Industry Insider - November /December 2010

Transcription

INDUSTRY
Canadian Home Builders’ Association – Edmonton Region
December 2010 1–3
insider
eason’sings
S Greet
9 Staying Ahead of the
Technology Curve
12 The Fair Trade Act
19 Port Alberta –
of our Region
The Future 1-006-3
2 | industry INSIDER December 2010
contents
7National Conference Update
35
8 Breakfast, Luncheon and Dinner Meetings
20 Volunteer Recognition Awards
22 Home and Interior Design Show Review
24 Keeping Albertans Safe at Work
32Elections – Meet your Representatives
10
December 3, 2010
Volume 1 – Issue 3
The Industry Insider is published every 6 weeks
by the Canadian Home Builders’ Association
– Edmonton Region.
34 New Members
35Spirit of UDI Awards
36 HFH Frame Game
37 Calendar of Events
38 Ply Gem Announces New Product
CHBA – ER Executive Officer Tim Howard
[email protected]
780.702.0323
Editor/Coordinator Meghan Hilker
[email protected]
780.702.5306
Sales/Production Joy Van Marck
[email protected]
780.395.2982 Cell 780.910.2062
Graphic Designer Katheryn Charchuk
The Association has taken care to ensure copy
and advertising accuracy. However, no warranty
is implied or given.
Phone: 780.425.1020
Fax: 780.425.1031
Return Undeliverable Canadian Address to:
Editor, Industry Insider
150 Summerside Gate, SW
Edmonton, Alberta T6X 0P5
e-mail: [email protected]
20
22
36
38
message
FROM THE BOARD
Jenni Head,
Secretary/Treasurer
CHBA-ER Board of Directors
I have good news
and I have bad news;
which do you want
to hear first?
The CHBA-ER ran a $270,672 deficit for
fiscal year 2010 ending August 31st. So,
how did it happen and what does it mean?
I should start by pointing out that,
as part of the package of By-law
amendments approved at the March
31st AGM this year, there was a
provision for a change in year-end from
October 31st to August 31st. This was
done to more closely align our program
year with our fiscal year and enable us
to take advantage of the traditionally
quieter summer months to close out
our financial operations cleanly. That
change effectively shortened the past
year by two months, thus excluding the
revenue derived from the annual Home
and Interior Design Show in October
2010 from the Income Statement. This
reduced our income by some $200,000.
Additionally, effective February 28th,
the Association turned over all Built
Green™ fees to the management of
CHBA-Alberta, an arrangement that
had not been budgeted for although
approved in the preceding year. This set
us back a further $75,000 for a total of
$275,000 which would normally have
been included in our revenue, leaving us
with what would have been, in a normal
year, a small surplus of about $5,000.
So, where is the good news in all of this?
Much of the past year has been spent
rebuilding: rebuilding committees,
rebuilding leadership and rebuilding
bridges burnt over the past several
years. We have now turned the corner
and the programming planned during
the past year is finally underway.
Membership is climbing, advertising
and sponsorship revenue is on the rise,
and we already have significant exhibitor
and sponsorship commitments for next
year’s RCIC. We have budgeted a 2011
surplus of $83,000, rising to $134,000
in 2012, and $250,000 in 2013. These
forecast surpluses will enable us to
continue growing both our Emergency
Operating Fund and our Building
Maintenance Fund, the combination of
which currently sits at $231,031.
What, then, are the highlights of the
past year? On the Balance Sheet, we
closed out the year as of August 31st
with $481,682 in Current Assets, of
which $122,000 was cash. Our Fixed
Assets comprised $1,333,700 of
which our land and building were the
major components at $1,264,900; the
balance was equitably spread between
furnishings, computer hardware and
software, and other office equipment.
Including our Restricted Funds of
$231,031, the CHBA-ER has just over
$2M in Assets. Against this we have
$411,348 in Current and Deferred
Liabilities – leaving us with $1,635,065
in Equity as compared to 2009 when
our equity stood at $1,905,738, a drop
of $288,000.
On the Income side of the equation, the
highlights have already been addressed.
Not surprisingly, our principal revenue
generators for this fiscal year are the
Renovation Show, registration fees
for our many programs, sponsorship,
and membership dues, for a total of
$1,497,819. On the Expense side of the
equation, we incurred some $1,770,806
in costs. The major culprits were salaries
and benefits, show profit sharing,
meals, professional fees, space rental,
advertising, and audio visual; leaving a
deficit of $270,672 against a budgeted
deficit of $246,424. You will be provided
all of the details in the upcoming Annual Report, due for release early in December.
In summary, while the past year
certainly gives pause, the situation was
planned for as part of the rebuilding
process which will enable us to begin
achieving positive year-over-year
surpluses henceforth. I have found my
position challenging and rewarding; I
would like to thank my fellow Board
members for their understanding and
support during this difficult year and the
staff for their dedication to the financial
health of our Association. ■
message
FROM THE EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Tim Howard
Executive Officer
Turnover – Good or Bad?
Every company wrestles with the age-old
problem of turnover; staff come; staff go.
Right? Well, maybe not. Most managers regard
turnover as part of the cost of doing business.
Someone poaches mine, I poach someone
else’s – it all balances out. For some companies
turnover is viewed as a necessary and beneficial
part of keeping their company ‘fresh’. For the
most part, however, it is problematic. Why do we
lose staff? What does it cost to lose staff? What
can we do about it?
Tim McConnell, an HR Strategist with McConnell
HR Consulting in Ottawa, provides some valuable
insight into why we lose people. He asks:
“How many of your top performers are simply
biding their time -- waiting until the market
improves before bolting to the next job? … The
first people out the door will be the folks with
the most options – the best employees in your
association.”
Data gathered from exit interviews suggests
people leave their employer for the following
reasons:
•Job dissatisfaction;
•Lack of challenge;
•Lack of confidence in the organization;
•Dissatisfaction with co-workers;
•Compensation: Many studies have shown that compensation is usually way down on the list of reasons why good people leave.
The costs of staff turnover can vary dramatically.
The Society for Human Resource Management
(HSRM) pegs the number at an average of
$7,123. The Employment Policy Foundation in
the United States suggests that it costs an
average of $15,000 and, at the other extreme,
for senior executives, the costs can be as high as
twice their salary or more. What goes into the
calculation?
The Canadian Society of Association Executives
(CSAE) lists the following:
•The cost of a temp or an existing employee performing the vacant job as well as their own;
•The training cost invested in the employee leaving;
•The impact on productivity;
•Severance and benefits continuation for an eligible employee;
•The cost of lost knowledge, skills and contacts taken by the departing staff.
Add to these recruitment costs:
•Advertisements, agency costs, internet posts. •Staff time required;
Plus training costs:
•Orientation: Consider the new person’s salary and the person conducting the orientation, plus orientation materials;
•Person(s) conducting training;
•Various training materials and equipment needed;
•Management’s time: 7 hours per week for at least 8 weeks;
Not to mention lost productivity costs...
While new employees are learning new jobs,
policies and practices, etc., they are not being
fully productive:
•Upon completion of training, the employee is contributing at 25% productivity for the first 2 - 4 weeks. Cost = 75% of the new employee’s salary;
•During weeks 5 - 12, the employee is contributing at 50% productivity. Cost = 50% of salary;
•During weeks 13 - 20, the employee is contributing at 75% productivity. Cost = 25% of salary;
•Co-workers and management lose productivity due to their time spent on bringing the new employee “up to speed”;
•Mistakes the new employee makes during this period;
•Lost department productivity caused by a departing member of management who is no longer available to guide and direct the remaining staff;
•Completion or delivery of a critical project where the departing employee is a key participant;
•Reduced productivity of a manager or director who loses a key staff member, administrative tasks that the manager must now handle.
the cost to put the person on the payroll,
establish computer and security passwords and
identification cards, business cards, internal and
external publicity announcements, telephone
hook-ups, establishing e-mail accounts and credit
card accounts or leasing other equipment.
