The
Construction Times
December 2011
A publication of Northland Area Builders Association
2012 NABA Building & Remodeling Directory Used throughout the year, the Northland Area Builders Association Membership Directory is a complete guide to the members of the Northland Area Builders Association. This handy 6 in. X 9 in. Directory printed in full color on high quality paper stock will prove to be a valuable business resource all year long. This is the book for those seeking services and products for their home and cabin projects. You can be right at their fingertips! Our membership directory is delivered to all NABA members and distributed to the public at various locations throughout Ashland, Bayfield, Burnett, Sawyer and Washburn counties and mailed by request. This is a once-a-year opportunity you don’t want to miss. Ad sales close December 31st, 2011
RATES: Full payment due by 12/31/11 & camera ready ad material due January 15, 2012. To qualify for the the Early Bird Rate, payment must be received at the NABA office no later than 12/15 Size Full page
Early Bird Rate
After 12/15
Inside front cover
$300
$350
Inside back cover
$350
$400
Back cover
$375
$400
Half page
$200
$250
Quarter page
$100
$150
Your ad will also appear in your NABA member listing in the online NABA Member Directory & in each issue of the 2012 monthly newsletter, The Construction Times.
Mission
NABA Board of Directors
The NABA, chartered in 1989, is a non-profit trade organization comprised of building and construction industry professionals in Ashland, Bayfield, Burnett, Sawyer and Washburn Counties in Northwestern Wisconsin. Promoting professional growth to its members, the Association provides the resources to stay abreast of our ever changing industry. Every member of the NABA is also a member of the Wisconsin Builders Association (WBA) and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB).
Past President: Russ Smith, Russ Smith Construction 715-462-4170
To maintain the highest professional standards, our membership adheres to a Code of Ethics, monitors legislative issues, and promotes affordable quality housing.
29148 Mail Road • Danbury, WI 54830 Phone: 715-259-3486 • Fax: 888-825-8073 Email: naba@centurytel.net www.northlandareabuilders.com
President: Ed Peterson, Peterson Construction 715-866-7127 President Elect: Joe Gendrich, Culligan of Ashland 715-682-6585 Secretary: Rick Harder, Northern Paradise Homes 715-635-2299
Code of Ethics Members of the Builders Association subscribe to the following Code of Ethics: n
Treasurer: Jim Perlick, Jim Perlick Construction 715-635-7575
n n n
Directors: Jason Olsen, Peoples Bank 715-634-2674
n
Kevin Miller, Northland Recreational Homes 715-634-6366
n n
Todd Knutson, Johnson Bank 715-634-2611 Jeremy Lindgren, Arrow Building Center-Spooner 715-635-2199
n
n
Subscribe to the By-laws of the State and National Associations. Meet or exceed all State required insurance regulations. Maintain a good credit rating in high standards. Respond to consumer complaints, and act on these complaints in a timely manner. Continue to improve their skills and knowledge through educational resources made available at a local, state and national level. Employ other association members to assure the high standards set by its members are maintained. Conduct themselves in a professional manner to maintain the standards of the association. Comply, both in spirit and letter, with rules and regulations prescribed by law and government agencies for health safety, and progress of the community Have a commitment to excellence.
Tyler Crotteau, Muller Heating & Mechanical 715-859-6888
WBA State Directors Jack Sjostrom, Sjostrom Construction 715-634-4427 Charlie Johansen, Johansen Electric 715-634-3761 Open seat
NAHB National Directors Jack Sjostrom, Sjostrom Construction 715-634-4427 Open Alternate Seat
NABA Staff Jennifer Johnson, Executive Officer
Need Help? Northland Area Builders Association 715-259-3486 www.northlandareabuilders.com National Association of Home Builders 800-368-5242 www.nahb.org Wisconsin Builders Association 608-242-5151 www.wisbuild.org Wisconsin Department of Commerce 608-266-3151 www.commerce.state.wi.us/SB/ Become a fan of Northland Area Builders Association to receive industry news, updates and network with others in the industry.
