Construction TimesThe

A publication of Northland Area Builders Association November 2011

Be a TABLE TOP SponsorPut your company in the spotlight at a Networking Night by featuringyour products and services at an upcoming Networking Night.

In exchange for a door prize (minimum $25 value), your company will

� Get 5-7 minutes at the podium to talk about products/services� Have the opportunity to provide greeters at the Networking Night� Be mentioned in the monthly newsletter� Have your name & logo on the Networking Night flyer� Have a table display

Contact the NABA Office to signup - limited to the first 3 members.

NABA NETWORKING NIGHTNovember 8

The Lumberjack Steakhouse

Hayward

5:00 pm Social Hour

6:00 pm Dinner & Presentation

See flyer inside newsletter for details -RSVP deadline November 4

Task Force Established to Educate “Owner as Contractor” Permit Pullers

In an effort to educate the general public onwhat is involved when they apply for their ownbuilding permits, NABA along withrepresentatives from 4 neighboring buildersassociations, the Association of Counties,Building Inspectors, municipalities, and otherstakeholders have established a task force tocreate and implement a public awarenesscampaign. The ultimate goal of the campaignis to increase the professionalism of theindustry and protect the public from thepotential hazards of using unqualifiedcontractors. Since January 1, 2008,contractors and remodelers have beenrequired to obtain the Dwelling ContractorQualifier credential in order to pull building

permits in Wisconsin. However, property owners are able to pull building permits for construction orremodeling projects on their own property. Too often, property owners often do not realize theresponsibilities and liability they are assuming as the applicant on a building permit. To submitsuggestions on what should be included in the campaign and how best to reach potential “owner ascontractor” permit pullers, please contact Jennifer at 715-259-3486 or naba@centurytel.net

NABA Board of Directors

Past President:Russ Smith, Russ Smith Construction715-462-4170

President:Ed Peterson, Peterson Construction715-866-7127

President Elect:Joe Gendrich, Culligan of Ashland715-682-6585

Secretary:Rick Harder, Northern Paradise Homes715-635-2299

Treasurer:Jim Perlick, Jim Perlick Construction715-635-7575

Directors:Jason Olsen, Peoples Bank715-634-2674

Kevin Miller, Northland Recreational Homes715-634-6366

Todd Knutson, Johnson Bank715-634-2611

Jeremy Lindgren, Arrow Building Center-Spooner715-635-2199

Tyler Crotteau, Muller Heating & Mechanical715-859-6888

WBA State DirectorsJack Sjostrom, Sjostrom Construction715-634-4427

Charlie Johansen, Johansen Electric715-634-3761

Open seat

NAHB National DirectorsJack Sjostrom, Sjostrom Construction715-634-4427

Open Alternate Seat

NABA StaffJennifer Johnson, Executive Officer

29148 Mail Road • Danbury, WI 54830

Phone: 715-259-3486 • Fax: 888-825-8073

Email: naba@centurytel.net

www.northlandareabuilders.com

Code of Ethics

Members of the Builders Association subscribe to the followingCode of Ethics:

n Subscribe to the By-laws of the State and NationalAssociations.

n Meet or exceed all State required insurance regulations.n Maintain a good credit rating in high standards.n Respond to consumer complaints, and act on these

complaints in a timely manner.n Continue to improve their skills and knowledge through

educational resources made available at a local, state andnational level.

n Employ other association members to assure the highstandards set by its members are maintained.

n Conduct themselves in a professional manner to maintainthe standards of the association.

n Comply, both in spirit and letter, with rules and regulationsprescribed by law and government agencies for healthsafety, and progress of the community

n Have a commitment to excellence.

MissionThe NABA, chartered in 1989, is a non-profit trade organizationcomprised of building and construction industry professionals inAshland, Bayfield, Burnett, Sawyer and Washburn Counties inNorthwestern Wisconsin. Promoting professional growth to itsmembers, the Association provides the resources to stay abreast ofour ever changing industry. Every member of the NABA is also amember of the Wisconsin Builders Association (WBA) and theNational Association of Home Builders (NAHB).

To maintain the highest professional standards, our membershipadheres to a Code of Ethics, monitors legislative issues, andpromotes affordable quality housing.

Need Help?Northland Area Builders Association 715-259-3486

www.northlandareabuilders.comNational Association of Home Builders 800-368-5242

www.nahb.orgWisconsin Builders Association 608-242-5151

www.wisbuild.orgWisconsin 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.