So, we know why our people are leaving and
we have calculated what it costs to lose them.
What can we do about it; how can we improve
retention? Sandi L. Humphreys, CAE, Editor of
Association Magazine suggests:
•Find out why your staff are leaving: Conduct exit surveys;
•Look into how your turnover rates compare with other companies in the industry; and
•Respond to what you’ve learned. Find out what factors are contributing to your company’s employee turnover and take decisive action to turn those problems around:
•Compensation: If at the end of the day you determine that compensation is indeed the reason for turnover, it may be time for a rethink of your pay package.
As Tim McConnell says: “More money is not the
answer.” He notes how a recent survey found
that the top retention techniques are:
1. Challenging work assignments;
2.A favourable work environment;
3.Flextime;
4.Additional vacation time;
5.Support for career / family values;
6.High-quality supervision and leadership;
7. Visionary leadership; and
8.Cross-functional assignments, tuition and training reimbursement
Non-monetary HR best practices include:
•Non-monetary recognition of performance (try saying ‘thank you’)
•Empowerment (increased responsibility for work and decision making)
•Fairness (equitable rules and procedures)
•Employee development (job rotation, mentoring, training)
•Work-life policies (flextime, flexible leave practices)
•Information sharing (communicate, communicate, communicate)
•Performance Measurement;
•Lifestyle Accommodation. ■
And, of course, new hire costs:
•Bringing the new person on board including
industry INSIDER December 2010 | 5
1-003-3
fall 2010 national
conference
The CHBA Fall 2010 National Conference was held October
22-25th at the Marriott Hotel in Ottawa. The conference
involved a number of concurrent sessions including:
Urban Council;
National Education and Training Committee;
Technical Research Committee;
National Marketing Committee;
Executive Officer Council;
Manufacturers’ Council;
Economic Research Committee;
Canadian Renovators Council;
Provincial Presidents’ Forum; and
Board of Directors Meeting
Many of Canada’s local and provincial CHBA’s were
represented from St. John’s to Vancouver. Alberta was well
represented, both by Calgary and Edmonton, and by CHBAAlberta. All together there were 13 Alberta delegates.
The Urban Council meeting addressed a wide range of topics,
including reports of the CHBA Task Forces on the following
issues:
• Fire Suppression;
• Development Charges; and
• Provincial Wetland Regulations
Peter Norman of Altus Clayton presented a well-researched
discussion on the extended effects of inclusionary zoning,
both in their extreme manifestations in the United States
and, to a lesser, but no less challenging extent in Canada. The
study concludes by pointing out the unintended and indirect
consequences of inclusionary zoning, such as:
market distortions, the reduction not improvement of housing
affordability and the reduction not increase in the amount of
high-density housing.
Without government subsidies in one form or another,
functional inclusionary zoning is difficult if not impossible;
rather than being inclusionary, this policy is often exclusionary
by eliminating marginal home owners through increased
market housing costs.
Other topics included:
• Government Imposed Costs: a review of some of the most ingenious government-imposed fee grabs from across the country;
• ‘NIMBY’ as a Human Rights Issue: a provoking presentation by Barbara Hall, Chief Commissioner of the Ontario Human Rights Commission and former Mayor of Toronto, discussing racial, religious, gender, sexual, and age discrimination issues as they relate to affordable housing and development in Canada;
• ‘Smart Government’ for Provincial Regulatory Initiatives: a summary of regulatory reform across Canada;
• CMHC Municipal Infrastructure Program: a municipal infrastructure funding program that enables communities to borrow at low-interest and use as matching funds for federal infrastructure support; and
• Municipal Infrastructure Financing: another municipal funding alternative to increasing GIC’s that reduce affordability and download whole-community infrastructure upgrading onto new home buyers.
For detailed reports by each of the Committees and Councils,
visit www.chba.ca. ■
builder breakfast
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
7:30AM
Edmonton Petroleum Club (11110 – 108 Street)
City of Edmonton Building Inspectors
Speakers: Maurice Otto, Roger Clemens and Mark
Brodgesell
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
7:30AM
Edmonton Petroleum Club (11110 – 108 Street)
Topic and speaker to be announced.
business lunch
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
11:30AM – 1:00PM
Royal Glenora Club (11160 River Valley Road)
Growing Forward – The Capital Region
Growth Plan
Presented by Kathleen LeClair, Chief Officer, Capital Region
Board
In March 2010, the Capital Region
Growth Plan: Growing Forward. A
key element is the Capital Region’s
Housing Plan, which is aimed at
ensuring there is sufficient supply,
choice and diversity in housing in the
Capital Region. The Plan provides
a housing continuum to clarify the
definition of non-market and market
affordable housing and identifies the
future need for non-market and market
affordable housing and a six sub-region model to effectively meet
future regional needs. Future work for the Capital Region Board
includes the creation of a 10 year housing plan as well as raising
awareness around housing issues in the Capital Region. Kathleen
LeClair, Chief Officer of the Capital Region Board, will present a
fascinating insight into Growing Forward and its implications for
the home building industry in the Edmonton Region.
Kathleen has a B.A. Honours and M.A. in economics from
Queen’s University.
In accordance with the By-laws of the Canadian Home Builders’
Association – Edmonton Region (CHBA-ER) the 2011 Annual
General Meeting (AGM) will be held on January 11, 2011 from
11:30 AM to 12:00PM at the Royal Glenora Club, immediately
prior to the regularly-scheduled Business Luncheon. The 2011
AGM agenda, the 2010 AGM Minutes, the 2011 CHBA-ER
Board of Directors, and the 2010 Annual Report, including the
President’s, Treasurer’s, and Executive Officer’s Reports, and the
Association’s 2010 Audited Financial Statements, will be available
on the CHBA-ER website under ‘About Us/Governance’. Printed
copies of the 2010 Annual Report will be mailed out to members
early December.
12:00PM
Transit Oriented Development
Speaker: Janice Chan, City of Edmonton
dinner meeting
Thursday December 9, 2010
6:00 PM
Shaw Conference Centre
CHBA – ER Christmas Dinner
Sponsored by Gienow Windows and Doors
Your entertainment for the evening is
the extremely funny and multi-talented
Johnny Vallis, Man of Many Voices!
Get ready to have fun!! Johnny doesn’t
just sing, he tells stories, creates
characters and then transforms into them
... You will enjoy the sounds of Louis Armstrong, Dean Martin,
Garth Brooks, John Lennon, Mick Jagger, and many more.
Get into the spirit of giving by bringing an unwrapped toy
for 630 CHED’s Santas Anonymous. Everyone who brings
a toy for Santa’s Anonymous will receive a draw ticket for a
Decoflame decorative fireplace donated by Dyand Mechanical
Systems Inc./Wood and Energy Store. Tickets will also be
available for purchase at $2 each or 3 for $5 with all donations
going to the Edmonton Region Homebuilders’ Charity Fund.
Friday, January 28, 2011
5:30 PM
Westin Edmonton (10135 100th Street)
President’s Gala
Tuesday, January 11, 2010
11:30AM – 12:00PM
Royal Glenora Club (11160 River Valley Road)
Thursday, February 17, 2011
5:30 PM
Delta Edmonton South (4404 Gateway Blvd.)
CHBA-ER Annual General Meeting (AGM)
CHBA-ER Economic Forum
For more information or to register for these or other upcoming CHBA-ER events, check out
chbaedmonton.ca/news-events/calendar-events or contact Programs and Services Manager,
Shelly Portmann, for details.