Appreciating What We Have Russ Smith NABA Past President Our industry has dealt with an economic downturn unlike any that it has encountered since the 1930s. And yet, we have reasons to remain resilient and optimistic as we look to the future. Who among us can look around and be anything other than appreciative and thankful for the many opportunities and blessings that we’ve had in our lives and in our businesses, even with the current economic meltdown? There is a lot to feel good about as my year as NABA President comes to an end. Appreciating Associate Members I first want to express appreciation to those among you who are known as “associate” members of the NABA. You provide the products and services that go into the homes in the Northland region. Without your dedicated support, we would not have a viable home building industry in this region. Nationally, September was “Associates Appreciation Month” as declared by the National Association of Home Builders. I express my thanks to all associate members for belonging to the NABA and for your support of a strong industry and economy so we can build the quality northwoods for which the our region is known nationally. Respecting My Fellow Builders This is a very competitive industry. And yet, through the NABA, dozens of competing home builders are able to sit down together and collectively discuss and define strategies that will continue to foster greater opportunities for success for all of us who work to provide homes for those in this great region. I tip my hat to the builders who use their collective clout and talent through the NABA to help make the northern Wisconsin a better place. Thankful for the NABA Staff The members make up the NABA but we also have a professional at the NABA office who is dedicated and ready to go to bat on our behalf. My compliments to the hard work by Jennifer Johnson at the NABA! Grateful for this Nation and our Freedoms There is no doubting the challenges we face. But I admire those who have pioneered before us, those who continue to persevere today so that we might have the opportunities and freedoms that we do. More than anyone, I salute members of the U.S. military, many of whom are risking their lives around the world to keep us free—so that we have the chance to live a life that remains the envy of the world. So when we tally up the good and the bad, we find that the good not only outweighs the bad, but also, it sets the stage for this nation and our industry to rebound in a way that will continue to give us the world’s greatest place to call home. All the more reason we need to keep the faith and continue to work for progress through our common bond of membership in the NABA!
NABA RAFFLE TICKETS UPDATE Please continue to sell the NABA Lawn Tractor Raffle Tickets that were sent to you - the drawing will take place on March 25, 2012 (final day of the NABA Home Expo in Spooner). Return ticket stubs and money collected to the NABA office - money collected benefits the NABA Scholarship Fund. If you need additional tickets, please contact the NABA office.
Keeping Your Competitive Advantage Ed Peterson, NABA President It may seem counter-intuitive to say that the way you keep your competitive advantage is to collaborate with competitors. And yet, I’ve encountered many active NABA members who find this to be true. While you always hope to outdo the competition, one of the best ways to maintain that competitive advantage is to show up and participate in NABA activities. Contractors and suppliers who are not active in the NABA, or don’t even belong, just don’t get it. I personally have experienced what other active members have also told me – you stay competitive by having the latest information at your disposal. You get the latest information and advice from your fellow NABA members – many of them competitors – as you get to know them and talk at NABA meetings about marketing ideas, new products, government regulations, public officials and much more. These are not imagined benefits. I attend NABA meetings and hear many of the best minds in our industry discuss the issues that I must deal with every day to remain a successful home builder. I also make friends with whom I can commiserate as we battle the harsh economy. NABA meetings can often almost act as your company’s informal advisory board. You are hearing ideas from others who are successful. And thanks to the NABA staff and every NABA member’s affiliation with the National Association of Home Builders, you also have access to learn what new approaches and ideas are helping builders and remodelers succeed across the country. Suppliers and subcontractors (NABA Associate Members) in our industry know that if builders pull permits, they will be successful too. They participate in the NABA and build relationships with builders and remodelers. Associate members include architects, bankers, land planners, marketing professionals and many more who supply products and services to builders and remodelers. I hope by now that I have convinced you that it makes sense to show up at NABA functions. You will learn the most by being around fellow quality contractors, suppliers and subcontractors. All of us face hundreds of fly-by-night contractors who don’t associate with others in the industry. They are not NABA members. They are not on top of the latest and best information. Some consumers hire them. Usually they are consumers who don’t know how to ask the right questions or don’t do a good job researching before making a decision. Through the NABA, we learn what the non-member fly-by-nighters have to mostly guess at. That allows us to run quality businesses that play by the rules and get our share of whatever business is out there. NABA is playing a significant role in organizing a coalition of industry partners to coordinate a consumer awareness campaign aimed at educating consumers of the dangers of using “unlicensed” contractors. Look for this to roll out in the Spring. In the end, it is up to you to run a successful business. By participating in the NABA, you will find hundreds of reasons to help you along that path toward success. Contact Jennifer Johnson at 715-259-3486 at the NABA to learn more about getting involved.