TotalMembers

BuilderMembers

AssociateMembers

AffiliateMembers

9/31/2011 79 27 48 4

12/31/2010 80 28 47 5

% change -1.3 -3.6 2.1 -20

Membership in a Minute

Scott Weber, Sherwin WilliamsJeremy Lindgren, Arrow Builder Center SpoonerRuss Smith, Russ Smith ConstructionRyan & Kathryn Hexum, SlumberlandKen Marienfeld, The Stove Works

Al Fuller, Al Fuller Garage Doors

Travis Butterfield, Butterfield Inc.Brian Duffy, Northwoods Stove & Fireplace

Bill Cadotte, Chippewa Wood CraftersFred Scheer, A Cabin in Hayward

Kurt Proctor, CBS ConstructionLonnie Vreeland, J & L Painting

none

Dan Hinman, Don Johnson Auto GroupDeb Hitchcock-Gale, Coldwell Banker LakesideRealty

Ron Kirk, Acme ToolsJohn Solofra, Bergeman PlumbingBill Otterson, Hardwood Floors and MoreNick Kendyall, Northern Lakes Coop

Duane Hoef, Hoefs Construction

Jeff Homuth, Hayward MercantileJosh Peck, Peck Construction

none

The NABA Board of Directors approved the following new member applications last month. If any current NABA member hasreason why this application should not be accepted, please state in writing your reason membership should be denied andmail to be received by 9/10/11 at the NABA office. Bylaws state that we must submit new applications before the generalmembership for one newsletter.

New Member Spotlight

Woita & Associates is a financial services practice specializing in business and retirement planning. We work with clientswho share values similar to ours of character and integrity, and who are willing to make a commitment to planning fortheir financial future. Our goal for each client is to guide you through your business or retirement planning and establisha long-term relationship that can provide you value for years to come.

Serving Wisconsin's Eau Claire and Chippewa Valley area, we are a financial services practice that is passionate anddevoted to helping you reach your financial goals. We look forward to working with you and being a part of your financialjourney.

Woita & Associates provides a number of customized services to individuals to help you strengthen your personal orbusiness financial stability.

Personal BusinessPersonal Financial Planning Business PlanningRetirement Planning Buy/Sell AgreementsInvestments / IRAs / Roth IRAs Succession PlanningEstate & Wealth Management Strategies Employee Sponsored Retirement PlansLife Insurance Informal Business ValuationLoss of Income / Disability Income Insurance Business Buyout StrategiesAnnuities Employer / Employee BenefitsLong-Term Care Insurance Group Medical InsuranceCollege Planning Vehicles Group Life InsuranceMedical Insurance Group Disability Insurance

211 Harvest Lane, Suite 1 • Altoona, WI 54720 • Phone 715-834-7240Email woita.paul@princor.com • www.woitaplanning.com

A new benefit of membership unveiled in July 2011, theWeekly Job Report is distributed to NABA members everyMonday. Each report contains a summary of biddingopportunities throughout the NABA region with links todetailed reports containing information on receiving plandocuments on the Members Only side of the Association’swebsite.

Members were emailed their user names and passwordsfor logging into the NABA website. Contact the NABA office

for assistance or to retrieve your information. If your membership lapses, your log in information isdeactivated.

The full 3 in 1membership will takeeffect on your final

payment. There are norefunds on this

program, any paymentsmade until the third

payment will beconsidered a donation

to the HBA in support ofthe industry. The first

payment will beprocessed upon

receiving the completedform. The following twopayments are due on

the 1st of the followingmonth.

We have the ability todo this as an electronic

withdrawl from yourbank account. Contactthe NABA for details.

NEW Member PublicationsIn October, NABA debuted two new member publications, The HomeBuilder Public Policy Post and The Index. Each is designed to focusmember’s attention on two specific topics, Advocacy and HousingEconomics. The Post will be delivered bi-weekly via a e-news formatwhile The Index is a monthly newsletter. If you are interested incontributing to either publication, please contact the NABA office.

NEW NABA Partnership - Home Builder PurchasingProgram

These days every business is looking for ways to trim budgets and savemoney. To help with this, NABA has partnered with the National PurchasingPartners - Home Builders Purchasing Program. This partnership will alloweven our smallest NABA member companies to take advantage of specialdiscounts 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 theNABA office for your registration information.There is no cost to join for NABA members.See flyer in newsletter for additional details.

WINNER of $100 Menards Gift CardSteve Longtine, Longtine & Daughters

Steve’s name was drawn from a pool of NABA members who returnedtheir raffle ticket stubs and money before October 31st. All NABAmembers were sent 1 book of 6 tickets and asked to sell or purchasethe tickets in an effort to raise funds for the NABA scholarship fund. Ifyou haven’t returned yours yet there is still time to do so - please sendthe ticket stubs and money collected to Jennifer at the NABA office ordrop it off at any upcoming NABA event.