Staying Ahead of the Technology Curve
by John Stubbington, Integrated Home Systems Inc.
Staying ahead of the technology curve in new home
construction is akin to the running of the bulls; a quick
glance over your shoulder and you will be trampled with the
rampaging herd of new and better products. No where does
this hold truer than in the field of installed electronics. In
Entertainment, electronics end user products evolve
continually and from a development standpoint, product
generations are often obsolete by the time new technologies
even reach assembly.
The key of course lies in the wiring infrastructure. The right
wires in the right place, at the right time. The right time is
when the home is in rough in stage. The right place is where
the home buyers will use them…in every room of the house…
video displays in aesthetically pleasing locations, the source
equipment tucked neatly out of site, controls in ergonomically
accessible places. The right wires are designed for openarchitecture systems, something that is compatible with ever
changing connections, giving the end user the luxury of choice.
When it comes to installed electronics where does that leave
the new home builder? Focusing on quality builds, builders
are looking to more durable products with a superior service
history, not something that is planned to be obsolete by next
week. So why install anything electronic? The answer is simple
–BECAUSE YOUR BUYERS WANT IT. The better question to
ask is: where do I get the best bang for my buck?
The infrastructure that will stand the test of time will include
a lot of Cat5/6 wiring; it is very universal in its application,
transferring audio, video, communication, control signals,
and large data volume. Security systems for intrusion and
life safety with environmental sensors are very standard
these days, and you will never go wrong installing quality
loudspeakers with good wiring. There is only one way to make
music from electricity, and that is with a speaker. Quality
loudspeakers will never be obsolete. Music is a universal
obsession with people, an emotional experience that cannot
be denied… ask anyone walking out of a symphony hall after a concert.
It is possible to give your home buyers lasting value by
installing the infrastructure that allows them flexibility to
choose the sub-systems they want with an eye on the
end game – a totally “integrated” home. The Holy Grail of
electronic living when everything in your home is connected
and intelligent has been touted for decades as something
to prepare for – future-proofing is the buzzword you have no
doubt heard.
Convergence is the new buzzword, and the future is now.
Email and internet on your TV, (surfing You Tube on the big
screen is too much fun) connected appliances for convenience
and entertainment, music everywhere, simplified lighting
scenes, safety and security all working together to make your
home more fun, more energy efficient and best of all - simple
to use!!! This is the lifestyle your buyers want, and it is the
home they dream of living in.
A final note: don’t be lured by the concept of wireless. While
improvements are made every day in the wireless world, the
same improvements are taking place with wired products.
They will always be better, faster, more secure and reliable
than wireless technology.
Stubbington owns Integrated Home Systems Inc. an
installation company and CHBA-ER Member, serving the area’s
best home builders for 20 years. John can be contacted at
[email protected] ■
Montorio’s 7th Built with Bear Hands
Home is now open
Supporting the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation.
Montorio Homes has launched this year’s Built with Bear Hands home. The 2,928 sq. ft., two-storey home, located in Upper Windermere,
is now open for public viewing and available for purchase. Net proceeds from the sale of the home will be donated to the Stollery
Children’s Hospital Foundation.
According to Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation President, Jennifer Wood, the money donated by Montorio Homes will go towards
funding a new emergency ward, education, research, specialized programming and equipment. The original emergency ward was built to
handle 11,000 visits a year – they now treat more than 25,000 children annually.
“It’s our seventh home and 11th year donating to the Stollery. It’s very endearing to know we’re working with such a good organization,”
said Montorio Homes Vice President, Martino Di Luigi.
Montorio has raised approximately $180,000 for the Stollery to date. ■
2011 award of
excellence in housing
Chair, Steve Ruggiero
CHBA-Edmonton Region’s annual Awards of Excellence in Housing
recognizes the best professional builders, developers and sales and
marketing professionals within the Capital Region. Every year over
50 awards are handed out to members of the CHBA-Edmonton
Region.
The deadline for Awards of Excellence in Housing submissions has
now passed. Thank-you to all of our members who entered the
Awards this year – the submissions look great!!
Finalists will be announced in the New Year and winners will be
announced at the awards gala on Saturday March 26, 2011 at the
Shaw Conference Centre.
There is still time to participate in the awards by becoming a
sponsor. Member participation is crucial to the continued success of
this event. Sponsorship provides fantastic recognition and valuable
media exposure! The CHBA-ER will custom design a sponsorship
package to meet your company’s needs.
It is through the generous support of Association members that
we are able to organize and host successful events throughout the
year. If you haven’t seen the 2011 Awards of Excellence in Housing
Sponsorship Package, visit www.excellenceinhousing.ca or call the
CHBA – ER office at 780-702-0324.
Sponsorship benefits start immediately!
Thank-you to our Sponsors (as of November 1st):
Builder of the Year Awards
Coleman Heating & Air Conditioning
(Quality HVAC Products Ltd.)
Silver
Cameron Homes Inc., Beattie Homes (Edmonton) Inc.
Photography
Canada ICI Capital Corporation
Bronze
Bank of Nova Scotia, Canada Lands Company
Bird Trophy
ATB Financial,
BMO Bank of Montreal,
Homes by Avi - Edmonton Inc.,
Kitchen Craft Cabinetry,
REALTORS® Association of Edmonton,
United Communities
Trophy
A & B Concrete Pumping (2007) Ltd.,
Cameron Homes Inc.,
Carma Developers LP,
Genstar Development Company,
I-XL Masonry Supplies,
Pacesetter Homes Ltd.,
REALTORS® Association of Edmonton,
Sabal Homes
Patron
Jetco Mechanical Limited
If you have any questions about 2011 Awards of Excellence in
Housing Sponsorship, please email or call Shelly Portmann,
Programs & Services Manager, at [email protected] or
rcic 2011
The 2011 Residential Construction Industry Conference (RCIC 2011)
will be held at the Edmonton EXPO Centre on Tuesday, April 26th and
Wednesday, April 27th, 2011. Trade Show exhibitor move-in will be on
April 25th with move-out on April 27th, at the end of the day.
The Residential Construction Industry Trade Show will consist of
over 5000 sq. ft. of exhibitor booth space, representing the newest
and most innovative products and services available in today’s
marketplace.
Exhibitors are encouraged to present new products and services and to be prepared to provide technical detailed information, as this conference is aimed toward industry professionals not the
general public.
Delegate traffic on the Trade Show floor will be a significant valueadded for the show’s exhibitors. Lunch will be available for delegates
to enjoy on the Trade Show floor, allowing everyone the opportunity
to visit exhibitor booths and learn about the new and exciting
products our industry has to offer. The first day of the conference
will end with an Ice Breaker Reception, also on the Trade Show floor,
where exhibitors will have an opportunity to speak directly with key
industry members.
Trade Show space is available to CHBA members and non-CHBA
members at a competitive price of $1500.00 per 10 x 10 space.
Exhibitors can purchase addition square footage for $13.50/
sq. ft. To sign up as an Exhibitor please contact Kendall Franklin,
Conventions & Conference Manager, at 780-702-0324 or kfranklin@
chbaedmonton.ca
The 2011 RCIC Trade Show concept has been well received so far,
with the following companies already signed up as participating
exhibitors:
A&B Concrete Pumping (2007) Ltd.
Access Plumping & Heating Ltd.
Alberta Construction Safety Association
ATCO
Baywest Projects Ltd.
Beaver Plastics Ltd.
Can-Cell Industries Inc.
Eastside Hangers Inc.
Durabuilt Windows & Doors Inc.
Igloo Building Supplies Group
Kitchen Craft Cabinetry
Modern Kitchens & Closets
Stantec Geomatics Ltd.
