grow the loan

We’re proud of the relationships we’ve forged and smart

portfolio over time.

growth we’ve help drive. We manage more than $2.3

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

Safety Roundup Final Rule Improves Injury and Illness Tracking

OSHA has published a final rule requiring certain establishments to electronically submit detailed information about recordable injuries and illnesses.

● The establishments affected by this rule are already

This includes the date, location, and severity of the injury

for establishments with 20-249 employees in certain

or illness; details about the injured worker, and details

industries (Appendix A to subpart E of 29 CFR Part

of how the injury or illness occurred. The enhanced data

1904) to electronically submit information from their

will enable OSHA to access establishment- and case-spe-

300A Annual Summary once a year.

cific injury and illness data and will help the agency identify establishments with specific hazards. It also increases the information available for analysis, resulting in more accurate statistics.

required to collect and retain this information and are currently required to electronically submit to OSHA information from their 300A Annual Summary. ● The rule does not affect the existing requirement

● The rule retains the requirement for establishments with 250+ employees in industries that must routinely keep records to electronically submit information from their 300A Annual Summary.

Public access to the data will further allow employers, employees, employee representatives, customers and the general public to make more informed decisions about workplace safety and health.

● Each establishment must provide their legal company name when submitting the data.

The final rule, which was published July 21, requires that:

The data must be electronically submitted through OSHA’s Injury Tracking Application (ITA) via one of these methods:

● Establishments with 100 or more employees in

● A webform on the ITA

designated high-hazard industries (Appendix B to Subpart E of 29 CFR Part 1904) must electronically submit detailed information about each recordable injury and illness entered on their previous calendar year’s Form 300 Log and Form 301 Incident Report (29 CFR 1904.41).

● Submission of a csv file to the ITA ● Use of an application programming interface (API) feed The ITA will begin accepting 2023 data on Jan. 2, 2024, and the deadline is March 2, 2024. The annual

● Required information includes the date, location, and severity of the injury or illness; details about the injured

submission deadline for submission of the previous year’s injuries and illnesses will be March 2.

worker, and how the injury or illness occurred. 52

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Safety Roundup

The Most Silent Threat: Suicide and the Construction Industry The statistics are chilling and heartbreaking: According to the CDC, the construction industry has one of the highest suicide rates among industries, and in 2016, the suicide rate for men in construction and extraction occupations was 49.4 per 100,000. Each day, some 123 people in the construction industry die by suicide. That’s one person every 12 minutes. It remains unclear precisely what makes construction workers particularly vulnerable to suicide risk, but experts believe several factors come

Preventing Backovers Backover accidents — when a vehicle backs over a worker that is walking, standing or kneeling behind the vehicle — cause numerous deaths and injuries each year. They happen for an array of reasons, among them: The driver fails to see a worker in a blind spot; a worker doesn’t hear backup alarms or the alarm isn’t functioning, or a spotter assisting one truck doesn’t notice another truck. The key to prevention is to ensure that drivers and pedestrians are always alert and aware of the activity around them. Here are some tips to help keep everyone safer: ● Plan worksites to minimize the need for vehicles to

into play, including: ● A workplace culture that celebrates fearlessness and a “tough” image

back up. ● Place physical barriers separating moving equipment

● Long work hours and physical strain

from workers.

● Seasonal employment

● Ensure that workers wear high-visibility garments.

● Substance abuse, especially opioids.

● Designate walking areas with signs and cones.

The construction industry has the highest rate of prescribed opioids.

● Make contractors are aware of all changes in the flow of construction traffic at the site.