Thank you!

Silent AuctionsRaffles

Association Awards

BEYOND THE BASICSBUILDING SCIENCE SEMINAR

NORTHLAND AREA BUILDERS ASSOCIATION

Presented by: Kevin Hogan - Outreach Manager for Focus on Energy Home Performance with ENERGYSTAR® program and Focus on Energy’s New Homes Program

November 3, 2011 • Spooner Ag Research Center (W6646 Hwy 70, Spooner)

4 ceu credits Dwelling Contractor Qualifier

7:30 am Registration & Continental Breakfast (included)8:00 am - 12:00 pm Seminar

Cost: $25/person ($10/member)This seminar will include the following information:� Diagnostic tools, procedures, and their role in performance testing� How to recognize air sealing opportunities� The role air infiltration plays in determining comfort, energy efficiency, durability & indoor air quality� Various types of air sealing products & insulation types� Advantages & disadvantages of various insulation types� Attributes of dense-packed insulation� The three heat flow transfer mechanisms� The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label on windows� How HVAC and water heating equipment affects whole house performance� Description of principles property� How air movement takes place in homes� Relationship of water vapor to relative humidity and dew point� How to calculate dew points� The consequences of uncontrolled moisture movement� Four critical requirements for mold growth� How to calculate Heating Degree/Cooling Degree Days� How to calculate conductive heating loss� Difference between pressure/air barriers and thermal boundaries� How night sky radiation affects rook decks� How to calculate insulation amounts/densities for open attics and wall & floor cavities� How to calculate R values� What Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) are� The need for mechanical ventilation & how to determine properly sized equipment

Return completed registration form with payment by Nov. 1 to: NABA, 29148 Mail Road, Danbury WI 54830

Company:Attendee(s):Mailing Address:Phone:Email:Qualifier #:

Contractor Education Day: Onsite UDC Code UpdateFeaturing Steve Boss, UDC Code Inspector

1.5 ceu Dwelling Contractor Qualifier

November 29, 2011OK Construction, Inc. Jobsite

7:30 am Check-In & Continental Breakfast8:00 am - 9:30 am Class

Cost: $10/person (Free for NABA members)

Northland Area Builders Association

Return completed registration form with payment by Nov 25 to: NABA, 29148 Mail Road, Danbury WI 54830

Company:

Attendee(s):

Mailing Address:

Phone:

Email:

Qualifier #:

Directions: 2079 Cty A, Spooner. Behr Lake, Scott Township, Burnett Cty.

Approximately .75 miles E of•the junction•of Cty A &•Cty H on•Cty A. It is a shared drivewaywith 2087 Cty Rd A. There is a pond on the North side of A and the driveway is on the southside of the road. It is a long and winding driveway, job site is on the left.

The Northland Area Builders Association (NABA)along with the Wisconsin Builders Association(WBA) and Focus on Energy, Wisconsin utilities’statewide program for energy efficiency andrenewable energy, have entered into a strategicpartnership intended to boost economic growth inWisconsin’s residential construction industry. In thispilot program, Focus on Energy is offering financialincentives to current NABA members to joinFocus’s New Homes’ Program.

Focus on Energy works with nearly 400 builders inWisconsin. These builders have certified over16,000 energy efficient homes since 1999, that’snearly 4 homes per day for the past 12 years. Focuson Energy builder partners currently certify over30% of all homes built in Wisconsin annually.

Becoming a Focus on Energy Builder is easy! Justcomplete the attached Focus on Energy ProgramAlly Application, select a building performanceconsultant, and send the completed paperwork toFocus on Energy. Be sure that the application says“Northland Area Builders Association” on it.

That’s it. That’s all you have to do to get started.After your first home is certified, Focus on Energywill send you a check for $700*. As a Focus onEnergy Builder you are also eligible to receive upto $3,000 in cooperative advertising reimbursement

funds annually and you can receive up to $1,500for each certified home.

Take advantage of the opportunity to join Focus onEnergy and differentiate yourself from yourcompetition. All builders tell potential homeownersthey build good quality, energy-efficient homes, butonly Focus on Energy Builder partners can proveit. Each Focus on Energy certified home isinspected by an accredited, third party, unbiasedbuilding science expert, confirming that each homehas met all New Homes Program standards andtesting requirements.