Membership in a Minute Total Members
Builder Members
Associate Members
Affiliate Members
10/31/2011
79
28
47
4
12/31/2010
80
28
47
5
% change
-1.3
0
0
-20.0
Scott Weber, Sherwin Williams Jeremy Lindgren, Arrow Builder Center Spooner Russ Smith, Russ Smith Construction Ryan & Kathryn Hexum, Slumberland Ken Marienfeld, The Stove Works Mel Coblentz, Coblentz Construction Steve Longtine, Longtine & Daughters Construction Joel Anderson, Schmidt Lumber
The full 3 in 1 membership will take effect on your final payment. There are no refunds on this program, any payments made until the third payment will be considered a donation to the HBA in support of the industry. The first payment will be processed upon receiving the completed form. The following two payments are due on the 1st of the following month. We have the ability to do this as an electronic withdrawl from your bank account. Contact the NABA for details.
Multifamily Energy Savings Program Focus on Energy will continue offering incentives to owners of apartments and condominiums. Beginning in 2012, the new program will offer increased incentives for customers that achieve deeper, more comprehensive energy savings. Residential Program Update
Appliance Recycling Program Focus on Energy will offer cash-back rewards to residential Trade Ally team: customers who want to recycle their second refrigerators and freezers. This new program will be available to customers Focus on Energy has exciting changes in store for 2012! Starting beginning in March 2012. soon, Focus on Energy will have expanded offerings to better serve our residential customers and achieve cost-effective energy Upstream Lighting and Appliance Recycling savings. Focus on Energy will continue to partner with retailers and manufacturers around Wisconsin to offer instant discounts and Below is some information on the new programs for the next year. mail-in coupons for ENERGY STAR qualified products such as This is the first of many communications to come and more details compact fluorescent lights (CFLs), clothes washers and more. will be available in the coming weeks. Make sure you receive These offerings will be available at participating retail locations on updates on the programs you participate in, please register your January 1,2012. email and contact information here. Prescriptive Incentive Program Focus on Energy will provide incentives for energy efficient household equipment. This program will build on the success of previous Focus on Energy offerings while continuing to work with trade allies to better serve residential customers. New information about qualifying products and services, incentive levels, and participation requirements effective January 1, 2012 will be provided in the next few weeks. Home Performance with ENERGY STAR 速 The current program model will continue through March 31, 2012 with only slight modifications. This extension of the current program design will allow for a more orderly transition to the new program in April 2012. After that transition period, consultants will be able to perform energy assessments under the new program design, but the program will promote a contractor-driven approach that encourages auditors and contractors to partner together to effectively serve customers. In the coming weeks, a more detailed description of modifications to be effective on January 1, 2012 will be provided. In December, Focus on Energy will be hosting webinars and other meetings to discuss new program design details effective next April, including eligible measures, incentive levels, provision of training and QA/QC. Low-Moderate Income Programs Focus on Energy will be offering two different paths for income qualified customers. Beginning in January, increased incentives will be available through the Prescriptive Incentive Program for qualifying customers to receive energy efficient household equipment. In April, Focus on Energy will also offer a comprehensive program for qualifying customers to receive enhanced incentives for building shell improvements.
Focus on Energy thanks you for continuing to promote energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions to your customers. Information and application forms for program available now can be found at Focus on Energy. Please send any questions on current or new residential program offerings to: focusinfo@focusonenergy.com
RSVP DEADLINE: December 5
Silent Auctions Raffles Association Awards
NW Wisconsin Professional Builder Education Workshop December 8-9, 2011 Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association • 4319 Jeffers Road, Eau Claire, WI $225/person ($130/HBA Member) 12 credits for Initial Dwelling Contractor Certification 12 continuing education credits for Dwelling Contractor Qualifier Since January 1, 2008, contractors and remodelers have been required to obtain the Dwelling Contractor Qualifier Credential in order to pull building permits in Wisconsin. Attending this workshop will meet the requirements for new builders needing the initial training credits and provide 12 continuing education credits for contractors who already hold the Dwelling Contractor Qualifier. Contractors must attend both days in their entirety in order to receive credit. Partial credits will not be available. December 8
December 9
7:00 am Check In/Vendor Displays
7:00 am Check In/Vendor Displays
7:30 am - 4:00 pm Education Sessions (lunch included):
7:30 am - Noon Education Sessions: Construction Codes
Business Practices OSHA Construction & Tax Law Registration fees include: Lunch, beverages, workbook containing forms & templates, education affidavit paperwork and/or continuing education credit data entry
Registration: Mail completed registration form and check payable to CVHBA to 4319 Jeffers Road, Eau Claire WI 54701. Cancellations received after December 1st, 2011 will not be refunded. Name
Company
Address
City, State, Zip Code
Phone
Fax
Email: Dwelling Contractor Qualifier #:
HBA Member?