● High pressure with risk of failure

● Inspect vehicles at the start of each shift, making sure

A work environment that fosters communication, a

brakes, lights, horns, and backup alarms and cameras

sense of belonging, connectedness and respect can

are working. Check that mirrors and windows are

help prevent suicide, according to the CDC. It’s also

clean and mirrors are set properly.

crucial to identify and assist employees who may be at risk. Some signs include: ● Increased tardiness and absenteeism ● Decreased productivity ● Decreased self-confidence ● Isolation from peers ● Agitation and increased conflict among colleagues

● Install equipment to detect objects in a vehicle’s path, such as proximity detection systems and radio-frequency identification tag-based systems, in which tags are worn by workers and signal drivers when a worker is near. ● Ensure that vehicles with restricted rear views use

Several construction organizations — including

backup alarms or are directed by a spotter.

contractors, unions and insurance agencies — are

● Ensure that workers know the blind spots on the

leading the industry by example and are partnering to share information about suicide prevention. Visit www.cdc.gov for more resources.

Need Help? Know Someone Who Does? Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. 988 connects you with a trained crisis counselor who can help.

equipment they operate. ● Prohibit the use of cell phones and headphones in areas where they can distract workers from approaching vehicles. ● At the start of each shift, review communications signals between equipment operators and spotters with all workers.

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Upgrades at “The Dutch” Slide into Phase Two Renovations at Heritage Financial Park have entered Phase Two, including a new clubhouse and events space just beyond left field. Improvement to the stadium - which many of us still affectionately call “The Dutch” - mark the largest investment in the ballpark since it opened in 1994 and should be complete in time for the 2024 Opening Day’s first pitch. Several CCA members - Tri-State Drywall and Acoustical and Holt Construction Corporation among

The upper level of the clubhouse will boast an event space to be utilized both during and beyond the baseball season. The space will accommodate up to 200 guests and is slated to feature a full kitchen and bar, climate controlled indoor seating, bathrooms, an outdoor patio, and a section

them - and local union labor have worked on the project.

of private, traditional seats that are the only spot in the

“(Phase Two) will deliver player and staff accommo-

for events like weddings, private parties and meetings.

dations that will be among the best in all of baseball, it will expand the experience that we are able to provide our fans on gameday, and it will grant us the opportunity to be open and welcoming to the communities we serve

ballpark to catch a home run. The venue will be available

Additionally, Phase Two will add more seating, a rooftop party deck for groups of up to 300 people, new drink rail seating and new restroom facilities. In all, the expansion

for 12 months a year,” said Renegades General Manager

will increase the ballpark’s capacity by about 1,000.

Tyson Jeffers. “This project delivers on many promises

Phase Two of the construction project comes quickly on

made to our partners, including our fans, the community, and the New York Yankees.” The new clubhouse for the Yankees “farm hands” exceeds Major League Baseball’s standards, and the

the heels of Phase One, which included the replacement of the original outfield wall with a safer, padded wall; a new batter’s eye in center field; the renovation of the right field clubhouse building, and the enclosure of

Renegades, as well as their visitors, will also enjoy

batting cages.

amenities such as a private weight room and enclosed

The stadium, built in just 90 days in 1994 for $8.3 million,

batting tunnels. Dedicated locker room space for women coaches and umpires and a new players’ lounge are also in the blueprints.

is undergoing a $25 million renovation plan that began in 2019 when the original seats were replaced. Initially dubbed Dutchess Stadium, the Renegades earlier this year inked an agreement with Heritage Financial Credit Union, negotiating a contract that included naming rights. “Even before the first pitch was ever thrown at the stadium, Dutchess County has invested in this gem of a county park to enhance the fan experience,” said Dutchess County Executive William F.X. O’Neil. “This latest project continues our commitment to residents and visitors alike who enjoy this park and will do so for decades to come.” By Lisa Ramirez

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The Top 10 Contractor Strategies for a Successful New Year

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

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O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

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O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

Going Green:

CCA Hosts Annual Golf Tournament Thank you to everyone who joined us for the 2023 CCA Golf Outing and supporting the work we do on behalf of our members. Held Monday, July 24 at the Trump National Golf Club Hudson Valley, it was a wonderful day and the weather was gorgeous. Golf is renowned for its power to establish new relationships and strengthen current ones, and we couldn’t agree more. Many lasting friendships have been made at CCA Golf Outings, an annual tradition that goes back decades.