*Note: This is a one-time promotional payment andthis offer is only available to current NABA buildermembers whom are not currently active Focus onEnergy Builder partners.

Are YOU missing out on $700 cash?

If you know someone who is interested in becoming aNABA member and is a Focus on Energy participant, theymay qualify for a $200 rebate on their NABA membershipdues from Focus on Energy/WECC. This one time rebateis only available to Focus builder participants and newmember applicants. Applicants must be or become aFocus participant before applying for membership in orderto qualify for the rebate.

Want to see your ad in the NABA newsletter or on the NABA website? Contact Jennifer at NABA fordetails. Mention that you saw the ad rates in the NABA newsletter and your ad will run for an extramonth - 4 months for the price of 3!

- minimum of 3 month contract with ad to be placed in the NABA monthly newsletter & to bepaid 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 websitefeaturing a clickable hyperlink to individual advertiser’s website homepage. Member to provide completedad in jpeg format.

Size: 356 pixels x 271 pixels $50/month

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NEWS & UPDATESWisconsin Department of Safety & Professional Services

formerly WI Department of Commerce

Code labels changing: Administrative codes previously underthe authority of the Department of Commerce are beingrelabeled to reflect the authority of the Department of Safetyand Professional Services. "Comm" codes will be "SPS" codesas of January 1, 2011. Also, the number "3" wll be added infront of all the current code numbers. For example, Comm 81will be SPS 381. Comm 5 will be SPS 35.

Change in which fire protection systems need plan review inWisconsinA January 1, 2012, code change increases the fire protectionsystems which need plan review in Wisconsin. Previous to thatdate, fire protection systems which require plan review were identi-fied as being in specific building types or occupancies which werenamed in Table 61.30-3 of the Wisconsin Commercial BuildingCode. As of January 1, Wisconsin has changed to review of mostfire suppression and fire alarm system projects. Table 61.30-3 hasbeen repealed. There are exemptions in the 2012 code for certainbuildings that don’t require building plan review and there areexceptions involving lower numbers of fire sprinkler heads or alarmdevices. The trigger date for fire protection system plan review isbased on the overall building plan submittal. For example, if aGroup B occupancy building is submitted for review prior to Decem-ber 31, 2011, then the fire suppression and fire alarm componentsare not required to be submitted. If the same building is submittedon January 1, 2012, the fire suppression and fire alarm componentswould be required to be submitted for plan review. If a fire protec-tion system is the only thing being added or altered, then the date(before or on/after January 1) in relation to the governing codelanguage in Comm 61.30 will signal whether or not the systemneeds review. In other words, review is necessary for fire protec-tion systems that are required in commercial, industrial, and otherpublic buildings per what is the current Wisconsin building code asof the date of potential submittal. See Comm 61.30. Seehttp://legis.wisconsin.gov/rsb/code/comm/comm061.pdf. Excep-tions in the 2012 code. (a) Pre-engineered kitchen hood firesuppression systems shall be submitted with the HVAC componentas part of the kitchen hood review. (b) Projects where only single-and multiple-station smoke alarms are required. (c) Hospitals andnursing homes, which are reviewed by the state Department ofHealth Services. (d) Per Comm 61.30(4)(b), the submission andapproval of fire protection system plans is not required for a projectinvolving the alteration or addition of the following components: 1.Twenty or fewer sprinkler heads to an existing automatic fire sprin-kler system. 2. Twenty or fewer alarm devices to an existing firealarm system. (e) Per Comm 61.30(4)(a), this requirement does

not apply to minor alterations where the building official agrees thenature of the work is such that review and approval of constructiondocuments is not necessary to achieve compliance with this code.For an overview of fire protection plan review, see the S&BWebSite, http://dsps.wi.gov/sb/SB-DivPlanReview.html#Fire. Formore information, contact a Safety and Buildings Division fireprotection system plan reviewer, http://dsps.wi.gov/sb/docs/SB-FireProSystsPlanRevs.pdf.

2011-2012 PLUMBING & POWTS Continuing EducationDepartment of Safety & Professional Services

Online Continuing Education Courses:If you are unable to attend the classroom courses, another way of obtaining credits is the onlineclasses. You can watch previously recorded classes on your computer, answer the associatedquestions, and mail the answers along with the fee to S & B to receive credit. Visitwww.dsps.wi.gov/SB/SB-DivContinuingEdVideo.html for details.