Weiser & Price Pfister
Weiss-Johnson Sheet Metal
There is still plenty of Trade Show space available, but space is
limited, so sign up for your spot today! ■
Leading the industry
every step of the way
17320–108 Avenue, Edmonton
780.489.5591 www.artisticstairs.com
1-014-3
renovation committee
Bruce Coombs, Brownlee LLP
The Fair Trading Act
I would venture a guess that many of you have never heard
of the Fair Trading Act (the “Act”). I also suspect that many
of those who have heard of the Act, either are not aware of
the obligations of their business under the Act, or choose to
ignore such obligations. You should remember that ignorance
of the law is not an excuse if you are caught breaking it.
The Act came into force in the Province of Alberta on
September 1, 1999. The Act represents the consolidation of
seven different pieces of previous legislation previously in
force in the Province of Alberta, including the Unfair Trade
Practices Act, the Direct Sales Cancellation Act and the
Licensing of Trades and Businesses Act.
A portion of the Act has recently raised concern amongst
members of our Association, in particular, members of the
Renovation Committee. At issue are the provisions which
deal with conducting business with a Consumer away from
a vendor’s usual place of business (for example, an office/
showroom).
Some of the relevant definitions contained within the Act are
as follows:
“Consumer” – a person who pays for goods or services that
have been bought or leased.
“Pre-Paid Contracting Business” – the business of soliciting,
negotiating or concluding in person at any place other than the
seller’s place of business, a Pre-Paid Contract.
“Pre-Paid Contract” – a Construction or Maintenance Contract
in which all or part of the contract price is to be paid before
all of the goods or services called for in the Pre-Paid Contract
have been provided.
“Construction or Maintenance Contract” – amongst other
things, includes a contract for the purpose of constructing,
altering, maintaining, repairing, adding to or improving a
building that is used or to be used as a private dwelling or
a structure used in connection with such a dwelling (e.g. a
garage). Excluded from this definition are contracts for the
construction of a home covered by the New Home Warranty
Program and contracts for renovations and home construction
where the contract is covered by National Home Warranty
Programs.
“Pre-Paid Contracting Business” – the solicitation, negotiating
or conclusion in person, at any place other than your place of
business, of a Pre-Paid Contract.
The Act provides that if you are in the Pre-Paid Contracting
business you must be licensed under the Act. In order to
become licensed you must apply to the Director of Fair
Trading and provide security to the Director in an approved
amount and form. The typical security provided is a bond or
letter of credit. The amount will vary depending on the type of
business conducted by you.
Exceptions to the licensing requirement do exist and include
contracts for the construction of a home where the contract
is covered by the Alberta New Home Warranty Program
and contracts for the construction or renovation of a
home where the contract is covered by the National Home
Warranty Program.
The key elements of the requirement for licensing for many of
the members of our Association therefore are:
the solicitation, negotiation or conclusion of a Pre-Paid
Contract away from your usual place of business (for example,
in the Consumer’s home); and
the receipt of money from the Consumer before all of the
goods or services set forth in the contract are received by the
Consumer.
Let me review several examples:
Scenario 1
If a salesman goes to a Consumer’s home, discusses an
improvement (for example, new bathroom fixtures, kitchen
cabinets, windows etc.), signs a contract with the Consumer
and takes a deposit from the Consumer, the business is
required to be licensed under the Act.
Scenario 2
If the salesperson goes to the Consumer’s home, simply
takes measurements and discusses such things as product
types, order times, general rates for work, warranty provisions
and the like and leaves, but the Consumer subsequently
comes to the salesperson’s office, reviews prices, signs a
contract and provides the salesperson with a deposit, the
business is required to be licensed under the Act.
Scenario 3
Same as Scenario 1 or 2 except no money changes hands
until the work is complete. No licensing is required.
A Consumer who has lost money as a result of what is
deemed to be an unfair practice can commence an action
against the offending supplier. If successful, a Court may
declare the supplier’s practice to be unfair, award damages for
the loss, including punitive damages, make awards for specific
performance, restitution or recession of the contract and may
grant a restraining order against the business.
A breach of the Act reported to Alberta Government Services
staff will result in an investigation of the complaint. If
warranted, the Director of Fair Trading has the authority to
ask a supplier to provide a promise to abide by the Act and
repay Consumers who have suffered as a result of the unfair
practice. If the business refuses to sign such an undertaking,
the Director can take Court action. Penalties can include:
up to 2 years in jail;
fines up to $100,000.00 or three times the amount gained as a
result of the offense, whichever is greater; or
both jail and a fine.
If an undertaking is provided and then breached by the
supplier, the Court may also order the payment of punitive
damages to the Government.
The provisions of the Act are much broader and more far
reaching than set forth in this article. There are several
publications which have been created by Alberta Government
Services including a Consumer Tip Sheet entitled “Unfair
Practices: The Fair Trading Act”. Additional information can be
obtained from Alberta Government Services in Edmonton at
(780) 427-4088 or toll free in Alberta 1-877-427-4088 or
www.gov.ab.ca/gs www.gov.ab.ca/gs.
If you have not recently done so, I would encourage all of you
to read the Code of Ethics of our Association. Breaching the
provisions of legislation in force in the Province of Alberta,
whether intentionally or not, without a doubt offends the
Code of Ethics. I would encourage all members to review
your current business practices and the Act in greater detail to
determine whether the licensing of your business under the
Act is required. If so, I would urge you to take all necessary
steps at the earliest opportunity to bring your business into
compliance with the Act.
As a word of caution, I would point out that this article, for the
purposes of space constraints, has only touched on a small
portion of the provisions of the Act. There certainly may be
other provisions within the Act which you are not aware of
which may be of direct relevance to your business operations
and I would therefore encourage a comprehensive review. ■
professional development committee
Chair, Alphonse Pilon
The Professional Development Committee was conceived in
response to an identified need for improved professionalism
within the industry. It was recognized that education alone
would not guarantee the professional delivery of services to
the public; there is a need to set standards and enforce those
standards. What the role of the Association or, for that matter,
the Committee, would be in that continuum is a matter for
membership debate. It was, however, agreed that there was
a definite need for increased professional development in the
residential construction industry, of which education is a part.
It was for this reason that the committee elected to adopt the
title ‘Professional Development’ versus ‘Education’.
It was agreed that the current situation of the Professional
Homebuilders Institute of Alberta (PHBIA) serves a valuable
but limited role. Significant elements of the industry are
currently operating without training and without guidance,
including sales and executive management. Having met only
once, the Committee recognized that it first needed to set
Terms of Reference for itself and thereafter, determine what
the requirements of the industry are. It was agreed that new
home sales is the most pressing need and would be the
committee’s first priority.
The Professional Development Committee meets monthly and
is comprised of the following:
Chair
Alphonse Pilon
Barb O’Neill
Madeline Sarafinchan
Mike Baker
Nick Iozzo
Richard Drader
Vishal Luthra
Marcson Homes
Greenboro Homes
Jayman Realty (Edm) Inc.
NoBurnCanada
Sabal Homes LP
Ironco Master Builders ■
Concept Homes 5th
Annual Charity Golf
Classic – a great success
On Thursday, September 2nd, Concept Homes held their 5th
Annual Charity Golf Classic at the Sturgeon Valley Golf Club.
Concept Homes would like to thank everyone who attended and
those who sponsored the event.
The tournament was a great success and over $20,000 was
raised for the CTV Good Neighbour Fund Charity. This registered
charity assists people in dire need in Edmonton as well as
Central and Northern Alberta. The CTV Good Neighbour Fund
has been in operation for nearly 20 years. They do not accept
government funding and have the lowest administration costs
of any charity in Canada. It was a privilege to assist them in
assisting those in need.