We hear everyone had a terrific time, but some had an especially good day: ● First Place Team: Joe Barone, Alan Barone, Anthony Barone, Steve DiLorenzo ● Second Place Team: Mark Stellwag, Dan Rifkin, Steve Howell, Peter Bell ● Third Place Team: Matt Stoddard, Mike Gaydos, Dan Teutul, Bernie Hillman ● Closest to the Pin, No. 7: Sam Ingber (2’9”) ● Closest to the Pin, No. 12: George Espo (22”) ● Longest Drive, Male: Donte Groppuso ● Longest Drive, Female: Maureen Pendergast We hope you had as much fun as we did, and plans for the 2024 CCA Golf Outing are already underway. For information about sponsorships and securing your foursome, call the CCA at 845-562-4280 or email Millie Rodriguez at mrodriguez@ccahv.com.

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Thank You

A very special thank you to our 2023 CCA Golf Outing sponsors. Diamond Sponsors • Affinity BST Advisors • Barone Construction Group • Beam Enterprises • Catania, Mahon & Rider • Holt Construction • Ironworkers Local 417 • Key Construction Services • M&T Bank • Marshall & Sterling • MDS HVAC-R • North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters • International Union of Operating Engineers Local 137 • Paramount Building Construction • Perreca Electric • Service Scaffold • Tectonic Engineering Consultants, Geologists & Land Surveyors • Tri-State Drywall & Acoustical

Gold Sponsors

• Laborers Local 235 • SMACNA Southeastern New York

Silver Sponsors

• Armistead Mechanical • Darlind Associates • James McGowan and son Masonry • Penlyn Construction Bronze Sponsors • ABM Air Conditioning & Heating • LeCHase Construction Services • Lovell Safety Management • PKF O’Connor DAVIES • Laborers International Union of North America Local 17 • United Rentals

Reception Sponsor

• Fabricators, Erectors and Reinforcers Association of the Hudson Valley

Beverage Cart

• Price and Price Enterprises

Golf Cart

• Advance Testing

Cigar Sponsor

• E-J Electric installation

Tee Signs

• Minuta Architecture • Welby, Brady and Greenblatt

Hole-in-One

• Colandrea Buick GMC of Newburgh • Marshall & Sterling

Gift Bag Contributors

• Bricklayers Labor Management • Lovell Safety Management • Orange County Ironworks • Profex

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Safe Harbors for Cash:

A Modicum of Certainty in an Uncertain World A common refrain today is that people have concerns about the safety of their money and the returns on their money. A couple of bank failures recently have caused people to think twice about the protection offered by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, backed by the U.S. government. It affords us comfort but has limitations. As is somewhat common knowledge, the FDIC covers each individual depositor in each financial institution covered by FDIC for up to $250,000 for each ownership category. If a joint account, each depositor has the same coverage, yielding a total of $500,000 of protection. For many people that means spreading their money around

Patrick DiCerbo Wealth Management Advisor Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company

to multiple institutions and managing those accounts to receive expanded protection. In lieu of that, Northwestern Mutual has created a cash management solution that can deliver up to $4 million of FDIC insurance coverage per depositor or $8 million on joint accounts. This program automatically transfers uninvested cash balances held in a Northwestern Mutual investment account into an interest-bearing bank account each day. The banks involved in the program go through a continuous vetting process to ensure that they continue to meet acceptable risk standards. This is an opportunity to enhance safety, eliminate complexity and earn competitive yields.