Sizing the Building Water Supply System (3 ceu for MP, MPRA, MPRS, JP, JPRA, JPRS, CommPlbg Insp, UDC Plbg Insp, and Utility Contractor)

In Depth in Situ Soils (3 ceu for MP, MPRS, JP, JPRS, POWTS Mainainer, CST, POWTS Insp,Comm Pblg Insp_

S & B Drain and Vent 2009 (3 ceu for MP, JP, UDC Plbg Insp, and Comm Plbg Insp)

Correspondance CoursesTo request Copies of the correspondence courses, mail a copy of the request form with payment to S& B and the courses will be sent to you. After studying the course, return the accompanyingquestions with the fee to receive credit. Visit www.dsps.wi.gov/sb/docs/SB-FORMCORRESPONDENCECOURSEORDER.pdf

Water Sizing (3 ceu for MP, MPRA, MPRS, JP, JPRA, JPRS, Comm Plbg Insp, UDC Plbg Insp,and Utility Contractor� Comm 82.32 Traps & Direct Fixture Connections (1.5 ceu for MP, JP, UDC Plbg Insp, & Comm

Plbg Insp)� Comm 82.33 Indirect and Local Wast Piping (1.5 ceu for MP, JP, UDC Plbg Insp, & Comm Plbg

Insp)� Comm 82.34 Interceptors & Catch Basins (3 ceu for P, JP, UDC Plbg Insp, & Comm Plbg Insp)

In Person CoursesNovember 2011 - HaywardFlat Creek Inn and Suites10290 Highway 27 SouthRegistration (next page) and payment must be received at least two weeks prior to the class (keep acopy for your records). Please send registration form to Safety & Buildings at address on registrationform (top left).

Nov 9 8:30 -11:30 am At-Grade and Pres Dist Design 12:30 - 3:30 pm IDS Justification for Perf Design

Nov 10 8:30 - 11:30 am Plumbing Information Q & A 12:30 - 3:30 pm Products and Water Treatment

A rule change effective December 1, 2010 will authorize the Wisconsin Department ofCommerce (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 havenot registered or do not have required credentials.

In 2009, DOC started to require various trades involved in building or modifying structuresto register as a building contractor. However, those that hold certain credentials, such ascontractors who have a dwelling contractor certification, are exempt from this registrationrequirement. This new rule will allow DOC to impose forfeitures on those who do not havetheir registration, or certain other credentials, such as a dwelling contractor certification. Inaddition, forfeitures may be imposed on an entity or individual who contracts with anotherentity 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 apenalty if the general contractor contracts with a subcontractor who does not have itscertification or registration.

WBA objected to this rule, arguing among other things that the forfeiture amounts wereexcessive. In final version of the rule sent to the legislature, the forfeiture amounts weresignificantly reduced. Under the revised rule, the forfeitures for failing to comply with thelicensing/ certification/ registration requirements, or for contracting with an entity that doesnot meet these requirements, are as follows: first offense, $250; second offense, $500; andthird offense, $1000.

In addition to authorizing the imposition of forfeitures, as a result of a statutory change, thisrule also expands the trades subject to registration to include those that construct, install oralter mechanical equipment and devices such as boilers, gas systems, piping and mechanicalsystems serving a building or structure. The requirement was also expanded to include thoseinvolved in the construction, installation or alteration of permanent devices or structuresregulated under the amusement or sanitation code.