Association Name:
A new benefit of membership unveiled in July 2011, the Weekly Job Report is distributed to NABA members every Monday. Each report contains a summary of bidding opportunities throughout the NABA region with links to detailed reports containing information on receiving plan documents on the Members Only side of the Association’s website. Members were emailed their user names and passwords for logging into the NABA website. Contact the NABA office for assistance or to retrieve your information. If your membership lapses, your log in information is deactivated.
NEW Member Publications In October, NABA debuted two new member publications, The Home Builder Public Policy Post and The Index. Each is designed to focus member’s attention on two specific topics, Advocacy and Housing Economics. The Post will be delivered bi-weekly via a e-news format while The Index is a monthly newsletter. If you are interested in contributing to either publication, please contact the NABA office.
NEW NABA Partnership - Home Builder Purchasing Program These days every business is looking for ways to trim budgets and save money. To help with this, NABA has partnered with the National Purchasing Partners Home Builders Purchasing Program. This partnership will allow even our smallest NABA member companies to take advantage of special discounts just for the construction industry from Verizon Wireless, Staples, and more. To find out more about the program and how to start taking advantage of the savings, please contact the NABA office for your registration information. There is no cost to join for NABA members. See flyer in newsletter for additional details.
NEWSLETTER ADVERTISING RATES Want to see your ad in the NABA newsletter or on the NABA website? Contact Jennifer at NABA for details. Mention that you saw the ad rates in the NABA newsletter and your ad will run for an extra month - 4 months for the price of 3!
- minimum of 3 month contract with ad to be placed in the NABA monthly newsletter & to be paid in advance. Member provides completed ad in jpeg format. Size: 3.75” x 2/75” $20/month - minimum of 3 month contract to be paid in advance with ad to be placed on NABA website featuring a clickable hyperlink to individual advertiser’s website homepage. Member to provide completed ad in jpeg format. Size: 356 pixels x 271 pixels $50/month
Visit ildingswi tterbu gister e b . w re ww http:// dex.php to .org/in
Many HBPP members are already saving time and money through this program. Registering is free and easy. HOW TO REGISTER Go to www.mynpp.com. Click “Join Now”. Select “Construction”from the dropdown menu. Select “Residential”from the Category dropdown menu. Select “HBPP” from the Association dropdown menu.
For customer service, call 800.810.3909, or e-mail customerservice@mynpp.com Ashley Ahlgrim Construction Account Manager ashley.ahlgrim@mynpp.com
HOME BUILDER
Up to 35% discount on safety supplies and personal protective equipment Specializing in safety support, including first aid, and protection for head and face, hearing, respiratory and hands
Wireless applications for data collection at 50% discount on set-up fees Captures time and attendance, cost codes, job tasks, breaks and GPS tracking of employees
Discounted, contracted prices on over 30,000 supplies and services Free next-day delivery on most standard orders over $30
National Purchasing Partners serves over 100,000 member organizations, and is one of the largest group purchasing organizations in the nation. NPP negotiates discounted rates on many products and services, and passes the savings to our members. NPP is owned by Virginia Mason Medical Center, a non-profit healthcare facility recently named the nation’s top hospital of the decade.
Corporate Discount - 22% off all calling plans $34.99 & higher and free activation Employee Discount - 18% off calling plans $34.99 and higher Select Accessory Discount - 35% (corporate) and 25% (employee/family) $20 Unlimited Data feature for Blackberry and PDA devices - corporate lines only (standard pricing is $44.99) Broadband Access (data card access) discount of 18% off Variable discounts on phones (depending on phone) Verizon Eligibility Requirements: Each Member must be a construction, heavy highway or remodeling company, or other trade craftsman (e.g.: a subcontractor such as an electician or plumber whose primary trade is within the construction industry).