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“I’ve never really seen one, but that’s got all the earmarks of being a run!” —Ernie the cabbie to banker George Bailey, It’s a Wonderful Life

It’s been a rocky year for the banking business, and

it’s important to talk to your bank or financial planner to

back in March the troubles of several American regional

make sure your money is properly guarded.

banks dominated headlines. Silicon Valley Bank was the first to teeter, and customers of the California-based institution were clambering to withdraw their money until regulators intervened. Within a week, a second regional bank, Signature Bank, shut down, and a third, First Republic Bank, required rescue. (U.S. regulators took the unprecedented step of backstopping all deposits at Signature and First Republic at a cost of roughly $22 billion.) Then a crisis at Credit Suisse, Switzerland’s largest bank, was averted only when it was rescued by its rival, UBS. Since the spring the banking landscape may have settled, but the commotion led many to wonder, perhaps for the first time in a generation, if our money is actually safe. The answer? Probably. Those with less than $250,000 in an account at a U.S. bank insured by the FDIC have nothing to worry about, and joint accounts are insured for twice that. If your money is overseas you likely have similar protection. For example, depositors in the United Kingdom are protected for up to £85,000 if their bank fails, and up to £170,000 for joint accounts. If you have more

And while a full crisis was averted there could still be fallout. Both businesses and individuals may find it more difficult to get a loan from “stressed” banks. “If banks are under stress, they might be reluctant to lend,” U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen said in her March 16 testimony to the Senate Finance Committee. “We could see credit become more expensive and less available.” But the Treasury Secretary also offered reassurance, noting that customers of the two failed U.S. banks were able to access the money in their deposit accounts so they could make payroll and pay bills. Yellen further reiterated that no taxpayer money was used in the rescue; deposit protection is provided by the Deposit Insurance Fund, which is funded by bank fees. “I can reassure the members of the Committee that our banking system remains sound, and that Americans can feel confident that their deposits will be there when they need them,” Yellen said. “This week’s actions demonstrate our resolute commitment to ensure that depositors’ savings remain safe.”

than the protected limits at any one financial institution

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Earn up to $500 when you open a Business Checking Account with Walden Savings Bank

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To learn more, visit: waldensavings.bank/ businesschecking2023

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Deposit a total of $2,500 or more in new money into your new Walden Savings Bank business checking account. The new money cannot be existing deposits at Walden Savings Bank. Your new account bonus amount will be determined in the following manner at 30 days from the date of account opening: $ 250: New Money of $2,500 to $24,999, $500: New Money of $25,000 or more. Additionally, businesses must be enrolled with online/ mobile banking and conduct a minimum of five (5) debit card transactions within 30 days after account opening to qualify. New accounts must be opened prior to December 31, 2023. An average monthly balance of $2,500 must be maintained to avoid a $5 monthly maintenance fee. There is no monthly maintenance fee for not for profit organizations. All business customers have the option to receive their monthly statements and check images electronically at no cost. Those wishing to receive their monthly statements and check images in paper format will incur a $3.00 monthly fee for this service. The cost for duplicate specialty checks will be waived or may be used to reduce the cost of an upgraded order at the time of account opening. Annual rental fee for a 3x5 safe deposit box will be waived or applied to the rental of a larger safe deposit box for the first year. Safe deposit box rentals and in branch display of your business will be subject to availability. The monthly business bill pay fee of $9.95 is waived when this service is used to process a minimum of one payment per month. This offer may change or be withdrawn at any time and may not be combined with any other offer. New account bonus is subject to IRS reporting and subject to repayment should your account be closed within 180 days

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Plan for tomorrow, live for today. We get it. You are busy writing bids, securing contracts, managing projects, and dealing with personnel issues all day long. But when do you get to plan for your own financial tomorrow and still live for today? We’ll help you plan to do the things you live for. Whether you are imagining a retirement sailing around the world or just kicking back with your family, we can tailor a plan from a wide range of financial options to make it happen. Our team of financial planning advisors can help identify your financial planning goals and address those needs with investment strategies for potential growth. With the full suite of Northwestern Mutual resources at our fingertips, we also assist business owners in developing succession and estate plans to protect the continuity of their life’s work and position it to flourish in the future.