REMINDER: DOC Fines for Using Unlicensed or Unregistered Subs

Visit www.nahb.org/ma to learn moreabout money saving discounts

available only to members

NEWS and UPDATESfrom National Association of Home Builders

NAHB Makes Progress on Safety, Compliance Issues RaisedWith OSHANAHB is making steady, albeit slow, progress in its discussions withthe Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) onregulatory issues — especially on the issue of fall protection.However, builders still struggle to figure out how to comply with theserequirements. NAHB First Vice President Barry Rutenberg hasmade OSHA regulations an advocacy priority — and because ofNAHB’s efforts, OSHA officials delayed enforcement of its fallprotection policy during the three month phase-in period from June16 to Sept. 15 and agreed to additional enforcement concessionsthrough March 15, 2012. In addition, OSHA officials visited an NAHBmember job site to see first-hand why conventional fall protectionpractices don’t work for some residential construction activities andhow alternative methods and safe work practices can ensureworkers’ safety. While many builders have not been affectedbecause their states have their own OSHA-approved safetyprograms that differ from the federal standards, or the state neveradopted the Interim Guidelines, others are subject to regulationsthat largely mirror the confusing federal requirements. Now, theagency plans to develop a series of fact sheets to address theseproblem situations. In a meeting with NAHB leaders, senior OSHAstaff said the agency fully intends to provide enforcementconcessions to home builders who can demonstrate they are makinga good faith effort to comply. In two separate meetings with NAHBmembers last week, OSHA leaders said home builders should workwith their OSHA Area Offices to discuss challenges and developshared solutions. NAHB urges home builders to look at the list todetermine who their compliance officers are and engage them indiscussion. Some members have also found that talking to theirmembers of Congress about these onerous regulations helps —and NAHB staff members can assist in this outreach.Future StepsWhile making these local contacts can be an effective short-termsolution, it will not address the consistency problem or thefundamental challenges of the regulations themselves, which is whyNAHB leaders continue to work with OSHA on exploring longer-termsolutions. NAHB has asked OSHA to revise the fall protectionstandard to make it more effective and less burdensome — and ishoping to meet again soon with agency leaders to look at next steps.As NAHB continues these discussions, association leaders must beable to explain to regulators what specific portions of the rule createproblems and offer some solutions that can make it work, Rutenbergsaid. “We cannot successfully advocate for revisions to the rule withOSHA or Congress if we don’t know what revisions need to bemade,” he said. “It is in our best interest to define very specificallywhat those changes should be, not OSHA.” NAHB is studying OSHASubpart M to choose those compliance activities that, if removed orrevised, would make a significant difference in terms of burdensand/or compliance. “Once we know specifically what we want, weare also more likely to receive Congressional support,” Rutenbergsaid. In the meantime, NAHB continues to proceed cautiously and

deliberately, relying on a few select Members of Congress as anavenue to reach the ear of OSHA officials. “A ‘storm the castle’approach would likely backfire and impede progress,” Rutenbergsaid. Town hall meetings and other activities hosted by HBAs in St.Louis, Omaha, Lancaster, Pa., and others have clearlydemonstrated the far reach of the issues and the fervor of ourmembers in seeking workable solutions. These activities have notgone unnoticed by senior OSHA officials — and if scheduledjudiciously, help encourage these national discussions to continue.NAHB Senior Officers will soon appoint a member task group to helpidentify the most problematic portions of the rule and developsuggested solutions to take to OSHA and possibly Capitol Hill. Oncethe group’s work gets underway this fall and we have the follow-upmeeting with OSHA, NAHB will be in a better position to determinehow best to proceed with these grassroots efforts.

NAHB members who attend the 2012 International Builders'Show will have an outstanding opportunity to hear FederalReserve Chairman Ben Bernanke deliver remarks during aspecial session of our Board of Directors meeting on Feb. 10.Testifying before the Joint Economic Committee in Congress thisweek, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke specificallyacknowledged housing's role in economic recovery and job growthand the challenges facing builders in today's market. "The housingsector has been a significant driver of recovery from most recessionsin the United States since World War II," he said. "This time,however, a number of factors -- including the overhang of distressedand foreclosed properties, tight credit conditions for builders andpotential home buyers, and the large number of 'underwater'mortgages -- have left the rate of new home construction at onlyabout one-third of its average level in recent decades.” Clearly,Chairman Bernanke understands the contributions that builders canmake to the economy when given the chance, and throughout histenure he has been willing to meet with our leadership on a regularbasis to receive updates from us on the state of the housing marketand discuss our concerns. Building on this solid relationship, we arepleased to announce that the chairman recently accepted aninvitation to speak at our Board of Directors meeting to be heldduring the International Builders' Show in Orlando this comingFebruary. Registered IBS attendees will be welcomed as part of theaudience on a first-come, first served basis when the chairmanspeaks on Feb.10. This is an outstanding opportunity to hear froma man who is at the center of our nation's efforts to mount aneconomic recovery -- and a true honor for NAHB members, as suchan appearance is relatively rare for the chairman. Further details onthe time and location of Mr. Bernanke's address will be availablecloser to the event, and we will be sure to pass on that informationas soon as possible. In the meantime, if you haven't signed up toattend the IBS this February, now's the time to do so atwww.BuildersShow.com!