Registration started at 7 a.m. with a shot gun start at 8 a.m. It
was a beautiful day to mix and mingle on the course and swing
some clubs. Golf prizes were awarded at the barbeque steak
dinner held later in the afternoon. Many took the opportunity to
participate in the silent and live auctions which contributed to
the charity fund.
Mechanical (Silver Sponsors), our six Bronze Sponsors and
11 Hole Sponsors. “We were absolutely overwhelmed by the amazing support of
our industry,” said Dave Hinteregger, Vice-President of Concept
Homes. “It’s a wonderful testament to see how much people
really care about our community.”
Sold out weeks before the event, 144 golfers enjoyed the day
and played a great game of golf for a worthy cause.
We look forward to seeing you at the 6th annual Charity Golf
Classic in 2011.
We would like to especially thank all of our sponsors: Mission
Building Supplies (Gold Sponsor), Delton Cabinet and Star
Rick and Dave Hinteregger,
Concept Homes, a division of Concept Developments Ltd. ■
In Support of Our
Four-Legged Family
Members
Coventry Homes as the major corporate donor, the Edmonton
Humane Society has recently opened the Chappelle Centre for
Animal Care, located at 13620–163 Street NW, Edmonton.
While our focus is on providing great homes for humans,
Coventry hasn’t forgotten that animals need homes as well.
Homes for Hounds is a charity created by Coventry Homes
in support of the Edmonton Humane Society. Every year we
donate a portion of our home sales to the Society, which
provides shelter for homeless pets and works to find them
permanent families to live with.
We also host the annual Paws and Claws Gala; this black-tie
fundraiser is open to anyone interested in supporting a great
cause. With funds donated from various organizations, including
The 3rd Annual Coventry Homes Paws and Claws Gala was held
on Saturday, October 2nd, 2010 at the Coast Edmonton Plaza
Hotel. The sold out event was a huge success which brought in
an estimated $80,000!! Approximately 315 people attended the
gala, which included a dog fashion show featuring clothing from
the Edmonton Humane Society gift shop, an improv comedy
act, live music and a silent & live auction!
Watch for information about next year’s Gala next summer
so you have time to get a ticket before it’s too late! More
information can be found at www.coventry-homes.com ■
sales committee
Chair, Richard Drader
Co-Chair, Nicholas Carels
“It was the best of times, it was the worst of
times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age
of foolishness”. This direct quote, taken from the
opening lines of a novel written many years ago by
Charles Dickens, is reflective of our home building
industry today.
New home construction activity
is steadily on the rise and everyone
has a part to play in the rebuilding process.
The not-so-long ago boom years were the ‘best of
times’ for Sales Representatives in our industry.
Those years witnessed the successful promotion of many
finished products, including cement, framing materials,
finishing materials, lighting fixtures, flooring and paint. New
home sales volumes were higher than ever….
Then came the “worst of times”; the past two years has
seen a serious and severe drop in sales. The global economy
slumped to its worst level in years, leaving no local market
unaffected. New home sales plummeted and so too did the
demand for construction related materials and fixtures.
Through it all, the Canadian banking system showed wisdom
by staying true to time-tested and proven formulas and holding
the lending/earning ratios to manageable levels..
The residential construction industry has in many ways,
weathered the economic storm, and is now in a period of
recovery. New home construction activity is steadily on the
rise and everyone has a part to play in the rebuilding process.
The sale of every new home represents a whole series of
sales leading up to it. The land is sold from the Developer to
the Builder, the Builder hires the trades and purchases
materials and supplies to construct the home, and the new
owner buys financing from the Mortgage Lender. Every facet
of this marvelous industry is represented by people involved
in selling product, service and sometimes both.
Our newly reconstituted Sales Committee is committed to
being the voice of Sales Professionals across our industry. In
order to successfully fulfill that role, we require representation
from all concerned parties. Among the issues up for
discussion: sales recruitment, professional development
(involvement with PHBIA), Codes of Conduct, job safety, Sales
Person Certification, Sales Awards, Builder/Realtor Programs,
etc.
Through the development of a strong and dedicated Sales
Committee, we can better enjoy the best of times, ease the
pain of the worst of times, enjoy the rewards of wisdom, and
build an even better reputation with our customers.
The CHBA-ER Sales Committee meets every fourth Tuesday at
12 noon. Lunch is served. Contact Shelly Portmann, Programs
and Services Manger, for more information. ■
government relations committee
Last month the CHBA-ER welcomed a new member to our
team. Rick Preston has taken over from Joan Maisonneuve
as the new Government Relations Manager. He brings with
him over 20 years experience working with such companies
as Imperial Oil and Telus Corporation, where he specialized
in government relations, public affairs and public policy. Rick
is currently leading the development and implementation
of a new Strategic Plan for the way we, as an Association,
approach and respond to government related priorities.
• Build a relationship with government that ensures access to political and bureaucratic decision-makers, giving CHBA-
ER an opportunity to address priorities impacting industry objectives early in the policy development process.
A Fresh Approach to GR Planning
Strategic planning facilitates good management of
Government Relations. It takes us outside day-to-day activities
and provides a ‘big picture’ of what we are doing and where
we are going. It gives us clarity about what we actually want to
achieve and how to go about achieving it.
The ability to recognize our GR strengths, weaknesses,
opportunities and threats is an immeasurable asset. The
knowledge gained from such an analysis will provide us with
the ability to effectively engage in relationship building. The
maintenance and enhancement of those relationships will
accelerate our ability to achieve positive results.
It requires careful articulation of our strengths and weaknesses
and the opportunities and challenges we need to address. It
provides a framework within which to work and clarifies what
we are trying to achieve. This new plan will outline the CHBAER’s new approach to Government Relations and will provide
members with value and benefit in the long term.
The premise of this plan is to put into place measureable
objectives, supported by a related series of strategies, each
aligned with our six primary goals:
A strategic plan is not rigid. It does, however, give us
parameters within which to work. That is why it’s important
to base our plan on a real understanding of the external
environment in which we operate - the political landscape of the Capital Region.
The goal of our three-year Government Relations Strategic Plan
is to understand how we can educate, influence, persuade and
enlist the support of governments and key stakeholders to support our priorities.
The new GR Strategic Plan includes a series of long-term
complementary goals rather than one single goal; the aim is
to:
• Influence the regulatory and political environment in such a way that provides our industry with the franchise to operate.
• Build stakeholder awareness, understanding and appreciation of the importance and value of the $1.6B Home Building Industry in the Capital Region.
• Develop strategic alliances with other organizations that may be similarly impacted by government’s policy, legislative and financial (budgetary) decisions.
• Keep abreast of government activities that could affect the Industry adversely.
• Build relationships and develop a reputation with government decision-makers.
Strengths and weaknesses are internal factors. Opportunities
and threats are external factors. How we address those
challenges and act on our opportunities all comes down to us:
our relationships, our interactions, our views, our opinions and
our solutions.
Objective 1: Develop intelligence gathering networks (people
and technology driven) that will keep us continuously apprised
of all priorities before they become entangled in the issues
management arena.
Strategy: Be priority focused and be proactive.
Objective 2: Ensure meaningful dialogue and cooperation with
priority stakeholders.
Strategy: Know our stakeholders; develop a positive
atmosphere to work issues and opportunities.
Objective 3: Develop proactive relationships with
governments that position CHBA-ER as a meaningful partner in
all policy related ideas and decisions affecting the industry.
Strategy: Understand the governments’ decision-making
process.
Objective 4: Create a climate conducive to meaningful
relationships.