See how we plan. Patrick A Di Cerbo, CLU®, ChFC®, AEP®, MSFS, CFP® Wealth Management Advisor 518.281.8200 patdicerbo.com pat.dicerbo@nm.com

07-1016 © 2021 Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM), (life and disability insurance, annuities, and life insurance with longterm care benefits) and its subsidiaries in Milwaukee, WI. Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC (NMIS) (securities), a subsidiary of NM, broker-dealer, registered investment adviser and member FINRA and SIPC. Patrick A Di Cerbo is an Insurance Agent(s) of NM. Patrick A Di Cerbo, is a Registered Representative(s) of NMIS. Patrick A Di Cerbo, is a Representative of Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company®, (NMWMC) (fiduciary and fee-based financial planning services), a subsidiary of NM and federal savings bank. All NMWMC products and services are offered only by properly credentialed Representatives who operate from agency offices of NMWMC. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and CFP® (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

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9/1/21 6 5 9:49 PM

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Robin Seidman specializes in general HR policy and procedures. rseidman@ccahv.com

Who’s next? As Retirement Nears, Your Job is to Find a Successor Picture it. Your company is humming along, running well, employees are happy, customers are delighted with your work, revenue is good – in short, business nirvana. What could possibly be missing? Developing bench strength is one area often overlooked by owners. By bench strength, I mean identifying those employees who have the attitude, desire and most importantly, skill set to become leaders in your business. They can relieve some of the day-to-day pressure and stress usually reserved for you and serve as backup management when the other shoe drops, i.e. a supplier or customer

illness. And in the long run, they can figure into a succession plan for when retirement is beckoning, or you just feel like taking a much-needed break from being the supreme leader every day. Having a well-defined succession plan is critical to the smooth transition of your business and will be the topic of a future discussion. Right now, the focus is on identifying, training, and coaching those employees who have the most promise of growing into a leadership role, attaining business goals and helping to strategize what the company will look like one, five and 10 years out.

glitch, employee issues, an unexpected continued...

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Who’s next? As retirement nears, Your Job is to Find a Successor

Identify

them a specific task that involves motivating the team to see

As much as we appreciate longtime employees, longevity does not automatically qualify them for leadership or management roles. Nor does top-notch performance in a specific job. What you should be looking for is those team

if they have the focus, charisma and communication skills that can get the team onboard. Make sure the team knows you have put this person in charge of a particular task so there is no pushback from other employees. Check in periodically to

members who are not only good in their position but have

see how the efforts are going – which brings us to coaching.

taken the initiative to learn multiple roles. They are positive

Coaching

thinkers, problem solvers and willing to go out of their comfort zone to achieve goals. Technical knowledge is necessary but that can be learned by anyone. You are looking for more than that. Here are some important skills to look for when assessing your team: ●

Excellent work ethic and performance

●

Team player and the ability to motivate other team members to reach goals

●

Analytical thinking that leads to successful problem

you need for the employee to become an integral part of your current and future organization. For example, you give the employee a specific task that’s outside of their normal job and the effort goes south. It now becomes a teachable moment. Talk with the employee and would do differently. Let them come up with some solutions before jumping in with your insight. Make sure they know

that save time, money or both

you still have confidence in their abilities and even share a

Strategic and innovative thinker with a big picture

While nobody likes to fail, it is inevitable that it will happen

outlook and the ability to see where the company has been and where it is going ●

personal training. Coaching develops skills to the higher level

find out what they think went wrong. Ask them what they

solving as well as suggestions for new ways to do things

●

It’s not enough to identify your future leaders and to provide

Top-notch verbal and written communication skills that translate to excellent relationships with colleagues, customers and suppliers

story of your own where the intended result was not achieved. more than once in a career. Being able to shake it off, learn from it and grow from it is a skill all of its own and one you, the business owner, can nurture. However, be aware of red flags that might indicate this employee is not cut out for your future plans. There may be more than one employee you should be