Hire the best people and reduce employee turnover Comprehensive Employment Screening solutions at discounted rates
15% off list price at Sherwin-Williams stores for HBPP members and employees 20% to 50% discounts on paint coatings
NEWS & UPDATES Wisconsin Department of Safety & Professional Services formerly WI Department of Commerce Administrative Codes Changing Administrative Codes formerly under the Department of Regulation and Licensing (RL) and the Department of Commerce (Comm) will now all use the SPS designation for the Department of Safety and Professional Services. For the former RL codes, the letters will change, but the numbers will remain the same. For example, RL 2 will become SPS 2. These changes are effective 12/1/11. For the former Comm codes, the letters will change and the numbers will be increased by 300. For example, Comm 5 will become SPS 305. These changes are effective 1/1/12.
Owners are responsible for alarm installations and occupants have responsibility to maintain the alarms. Owners must repair or replace alarms within five days of written notice from an occupant or an inspector. Authorized inspectors may enter dwellings to inspect alarms when requested by owners or occupants. Tampering with alarms is illegal, dangerous, and can cause serious liability concerns. Alarms must be installed in the basement, and on each floor level. The alarms need not be installed in attics, garages, or storage areas. The alarms may be separate or combination units, powered by batteries, or in the case of new construction, tied into the home’s electrical system, interconnected with battery backup. Installation must follow manufacturers’ instructions. Those instructions are provided with new alarms and usually can be found on the manufacturers’ Web sites. The manufacturer should be identified on the alarm. Alarms used in Wisconsin must be approved by Underwriters Laboratories.
REMINDER: Carbon monoxide alarms are now allied with smoke alarms - standard safety protection in Wisconsin residences. As of February 1, 2011, there are Wisconsin requirements for both smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms in almost all one- and two-family dwellings, regardless of the building’s age. The new carbon monoxide safety net is for dwellings with fuel burning appliances, fireplaces or attached garages. Code language is in Comm 21.09 and 21.097, Uniform Dwelling Code, and Comm 28, Smoke Detectors and Carbon Monoxide
REMINDER: DOC Fines for Using Unlicensed or Unregistered Subs A rule change effective December 1, 2010 will authorize the Wisconsin Department of Commerce (DOC) to impose forfeitures on those who do not comply with certain licensing, certification and registration requirements, or those who hire persons or entities who have not registered or do not have required credentials. In 2009, DOC started to require various trades involved in building or modifying structures to register as a building contractor. However, those that hold certain credentials, such as contractors who have a dwelling contractor certification, are exempt from this registration requirement. This new rule will allow DOC to impose forfeitures on those who do not have their registration, or certain other credentials, such as a dwelling contractor certification. In addition, forfeitures may be imposed on an entity or individual who contracts with another entity or individual who fails to comply with licensing, certification or registration requirements. Thus, a general contractor who has its dwelling contractor certification may be subject to a penalty if the general contractor contracts with a subcontractor who does not have its certification or registration. WBA objected to this rule, arguing among other things that the forfeiture amounts were excessive. In final version of the rule sent to the legislature, the forfeiture amounts were significantly reduced. Under the revised rule, the forfeitures for failing to comply with the licensing/ certification/ registration requirements, or for contracting with an entity that does not meet these requirements, are as follows: first offense, $250; second offense, $500; and third offense, $1000. In addition to authorizing the imposition of forfeitures, as a result of a statutory change, this rule also expands the trades subject to registration to include those that construct, install or alter mechanical equipment and devices such as boilers, gas systems, piping and mechanical systems serving a building or structure. The requirement was also expanded to include those involved in the construction, installation or alteration of permanent devices or structures regulated under the amusement or sanitation code.
Visit www.nahb.org/ma to learn more about money saving discounts available only to members
Wisconsin Builders Association Monday Morning News November 21, 2011 Recall Walker Efforts Begins As promised, groups made up of Democrat activists and labor unions registered and began their efforts to recall Governor Scott Walker on Tuesday, November 15. This effort has until mid-January to collect just over 540,000 signatures to trigger a recall election against Walker. 540,000 signatures in 60 days is a tall order but unfortunately you have to assume that this group will be successful in their efforts and we will be going through another campaign cycle in advance of the general elections in November of 2012. WBA along with groups that were supportive of Governor Walker in 2010 and his efforts to get Wisconsin back on track in 2011 have already been meeting and planning the counter effort to this vendetta against Walker in 2011-2012. May or June From the head of the Government Accountability Board to those running Governor Walker’s campaign, most seem to be looking at May or June 2012 as a date for voters to go to the polls to vote again for a Wisconsin governor.