Strategy: Create a platform to resolve differences and varying
opinions/positions.
Objective 5: Proactively engage stakeholders by effective
listening, respecting views and opinions and working together
in a spirit of mutual gain.
The CHBA-ER GR Committee is currently in the process of
finalizing the 2010-2013 Government Relations Strategic Plan.
An approved copy (subject to Board approval) will be made
available on the CHBA-ER website (www.chbaedmonton.ca). ■
single/multi-family
committee
Chair, Len Walters
The CHBA-ER Single/Multi-Family Committee has been busy
setting up talks with the City of Edmonton to discuss plans
for areas outside the fire department’s ten-minute response
time. Although future fire halls are allocated for development
in those areas, the question of what to do until they are built
remains.
One suggestion the committee will be bringing forward is the
implementation of extra protection such as sprinkler heads
above unprotected openings. Although this solution does not
meet full compliance with the Alberta Building Code (ABC),
it will provide enough additional protection to allow the Fire
Department time to arrive on scene.
In addition to the fire response time issue, the committee is also
wrapping up work on the new Energy Code review. The group
is looking closely at issues dealing with heating and ventilation
systems, elements which will affect part 9 of the Building Code.
For more information, visit www.nationalcodes.ca.
The National Building Code should be ready for release this
month (December 2010), with an expected implementation
date sometime in 2012. As soon as the new Code is released,
the committee will begin the process of reviewing and
analyzing it. The first official review of the new Building Code
will occur this spring.
Although the Single/Multi-Family Committee is still in its early
stages of development, the group is making great stride
towards affecting change for the industry. The committee
is always looking for new, enthusiastic members to join
our team. Whether you’re strictly a single-family builder, a
multi-family builder, or both, this committee could be your
opportunity to learn, give back and build new contacts.
Committee meetings take place every third Tuesday of the
month at 12pm noon. For more information, contact Shelly
Portmann, Programs and Services Manager. ■
1-013-3
chba-alberta
technical report
by Joan Maisonneuve
If I had to pick a few words to describe the provincial technical
landscape at the moment, I would say “Codes & Standards”.
The industry has always dealt with changing Codes, but never
at the magnitude and complexity that we face today.
Today’s Codes are being driven not just by basic structural
sufficiency, but other issues such as resource use and aging.
Timelines for Code reviews are tighter than ever and often do
not take place in Alberta. Keeping track of Code changes is
daunting and requires a strong network of people connected
to many industries. Here is a short list of Codes coming our
way over the near future. So pick out your favorite, keep
informed and get involved.
National Energy Code for Buildings (NECB)
This Code applies to buildings over 600m2 OR three stories.
CHBA National has created an excellent set of “roadmaps”
that simplifies and prioritizes these Code changes and guides
builders through how to assess them. The changes with
the most potential impact deal with effective R-values and
insulation values, window area and glazing requirements
and heat recovery for HVAC systems. Alberta is considering
adopting the Code without changes and possibly without
review.
For more information go to www.chba.ca/members-area.aspx
National Building Code 2010 (NBC)
The anticipated release date for the NBC is November 29,
2010. At this time Alberta is looking at adopting the NBC
sometime in late 2012 or 2013, with review and comment
on Alberta specific changes only. Municipal Affairs is not
planning to review changes done at the national level as part
of the Alberta process. It is important that builders review the
changes in this document and if there are concerns contact
CHBA-Alberta so that we can ask to have them looked at prior
to adoption into the ABC.
National Building Code 2015 (NBC)
The process of revising the National Codes is now a
continuous process. Task groups are already underway
looking at potential changes for stairs, exterior insulated foam
claddings, window failures, changes to Part 5, and noise.
Energy Efficiency for Part 9 and Revision of EnerGuide
A task group is currently working on developing new Building
Code requirements for energy efficiency for Part 9 buildings.
This will go up for public review in the fall of 2011. The third
meeting of the Energy Rating System Review Committee is
slated for December 11, 2010 in Ottawa.
There is also work underway to define an energy efficiency
objective for the next National Building Code.
Changes to Water Heater Efficiency
NRCan is looking to increase efficiencies of gas fired storage
water heaters. CIPH managed to get the timeline for this
delayed as no equipment exists for some requirements.
A task group will be struck to review the timeline and
requirements.
Accessiblity/Visitability/Adaptability
The move to expand requirements in these areas is being
studied at both the national and provincial levels. B.C. has a
code for adaptability that is looked at as a blueprint by other
jurisdictions. Alberta is preparing for stakeholder meetings
this February.
For more information contact Joan Maisonneuve, Manager
Technical and Safety CHBA-Alberta 780-424-5890 ■
Now Available
New Home Purchaser’s Manual
A valuable resource to present to your new home owners.
We would like to thank the many company members who assisted
in contributing to and editing the manual.
Your contributions are greatly appreciated.
For order forms please contact Joy Van Marck 780.395.2982
or email at [email protected]
Port Alberta – The Future of our Region?
On November 9th, at the monthly Business Luncheon, Glen
Vanstone, Director of Cargo and Business Innovation at the
Edmonton International Airport, presented an informative and
provocative overview of the Port Alberta initiative currently
underway. He described the scope of the project and identified
its key elements:
• A multi-modal transportation hub;
• An inland port spanning the region;
• A gateway connector;
• An enabler for competitiveness and efficiency;
• A magnet for new investment; and
• An organization of Industry leadership.
painting it as more of a logistical coordination resource enabling
manufacturing and distribution growth within the entire region.
He used the Nisku Industrial Park as an example of an area that
has gone from exporting 20% of its production a decade ago
to one that today exports 80% of its product around the world,
using all of the resources available within the region.
Interestingly, he highlighted the need for businesses to mothball
the old adage that, ‘We don’t do things like that in Edmonton’,
pointing out that those features of our area which we take for
granted (like natural resources, space, and a highly-educated
workforce) are qualities that other ‘ports’ around the world look
on with envy.
He also went on to describe what the Port Alberta initiative is not:
• Only about airports, railways or transportation companies;
• A single initiative or facility;
• A government organization or government mandated initiative;
• Something that will benefit only one municipality; and
• Intended to stop trains destined elsewhere.
The message of Port Alberta is simple: Where we once
considered our northern location to be a limiting factor, we now
see it as a global marketplace that positions us ideally for the
next extended period of growth. By presenting the asset base
of Alberta, Glen graphically illustrated how Edmonton is the
natural ‘hub’ of the province.
Glen described the incredible opportunities that the Edmonton
Region currently enjoys, including raw materials, transportation
centrality, and a superior education and innovation base on
which to build the foundation for Port Alberta. He took pains to
dispel the myth that this ‘port’ was a central transportation hub,
Glen’s presentation sparked a number of questions about the
initiative and the mechanics of making it a reality. His energetic
and humorous style complimented a topic that promises to be
of ongoing interest to the Residential Construction Industry over
the coming decades. ■
1-012-3
Platinum Sponsor
2010 Volunteer
Gift Sponsor
Wine Sponsor
Drink Sponsor
Entertainment Sponsor
Presidents Reception
On Wednesday, September 29th, a reception was held in
the Association’s boardroom to honour our CHBA-Edmonton
Region Presidents. Seventeen Presidents attended and
enjoyed sharing memories and getting reacquainted. These
individuals dedicated their time and experience to bettering
the Association and the homebuilding industry in our area. Tim
Howard, Executive Officer, expressed appreciation on behalf of
all the members recognizing their dedication to the Association
and the Industry.
“Although I’m pretty much out of touch with the homes
builders’ issues at the moment, I have a passion for
association work, and believe very much in the tremendous
value of participation and involvement,” says past president,
Bill Briggs.