Training Once you have identified employees with the talents you need to build, maintain and grow your business, training becomes a critical next step. The business owner must combine on-the-job training with management/leadership training. That means talking with the employee, explaining how they can grow with your business and what they can expect for a longtime role with the company. Skipping this step can have disastrous results that may include a loss of employee motivation, focus and interest – in other words, disengagement. That pretty much assures the employee will look elsewhere. Your loss is someone else’s gain. Once you see the spark of excitement, begin a personal approach to training. Take the employee on business calls,

developing. On the flip side, there may be none which then makes recruiting someone with the right stuff a priority. Also, giving a team member more authority and more responsibility can have a negative impact on the rest of the team. Keeping an eye and ear on office politics will allow you to nip dissension in the bud before it gets out of hand and creates a hostile work environment. There is also the possibility some long-time employees may choose to leave because they feel they’ve been overlooked. While you hate to see that happen, in the long run you are building a better team. It’s worth the effort to get your company poised for future growth and successful transfer of responsibilities before it’s too late.

include them in office discussions, ask them for ideas. Give 68

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Thank You!

The Construction Contractors Association of the Hudson Valley is grateful to our Diamond Sponsors for their exceptionally generous commitment to the CCA and the work we do on behalf of our members, our industry, and our partners in the building trades: Affinity BST Advisors

M&T Bank

Beam Enterprises, Inc.

North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters Local 279

Barone Construction Group, Inc. Catania, Mahon & Rider PLLC

Paramount Building Construction, Inc. Perreca Electric, Inc.

Holt Construction Corp.

Service Scaffold Company, Inc.

Ironworkers Local 417 International Union of Operating Engineers Local 137 MDS HVAC-R, Inc. Marshall and Sterling, Inc.

Tectonic Engineering Consultants, Geologists, & Land Surveyors Tri-State Drywall and Acoustical, Inc.

*Diamond Sponsors as of June 30, 2023

CCA Diamond Sponsors enjoy all networking, educational, and promotional opportunities, including: • One Year Membership to the CCA, SMACNA or FERCA • Four Full Page Ads in On The Level • Guaranteed Foursome and Prominent Signage At The Cca Golf Outing • Two Tickets to the Lobster Bake, Annual Dinner Meeting, and Holiday Get-Together

For more information call the CCA office at 845-562-4280. O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

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International Union of Operating Engineers Local 137

JEFF LOUGHLIN JAMES SASSO MIKE MILLER JOHN BELARDI DAVE RYAN JAMES ARNAU

BUSINESS MANAGER PRESIDENT/BUS. AGENT VICE PRESIDENT/BUS. AGENT RECORDING CORR. SECRETARY TREASURER FINANCIAL SECRETARY

Executive Board Ronald Burgess – Dan Calandro – Rocco Miceli – Trevor Rodney Pete Sampogna – Evan Vona

1360 Pleasantville Road Briarcliff Manor, NY 10510 (914)762-0600 O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

Good Deeds CCA members are among the most generous folks around. They’re committed to their communities, and no matter how busy things get they’re volunteering, fundraising, and finding all kinds of wonderful ways to give back.

Notary Service Available to CCA Members If you need notary services, give the CCA office a call at 845-562-4280 to let us know you’re coming.

We’d love to shine a light on these good deeds. If your organization or someone within it is out making the world a bit brighter, please tell us about it so we can include it in “On the Level.” Whether they’re coaching a local team, serving as a volunteer first responder, collecting supplies for a shelter, or giving their time and skills to worthy effort, we want to know.

Please be sure to bring the documents that need to be signed and a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. This notary service is offered exclusively to CCA, SMACNA and FERCA members. CCA headquarters (330 Meadow Ave. Newburgh) is typically open weekdays 8:30am - 4:30pm.

We can’t wait to share these inspiring stories with our On the Level readers!

Go to ccahv.com 845-562-4280 LRamirez@CCAHV.com CCAHV.com 330 Meadow Avenue Newburgh, NY 12550 72

Advocacy. Community. Projects. News. Events. On your computer, laptop or mobile device. Visit. Explore. Sign up now.