In testimony before the Senate Finance Committeeon Oct. 6, NAHB economist Robert Dietz warnedlawmakers about the devastating impacts thateliminating or curtailing the mortgage interestdeduction (MID) would have on middle-classfamilies."We believe that any policy change that makes it harderto buy a home, or delays the purchase of the home untilan older age, will have a significant long-term impact onhousehold wealth accumulation and the make-up of themiddle class as a whole," said Rob. He also set therecord straight about misleading claims that thededuction benefits only wealthy taxpayers and that onlya small number of home owners utilize the deductionbecause they must itemize their deductions in order toclaim it. In fact, he told Congress,70% of the tax benefitsof the MID go to middle-class home owners who earnless than $200,000 annually. Moreover, a deduction thatreduces the net cost of monthly house payments isparticularly important to younger home buyers, whotypically have large home loans and less equity whileat the same time they are paying mostly interest in theearly years of the mortgage. Our tax expert alsostressed the importance of several other housing taxincentives, including the Low Income Housing TaxCredit, which is the most successful affordable rentalhousing production program in the nation's history andproduces approximately 90,000 full-time jobs per year.Moreover, he explained that eliminating the MID forsecond homes could threaten the economic viability ofsecond home and vacation markets nationwide. Henoted that nearly every state has areas with significantnumbers of second homes, with 49 states having acounty where at least 10% of the housing stock consistsof second homes.

NAHB members who weren’t able to attend theBuilder Focus: Proven Strategies for Success panelat the Fall Board of Directors meeting in Milwaukeelast month can now view video excerpts from thesession online atwww.nahb.org/fallboardbuilderpanel.After our initial Strategies for Success builder panel atthe Spring Board meeting was so well received, NAHBChairman Bob Nielsen directed that we hold an all-new,second advice session at the Fall Board meeting, inwhich builders who are successfully selling homes andsecuring AD&C financing could share their secrets forcompeting in the down market. For all those who weren'table to attend this second offering, we promised wewould make the session available online as quickly aspossible, and we've now done just that. Panelists whoparticipated in our latest session included MikeDishberger, CEO and co-owner of Sandcastle Homesin Houston, Tex.; Keith Grant, co-owner of Keith andDavid Grant Homes in Collierville, Tenn.; David Main,owner of Creative Home Partners in Enumclaw, Wash.and Sandra Steele, president and co-owner of Enfinger

Steele Development in Huntsville, Ala. Learn what thesebuilders and developers are doing to generate businessand successfully obtain construction financing in theirmarkets by viewing this free video atwww.nahb.org/fallboardbuilderpanel. For moreinformation, contact Gwyn Donohue at 800-368-5242,x8447.

Wisconsin BuildersAssociation

Monday Morning NewsOctober 20, 2011

Wetlands reforms proposed inSpecial Session

In the call for the special session of the legislature weredetails concerning wetland and habitat restoration bySenator Neil Kedzie and Representative Jeff Mursau.Exact details of the bill draft are still being worked onand the key to this plan will be getting the draftingcorrect.  DNR officials continue to work with SenatorKedzie and Representative Mursau on the final detailsof the plan.The details of the plan are the same concepts that WBAhas supported for years including:•Makes it easier to do business in Wisconsin and main-tains wetland protections through clear simple regulato-ry process.•Improved and simplified wetland permitting processwith clear application requirements and predictable re-view.•Achieve an overall increase in wetland acreagethrough restoration fees, banking and mitigation.•Improve the overall quality of wetlands in Wisconsin.•Increase access to lands for outdoor recreational ac-tivities by requiring they be open to hunting, fishing, andtrapping.•Provide more consistency with the Army Corp of Engi-neers by mirroring federalguidelines and regulations.Meeting on Commercial Code UniformityWBA staff recently sat down with Senator Terry Moult-on (author of bill to make Wisconsin’s commercial codeuniform), Senator Glen Grothman, representativesfrom fire service, and the Associated Builders andContractors (ABC) to continue the discussion of how acompromise can be crafted on this important issue.WBA has supported making Wisconsin’s commercialcode uniform for a number of sessions and we see thissession as the best time in decades to get this accom-plished.A number of different concepts were discussed at therecent meeting, including grandfathering certain sec-tions of the code in local municipalities to the creationof a council to review local variations from the statewidecode.WBA and ABC are hopeful that a compromise on thisimportant issue can take place.  If not, we hope to moveon to an alternate version of this bill very soon.

WBA leaders meet with Walker COSRecently WBA President Don Esposito, WBA GA chairChad Wuebben, WBA EVP Jerry Deschane and I wereable to meet with Governor Walker’s new Chief of StaffEric Schutt.Schutt had served as the deputy chief of staff prior tomoving into the chief of staff role after Keith Gilkemoved out of state service to manage the possiblerecall election.  Before taking the position with Walker,Schutt had served in various roles in state governmentand was the recipient of the WBA Friend of Housingaward while he was the Chief of Staff for Representa-tive Kitty Rhoades.We were able to touch base on a number of issues wehope to get passed before the end of the legislativesession and spent a great deal of time talking aboutwhat we would like to accomplish in a comprehensivewetland reform package during the current specialsession on job creation.