It is this passion, evident within all of our CHBA-ER Volunteer
Members, that makes our Association strong and our
industry successful.
Recognition Evening
Gold Sponsor
On behalf of the CHBA-ER, I would like to thank all of our sponsors and
the Volunteer Recognition Committee for putting together a great event.
It is through the support and dedication of our Volunteer Members that the
Association can continue to serve and improve the Residential Construction
Industry in the Capital Region. Over the past year, the CHBA-ER has instituted
and staffed nearly twenty new committees; the response and passion expressed
by our volunteer members has been nothing short of incredible.
As a way to say thanks, the Association will be hosting an annual Volunteer
Recognition Evening every November. The number one priority of the Volunteer
Recognition Committee is to make this event a true sign of our appreciation
and a great time for all who attend.
By now you should have received an online survey regarding this year’s event;
we would very much appreciate if you would fill it out and send it back to the
Association office. The intention of this survey is to see the event grow
and improve each year.
Silver Sponsor
Bronze Sponsora
Most importantly, on behalf of the Volunteer Recognition Committee, the
CHBA-ER and the staff, a very appreciative thank-you is extended out to all our
volunteers for their devotion and the countless hours spent on behalf of the
Association. It is such a selfless act to offer your own time to assist us in
moving toward our goals. Your volunteer efforts do not go unnoticed and we
are proud of all that you have achieved over the past year.
I hope to see you next year at the 2011 Volunteer Recognition Evening!
Wishing you a happy and safe Holiday Season,
Lisa Chmilar, CHBA-ER Volunteer Manager
In Attendance:
1973 & ‘74 George Frieser
1977 Arne Poulsen 1978 Bill Briggs
1990 Doug Hoffman
1992 John Hrynkow
1993 Burke Perry
1996 Dave Benbow
1997 Greg Christenson
1998 Ray Wills
1999 Bill Lusk
2000 Samir Hanna
2001 Ron Copithorne
2004 Ray Meredith
2005 Bill Davidson
2006 Peter Jackson
2007 Vince Laberge
2010 Sandra Young
2010 home and interior design show:
a recap
Member participation is extremely important to the ongoing
success of both the Home and Interior Design Show and the
Renovation Show.
Starting in the New Year, CHBA-ER will be forming a Home
Show Committee. This group will discuss ways to reinvigorate
membership participation in the Home Show and better
promote the show’s value to the public.
The 2010 Home and Interior Design Show took place October
1st – 3rd at the Edmonton Expo Center. Despite having to
compete with temperatures in the +20˚ range, from an
Association standpoint, the event was a success.
There were a few notable changes around the Show this year.
The first and perhaps most obvious, was the addition of
a brand new 600 square ft., centrally located CHBA-ER
information booth. Designed by the Renovation Committee for
use at the Fall Home and Interior Design Show, the February
Renovation Show and the RCIC Trade Show, this new booth
proudly displays information on all of the CHBA-ER’s programs
(including BuiltGreen™, the Smoke Detector Program and
Renomark™) and provides a space for members to mingle
with consumers and answer their industry-related questions.
On the marketing front, 10,000 CHBA-ER branded recyclable
bags were made up. Every person through the door walked
away with one. Leftover bags will be handed out at the
upcoming Renovation Show in February.
In a gesture to further enforce brand recognition at the Home
Show, the Marketing Committee created CHBA-ER signs for
all participating member companies to display at their booths.
These signs will be handed out at every Home Show and
Renovation Show, so that consumers will be able to instantly
distinguish CHBA-ER member companies from non-member
companies. As brand recognition grows, this distinction will
become a major value added for all CHBA-ER members.
As owners of the Home and Interior Design Show and part
owners of the Edmonton Renovation Show, the CHBA-ER has
a vested interest in seeing them grow and thrive. These shows
are a great way to get the CHBA-ER brand out there and
recognized, and for our members to really show themselves
off to the public.
The CHBA-ER Marketing
Committee will work closely with
the new Home Show Committee
to engage consumers in the
weeks and months leading up
to the event. That was done to
a certain scale this year as part
of the committee’s ‘Look for the
logo’ campaign. Advertisements
appeared in the Edmonton Sun,
the Edmonton Journal, Metro, the
Buyers’ Guide, Home & Condo
Living and on Global TV.
The ‘Look for the logo’ marketing
campaign stretched out over an
entire month and the results, so
far, have been quite promising. As
a follow up to April’s Condo Show
survey, the Association hosted
a short consumer survey at this
year’s Home Show. Participants
were asked: Do you recognize
the logo? Do you know what the
CHBA-ER logo represents? And,
have you ever used a CHBA-ER
Member?
Gilda Ketzer of Edmonton
took home the 2010
HomeShow draw prize of
an Apple iPod.
Out of 248 survey respondents, 70.6% said that they
recognize the CHBA logo. This is an increase of nearly 20%
from the same survey conducted just 8 months ago (In April,
48 out of 93 people indicated that they recognized the CHBA
logo). The number of people who know what the CHBA logo
stands for also increased by nearly 10%. Survey respondents
who have used (or knew that they had) used a CHBA-ER
member continues to hover around the 25% mark.
If you would like to participate in this new CHBA-ER
committee, contact Lisa Chmilar, Volunteer Manager for
details. ■
environmental
committee
Chair, Heiko Lotzgeselle
The City of Edmonton is developing a Green Building Strategy for all
commercial, industrial, institutional, mixed-use, multi-family residential,
and single-family residential buildings in Edmonton. The Way We Green,
Edmonton’s environmental strategic plan, has two main areas of focus:
environmental sustainability (understanding the limits of nature and how
Edmontonians must live within those limits) and resilience (understanding
the environmental disturbances that our city may face and the capacity
that is needed to withstand them and bounce back intact).
On November 3rd, the City held a public forum to disperse information
and gain feedback on its proposed The Way We Green plan. The forum
offered six information desks, each focusing on one of the plan’s major
areas of focus:
Waste Management & Ecological Footprint: Edmonton is nationally
recognized for its recycling program, yet we continue to produce more
waste per household than most cities. Most of Edmonton’s nonresidential waste is not recycled at all. What’s more, our city’s ‘ecological
footprint’ is more than three times the national average.
The Way We Green aims to reduce Edmonton’s ecological footprint and
the amount of waste we generate. Among the proposed objectives, is
a plan for Edmonton’s non-residential sector to achieve the same waste
diversion rate achieved by the residential sector.
Air Quality: Edmonton’s air quality has improved significantly since the
1970’s. The percentage of “Good” air quality days in 2009 – as measured
by the provincial Air Quality Index – was approximately 96%. As the city
grows however, so does the risk of harm from vehicle travel and industrial
emissions. Edmonton’s air must remain fresh, clean and safe.
The Way We Green could recommend policies intended to ensure that
water quality and quantity in our portion of the North Saskatchewan River
watershed is maintained. Proposed policies include: supporting water
quality and flow objectives for our river and its tributaries, supporting
aquatic ecosystem health for water bodies, maintaining, restoring and
protecting wetlands and shore areas and giving priority to Low Impact
Development (LID emphasizes conservation and use of on-site natural
features to manage storm water flow and protect water quality).
In addition to a questionnaire specific to each of the plan’s six major
categories, the forum included a town-hall type discussion period, where
attendees had the opportunity to ask specific questions about the plan
and its potential impacts. As is often the case with these public forums,
the overall involvement of citizens, interest groups and industry was
small, especially in comparison to the impact a plan like this could have
on the way we live, function and operate as Edmontonians.