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OUR MEMBERS ABM Air Conditioning Aden Aggregates Advance Testing Company, Inc. Advanced Disaster Recovery, Inc. Affinity BST Advisors, LLC Alfandre Architecture, P.C. All Bright Electric AMX Contracting Corp. Andron Construction Corp. Antalek & Moore Insurance Agency Argenio Brothers, Inc. Armistead Mechanical, Inc. Atlas Security Services B. Miller Masonry, Inc. Barone Construction Group, Inc. Barrett Sheet Metal Basec Corp. Bay Crane Companies Beam Enterprises, Inc. Black Hawk Fire Suppression, LLC Blue Eagle Security, Inc. BNY Mellon The Bonadio Group Broadfield Group, LLC Burt Crane & Rigging Butler Construction Group, Inc. C.B. Strain & Co. (A division of Dynamic Systems) Callanan Industries, Inc. Carey & Walsh Casler Masonry, Inc. Catania, Mahn & Rider, PLLC Central Hudson Gas & Electric Corp. Clean Air Quality Service, Inc. CohnReznick, LLP Colliers Engineering & Design CT, P.C. Con-Tech Construction Technology, Inc. Couch White, LLP Council of Industry of Southeastern New York CSG Partners - ESOP Advisory Custom Exterior Systems D & G Electrical Supply Co., Inc D.A. Collins Construction Co., Inc. D.L. Flow Tech Darlind Associates, Inc. DeBrino Caulking Associates Delaware Engineering Ductmate Industries Durante Rentals Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce E-J Electric Installation Co. ECCO III Enterprises, Inc.

EMF Technical Services, Inc. Enviro-Clean F & F Mechanical Fairway Testing Co., Inc. Federated Mutual Insurance Company Fischer Group at Graystone Consulting | Morgan Stanley Ferrari & Sons, Inc. Gillespie Real Estate LLC Grassi & Co. CPAs H.T. Lyons Inc. Harden Sheet Metal, Inc. Hauser Bros., Inc. Helmer-Cronin Construction, Inc. Herzog’s Home & Paint Center Holt Construction Corp. Howard Hanna Realty Hudson Valley Pattern For Progress Insulation Pro Inc. KB Duct, a Division of CECO Environmental J & M Heating & AC, Inc. James McGowan & Son Masonry, Inc. Key Construction Services Keystone Management Associates, LLC LeChase Construction Services Liberty Mutual Link Metal Finishing Corp. Liscum, McCormack & Van Voorhis, LLP Lovell Safety Management Co. M & T Bank Marshall & Sterling Matrix Asset Advisors, Inc. MDS HVAC R, Inc. Merrill Lynch Milliman, Inc. Minuta Architecture PLLC Modernfold/Styles Montana Data NBT Bank Nadoka Luxury Cleaning NEXGEN Protection Services LLC Northwestern Mutual NXG Insurance Group O’Kane Enterprises, Ltd. Olori Crane Service, Inc. Orange & Rockland Utilities Orange Bank & Trust Orange County Chamber of Commerce Orange County Ironworks LLC PCC Contracting, Inc. Pagones-O’Neill Investigations and Security, Inc. Paramount Building Construction, Inc.