A $44 million issue that needs to be fixed?Recently final estimates were released on the dollarsspent on the nine recall elections this summer.  Thefinal from candidates and independent groups came inat $44 million.Local units for government are estimated to have spentin the neighborhood of $2.1 million to staff and admin-ister recall elections in July and August.

State Representative Robin Vos (R-Burlington) hasintroduced a constitutional amendment to “recall therecalls.” Vos recently said of the recalls “in generalrecalls should be used very rarely and they should bewhen someone commits a malfeasance in office.”Any constitutional amendment would require passagein two consecutive sessions of the legislature andapproved in a statewide referendum.

Fitzgerald officially in for U.S. SenateRecently Assembly Speaker Jeff Fitzgerald (R-Hori-con) officially announced he was making a run for theGOP nomination for U.S. Senate.  Fitzgerald joins MarkNeumann who has also made the official announce-ment of candidacy as well.Fitzgerald is trying to position himself as a next gener-ation conservative who has delivered noticeable resultswith both the budget repair bill and the recently passedstate budget.“Common sense reforms combined with unwaveringleadership create results that are as desperately need-ed as they are rare,” said Fitzgerald. “In Wisconsin I ledthe Assembly to a balanced budget in face of fierceopposition from the status quo. I would be honored tolead a new reform movement in Washington.”

According to Fitzgerald, he is running to advance analternative to President Obama’s agenda, whichFitzgerald says spends too much, reforms too little, andhas failed to address a growing unemployment crisis.Fitzgerald says he stands out as a candidate becauseof his recent policy and political successes as Assem-bly republican leader.Tommy Thompson forms fundraising committee forU.S. Senate bidFormer Governor Tommy G. Thompson recently filedincorporation papers to begin organizing a campaignand raising contributions for a US Senate race.

Darrin Schmitz, a consultant for Thompson, said aformal announcement will be held in the future but thefiling will allow the campaign to immediately start build-ing the infrastructure to capture the Senate seat cur-rently held by Senator Herb Kohl.

“Governor Thompson filed incorporation papers for acampaign today, and he’ll begin raising funds andbuilding a strong statewide organization for a US Sen-ate race. A formal announcement will take place in thefuture,” Schmitz said. “We’re taking the necessarysteps to properly launch a successful Senate bid.”Neumann exceeded U.S. Senate Fundraising goalThose running for federal office (Congress or U.S.Senate) were required to file a campaign finance reportrecently with the Federal Election Commission (FEC),and U.S. Senate candidate Mark Neumann announcedhe had exceeded his fundraising goal for this quarter.Neumann had set a goal to raise $250,000 for theperiod and actually was able to raise $300,000 duringthe period with no personal contributions from Mr. andMrs. Neumann as part of that total.  The FEC reportturned in by Neumann contained over 1400 donors tohis campaign for U.S. Senate.“This phenomenal number shows that our conservativemessage is resonating,” Neumann stated. “Americafaces a debt crisis of historic proportions. We will notget the private sector creating jobs until we cut spend-ing and balance the budget. This is what I have beensaying across Wisconsin and people are clearly re-sponding.”

Questions or comments? Please contact Brad Boycks,Director of Government and Political Affairs for theWisconsin Builders Association ®. You can reach Brad atbboycks@wisbuild.org or 888-285-9066, x16. You canalso visit the WBA web site: www.wisbuild.org

UPCOMING EVENTSDate Event Location Time

Nov 3

NABA ContractorEducation Day - Beyond

Building Science Basics (4ceu)

Spooner Ag ResearchCenter 7:30 am

Nov 8 NABA Board InstallationDinner/Networking Night

Steakhouse Lodge &Restaurant, Hayward 5:00 pm

Nov 16 NABA Board Meeting Hayward 5:00 pm

Nov 29

NABA ContractorEducation Day - OnsiteUDC Code Update (1.5

ceu)

OK Construction projectsite (near Cty A & H

intersection)7:30 am

Dec 8 & 9

NW Regional ProfessionalBuilder Workshop - Initial

Dwelling ContractorCertification & Dwelling

Contractor Qualifier ContEducation (12 ceu)

CVHBA, Eau Claire 7:00 am

Dec 9 NABA Holiday MysteryDinner & Awards Night

Flat Creek Eatery,Hayward 5:00 pm

Jan 12

NABA ContractorEducation Day - What youNeed to Know about OSHA

(3.5 ceu)

Weiss Community Library,Hayward 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/MarchNABA 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, SpoonerMiddle 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

2011 - 2012