The Committee to Elect a Republican Senate (CERS) has been gearing up for this possibility for weeks and already have two full time staff members charged with raising funds and planning campaigns in these four districts. Majority Leader Fitzgerald represents an overwhelmingly Republican district and many question if the required signatures will even be obtained to actually trigger a recall election. Wanggaard’s Racine area district has flipped back and forth between the parties for twenty years. Moulton’s district was held by a Democrat for four years and Republican Dave Zien prior to that. Galloway’s district had been in Democratic hands since 1991. As of today the state Senate recall elections would be run on the maps that the senators ran on in 2010, the “old maps.” If they were to run on the “new maps” passed by the legislature this summer, it would have a profound effect on these elections. The Wanggaard seat becomes an overwhelmingly GOP district and would not be up for grabs. The other seats (Moulton and Galloway) change less dramatically but still become more GOP than the configuration that they ran on in 2010. Use Builders Direct Fund Conduit (BDF) For Recalls An important reminder, if you are going to be giving to Governor Walker or any state senator that is up for recall, be sure to make those contributions through the Builders Direct Fund Conduit. Giving to the Builders Direct Fund Conduit allows you to make personal contribution to candidates while allowing your local association to get credit for the contribution and WBA to receive additional recognition for the donation.
Once signatures are turned into the Government Accountability Board they are reviewed and certified (and possibly challenged for their authenticity) before a primary and general election date would be set. The sheer volume of signatures that must be reviewed and For questions about giving through the Builders Direct Fund Conduit please contact Mark Nelson certified will take a great deal of time. Expect legal challenges and the possibility of a primary (mnelson@wisbuild.org or 608-242-5151, ext. 25). election to determine a candidate to run against Walk- Natural Resource Committees review DNR Reg er. This would only further push back the date of a Reform Bill Recently the Assembly and Senate Natural Resources recall general election. The estimate of May or June seems accurate as of committees meet in a joint session to take testimony on today, but any of the above scenarios could push that Special Session Bill 24 (SSB 24). SSB 24 makes a number of changes to improve many regulatory procedate further into the summer of 2012. dures by the Wisconsin Department of Natural ReState Senate Recalls 2.0 sources (DNR). The state Senate is also gearing up for additional recall elections. As of right now four Republican state sena- The hearing took in the neighborhood of nine hours to tors face recall elections this spring. Three freshman complete because a number of groups raised the senators, elected in November of 2010 and Senate dreaded “m word” in response to this bill---mining. Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald (R-Juneau) all face the Speaker after speaker made the claim that this bill was threat of recall elections. The three freshman legisla- a back door way to move forward to get a mine aptors are Senators Van Wanggaard (R-Racine), Terry proved in northern Wisconsin. This bill makes a numMoulton (R-Chippewa Falls) and Pam Galloway (R- ber of important regulatory changes concerning the DNR, but none of them deal with mining. Wausau).
WBA fully supports SSB 24, specifically provisions dealing with streamlining grading permits and the inclusion of Assembly Bill 117 that deal with a streamline Chapter 30 permit and presumptive approval of Chapter 30 permit applications. In addition to the current bill, WBA is also asking legislators to include a provision to establish a process to better determine the ordinary high water mark. This provision was passed during the 2005-2006 legislative session but was vetoed at the request of DNR by Governor Doyle.
interest the worst government geeks (like us!), they mark a dramatic shift to the better in terms of public accountability.
WHEDA loan expansion passed Special Session Bill 2 (SSB 2) also got signed off on recently from both houses of the legislature. SSB 2 was sponsored by Senator Joe Leibham (RSheboygan) and Representatives Warren Petryk (REleva) and Kathy Bernier (R-Chippewa Falls) and will make a number of changes to current requirements for WHEDA loans.