Partner Equipment Rental Penlyn Construction Corporation Perreca Electric, Inc. The Pike Company Pittman & Brown, Inc. Pivotal Wealth Management PKF O’Connor Davies, LLP Price and Price Enterprises, Inc. (DBA Melwain Surety Bonds) Profex, Inc. RAL Supply Company Raritan Group, Inc. Ray S. Pantel, Inc. RBT CPAs Rhinebeck Bank Rider, Weiner & Frankel, P.C. RKB Sheet Metal Rockland Business Association Rover Contracting, Inc. Schultheis & Panettieri, LLP Schumacher Systems, Inc. Service Scaffold Company, Inc. Stacey Braun Associates, Inc. Steven A. Scala, CPA, P.C. Sullivan Construction Group, LLC Sullivan County Partnership for Economic Development Sullivan Fire Protection Corp. TDX Construction Corporation Taconic Heating & Cooling Taylor Recycling Facility, LLC Tectonic Engineering Consultants, Geologists & Land Surveyors, DPC Tri Co Electric of Goshen, LLC Tri State Associated Services, Inc. Tri-State Drywall & Acoustical, Inc. Turner Mechanical Service U.S. Test & Balance Corp. USI Insurance Services U.W. Marx Construction Company Ulster Savings Bank United Rentals United Spray Upstate Electrical, LLC Walden Savings Bank Wallkill Valley Federal Savings & Loan Association Welby, Brady & Greenblatt, LLP World Insurance Associates, LLC

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

Join CCA

Since 1956, the Construction Contractors Association of the Hudson Valley has had a hand in almost every significant construction project in the region. With a commitment to providing quality management coupled with outstanding workmanship, CCA members get jobs done right, on time and within budget.

THE CCA IS YOUR TIRELESS ADVOCATE. MEMBERS ENJOY: • The power and leverage of strong relationships with state, local and federal officials • Project leads • Exclusive networking and informational opportunities • Access to the CCA directory of contractors, suppliers and service providers

• The support of the CCA staff • The money saving support of the CCA’s labor expertise regarding compliance, wage and fringe issues, and grievances • Competitive health insurance plans with premium rates not available in the open market • Retirement planning

THE CCA OF THE HUDSON VALLEY SERVING THE PEOPLE WHO BUILD BETTER SINCE 1956

845-562-4280 • info@ccahv.com 74

O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

ADVERTISERS INDEX Advance Testing Company, Inc.................................................................................. Back Page Affinity BST Advisors ............................................................................................... Page 56 Argenio Bros General Contractors............................................................................. Page 37 Armistead Mechanical, Inc......................................................................................... Page 27 Barone Construction Group, Inc................................................................................. Page 18 Barrett, Inc.................................................................................................................. Page 43 Beam Enterprises, Inc................................................................................................. Page 60 Catania, Mahon & Rider, P.L.L.C............................................................................... Page 12 Couch White, LLP.......................................................................................................Page 27 Grassi Advisors & Accountants.................................................................................. Page 39 Holt Construction Corp............................................................................................... Page 19 Hudson Valley Building & Construction Trades Council, AFL-CIO......................... Page 37 International Union of Operating Engineers Local 137..............................................Page 71 Ironworkers Local 417................................................................................................ Page 14 James McGowan & Son Masonry, Inc....................................................................... Page 36 Key Construction........................................................................................................ Page 15 Laborers Local 17 L.E.C.E.T...................................................................................... Page 55 Lovell Safety Management Co................................................................................... Page 02 M&T Bank.................................................................................................................. Page 70 Marshall & Sterling.................................................................................................... Page 51 Merrill Lynch Wealth Management............................................................................ Page 21 Montefiore St. Luke’s Cornwall..................................................................................Page 42 North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters............................................... Page 46 Northwestern Mutual.................................................................................................. Page 65 Paramount Building Construction, Inc....................................................................... Page 41 Partner Rentals............................................................................................................ Page 21 Perreca Electric........................................................................................................... Page 50 RBT CPAs................................................................................................................... Page 61 Schultheis & Panettieri LLP........................................................................................ Page 21 Service Scaffold Company.......................................................................................... Page 35 Tectonic Engineering Consultants, Geologists & Land Surveyors, D.P..................... Page 23 Tri-State Drywall & Acoustical, Inc........................................................................... Page 57 Walden Savings Bank................................................................................................. Page 64 Welby, Brady & Greenblatt, LLP................................................................................ Page 47 O N T H E L E V E L : 4 T H Q U A R T E R 2 0 2 3 P U B L I C AT I O N

The Top 10 Contractor Strategies for a Successful New Year

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