Landlord-Tenant bill moves on to Governor Currently WHEDA administers the small business Walker Recently the state assembly took final action on Senate Bill 107 (SB 107), authored by state Senator Frank Lasee (R-De Pere) to restrict what local municipalities can act on in local ordinances concerning rental properties. SB 107, as amended, prohibits a city, village, town, or county from enacting an ordinance that does any of the following with respect to a residential landlord: 1) Prohibits or limits the landlord from obtaining or using various types of information about a tenant or prospective tenant, such as household income, occupation, court records, rental history, and credit information 2) Limits how far back in time a prospective tenant's credit information, conviction record, or previous housing may be considered by the landlord 3) Prohibits the landlord from showing a rental property to a prospective tenant, or from entering into a rental agreement for a rental property with a prospective tenant, while the current tenant is living there. 4) Enacting an ordinance placing requirements on a residential landlord with respect to security deposits, earnest money, pretenancy inspections, or posttenancy inspections beyond those requirements found in the state administrative rules.
Governor's order marks beginning accountability for state regulations
development loan guarantee program. Under the program, WHEDA may guarantee repayment of up to the lesser of $200,000 or 80 percent of the principal of a loan made by a private lender to a small business or the elected governing body of a federally recognized American Indian tribe in this state. A small business development loan that is guaranteed by WHEDA may be used for expenses associated with the expansion or acquisition of a business, with the start-up of a day care business, or the start-up of a small business in a vacant storefront in the downtown area of a rural community. SSB 2 will change the cap on the amount of a loan that may be guaranteed under the program from $200,000, or 80 percent of the principal of the loan, to $750,000, or 80 percent of the principal of the loan; changes the definition of "small business" from businesses that employ up to 50 full-time employees to businesses that employ up to 250 full-time employees; the requirement that the owner of a small business be actively engaged in the small business in order to qualify for the program is deleted, and the permitted use of proceeds of a loan for the start-up of a small business in a vacant storefront in a downtown area is expanded to apply to a community of any size by removing the limitation to rural communities. This law change may make this loan program more
of attractive to some members and provide another tool to
By WBA Executive Vice-President Jerry Deschane, CAE Governor Walker recently signed Executive Order #50, implementing a law passed by the legislature during the January special session. The bill requires the Governor to sign off on new or revised rules promulgated by his or her agency. The Executive Order establishes a detailed process agencies will have to follow, including a requirement that agencies have to consult with industry groups, including their trade associations, before moving ahead with a rule that will impact that industry. While the details of the rule fall squarely into the category of “inside baseball,� and would only
get financing. Questions or comments? Please contact Brad Boycks, Director of Government and Political Affairs for the Wisconsin Builders Association ÂŽ. You can reach Brad at bboycks@wisbuild.org or 888-285-9066, x16. You can also visit the WBA web site: www.wisbuild.org
2011 - 2012
UPCOMING EVENTS
Date
Event
Location
Time
Dec 8 & 9
NW Regional Professional Builder Workshop - Initial Dwelling Contractor Certification & Dwelling Contractor Qualifier Cont Education (12 ceu)
CVHBA, Eau Claire
7:00 am
Dec 9
NABA Holiday Mystery Dinner & Awards Night
Flat Creek Eatery, Hayward
5:00 pm
Jan 12
NABA Contractor Education Day - What you Weiss Community Library, Need to Know about OSHA Hayward (3.5 ceu)
7:30 am
Jan
NABA Ice Fishing Event
tbd
tbd
Jan 18
NABA Board Meeting
Hayward
5:00 pm
Feb 7
NABA Networking Night
Spooner
5:00 pm
Feb/March
NABA Contractor Education Workshop OSHA 10 Hour (2 days)
tbd
tbd
Feb 15
NABA Board Meeting
Hayward
5:00 pm
Mar 6
NABA Networking Night
Hayward
5:00 pm
Mar 21
NABA Board Meeting
Hayward
5:00 pm
Mar 24 & 25
NABA Home Expo 2012
Antholz Gym, Spooner Middle School
Apr 2
NABA Networking Night
Spooner
5:00 pm
Apr 18
NABA Board Meeting
Hayward
5:00 pm
May 1
NABA Networking Night
Spooner
5:00 pm
May 16
NABA Board Meeting
Hayward
5:00 pm
Late May
NABA Golf FUNdraiser
tbd
tbd