As a major stakeholder – not to mention, representative of an industry
very much at the center of change in terms of The Way We Green’s
proposed policies – the CHBA-ER has been invited, and is participating
in, a City-run Working Committee on the Development of Edmonton’s
Green Building Strategy. This project was initiated in October and will be
completed by July/August 2011. It is critical that the voice of our industry
be reflected in the discussions, and ultimately, in the policies drafted up
around this issue.
Coming soon, Members can visit www.chbaedmonton.ca to find up-todate information on the Working Committee’s progress and the CHBAER’s position as it relates to The Way We Green. For more information on
the proposed policy, visit www.thewaywegreen.ca.
CHBA-ER’s involvement on this committee will be spearheaded by the
CHBA-ER Environmental Committee, in cooperation with the Government
Relations Committee. Interested Members are encouraged to contact
Shelly Portmann, Programs and Services Manager, for more information
on how to get involved. ■
The Way We Green aims to strengthen the City’s existing commitment
to air quality. Proposed policies include increasing air quality monitoring
throughout Edmonton and adopting higher air quality standards.
Energy & Climate Change: Edmonton is not considered a leader in
energy-efficiency. The proposed plan points out two major contributors to
energy use in our city: sprawl and non energy-efficient buildings.
The Way We Green would recommend policies aimed at improving
our City’s energy sustainability. Objectives include making sure that
Edmonton’s building stock is energy-efficient and ensuring that the City’s
overall built form promotes energy-efficiency. Proposed policies include:
using pricing and taxation to encourage densification and discourage
sprawl, requiring new neighbourhoods to be energy-efficient; developing
the City Center Airport lands as a model of sustainable development and
adopting zoning regulations that promote energy-efficiency (e.g. passive
solar heating; reduced exposure to winds).
Food Security: There are some risks to the future supply of food to
Edmonton. Higher fuel prices and higher global demand may significantly
increase the cost of importing food, and the land available for food
production is diminishing.
The Way We Green aims to ensure that Edmonton has a resilient food
and agricultural system. One suggestion is to establish a Food Policy
Council, responsible for a food charter and a food agricultural strategy.
Biodiversity: Despite the City’s efforts, more natural areas are still lost
in a given year than protected. Biodiversity is on the decline around the
world, and Edmonton is no exception.
The Way We Green aims to maintain biodiversity in our city by integrating
biodiversity considerations into all aspects of its governance and
development planning. One proposed recommendation is to establish
biodiversity offset approaches that require the replacement of biodiversity
that is lost through developments.
Water: The North Saskatchewan River is Edmonton’s sole source of
water. Future challenges to water supply and quality may result from
growth and climate change.
1-005-3
Keeping Albertans Safe at Work
Innovative product makes it easier
to protect employees
Alberta’s construction industry has a new tool that could
decrease the number of workplace injuries and assist in
compliance with government regulations. Safety in a Box™ is a
safety management starter kit that can be used to implement
and manage a company-wide safety program almost instantly.
ACSA has ensured all forms, log books, and NCR booklets
meet Certificate of Recognition (COR) standards and are
acceptable for the Small Employer Certificate of Recognition
(SECOR) program as well.
“It is an excellent concept,” says Thomas Lukaszuk, Alberta’s
Minster of Employment and Immigration. “The key to any
“The construction industry is extremely safety conscious
safety program is buy-in from everybody on the worksite. The
and incident rates are constantly decreasing because of the
easier it is to find all the
dedication of our organization and of the industry,”
information, the more
says Gary Wagar, executive director, Alberta
“When employees and customers
likely they are to use it.”
Construction Safety Association. In 2008, the lost
time incident rate for the industry was 2.02, down
know that safety underlies everything Government
from 2.41 the year before. In 1997, the rate was 5.2.
Safety in a Box™ offers companies an easy way to
start a safety program or to simplify what they’re
doing already.
you do, it adds to your reputation and
makes it easier to attract new staff
members and clients.”
Reducing workloads, improving buy-in
Packed with field-ready logbooks, NCR booklets and a user
guide, Safety in a Box™ contains everything small- and midsize companies need to set up and manage an effective safety
program in a matter of hours.
It can also reduce the workload for prime and general
contractors, who can simply direct subtrades to purchase a
box from ACSA before they come on site.
“I used to be a construction manager and I saw the difficulties
contractors had in implementing safety,” says Al Head,
president and founder of Safety Ahead Ltd. in Edmonton. “This
product gives you a standard process, and that’s going to be
very important as demographically driven labour shortages
lead to rapid promotion,” says Head.
wants to see safer
workplaces
Safety in a Box™ comes
at a good time; the
Government of Alberta
is in the process of
implementing ten initiatives to improve occupational health and
safety accountability and transparency.
“Since we are going to increase openness and transparency,
employer injury and fatality records will be made public. Since
we are going to step up enforcement, we will be cracking
down on employers with high injury rates or with unsafe
conditions. Both of these are good reasons to have effective
safety programs,” says Lukaszuk.
But those who want to play by the rules may not have the
time, money or staff to ensure an effective safety program is
in place. They may not even be fully aware of what they have
to do.
“Reading through the manual [that comes in Safety in a Box™],
I learned a lot about my responsibilities as an employer to
my employees, and what their responsibilities were to me,”
says Chris Burchett, owner of Sylver Technologies Inc. in
Edmonton. Burchett uses contractors and wanted an easy-touse safety program to protect them. Safety in a Box™ fit the
bill. Burchett adds that safety is something increasing numbers
of customers want to see.
Wagar agrees. “When employees and customers know that
safety underlies everything you do, it adds to your reputation
and makes it easier to attract new staff members and clients.”
Safety in a Box™ contains everything seen here; NCR booklets,
field-ready logbooks, checklists, caution cards and a comprehensive
User’s Guide.
The tool is meant to help companies make safety a priority.
“Safety should be part of the fabric of your company,” says
Head. The product can be ordered by calling ACSA’s offices in
Edmonton or Calgary. ■
1-018-3
safety committee
By Don MacMullin
Winter Heating Competency in New Construction
What does it take to stop a builder from building in Alberta? It
certainly isn’t snow, ice, or freezing wind! In Alberta we have
learned as builders to adapt to the ever-changing environment
and we use all available tools of the trade to make our jobs as
comfortable and profitable as possible.
Heating under-construction homes has become second nature
to Alberta builders. Direct-fired and electric heaters are used
across the province to keep construction workers warm. These
heaters also make concrete placement, bricklaying, plastering,
dry walling, and painting possible under cold conditions.
The danger of being so comfortable with using heaters in
construction sites lies in the complacency and bad habits of
often poorly trained workers or sub-trades. In the winter, large,
high-BTU portable heaters fuelled by propane are the most
viable option for keeping workers warm. There are, however,
obvious safety concerns that go along with using these
devices.
There is potential for harm to the structure you are working
on and, of course, to the workers themselves. To avoid the
potential for heater-related incidents, remind your workers of
these safety essentials:
• Electric heaters are convenient to use, however they too
require ventilation and need to be connected to electrical panels. This should only be done by competent workers
or electricians. Have
heaters inspected,
…adequate ventilation
tested, tagged,
must be provided,
repaired, and installed
by a qualified LP-Gas
even to electric heaters.
technician or electrician
prior to the heating
season.
• Do not hang an electric
heater from a beam or
truss and always provide
airflow to the heater.
Do not place an electric
heater in the corner of a
room.
• Protect all propane hoses
and electrical cables from
physical damage and
exposure to excessive
heat. Avoid running
hoses through a doorway, as a closed door will pinch the
hose and/or cause potential damage to the hose/cable and
improper gas flow to the heater (which in many cases will
cause the heater to burn out). If a hose/cable runs through a
window, make sure to put a block on the sill to prevent the
window from closing on and pinching it.
•Do not operate a heater
in an unventilated area.
Training is essential
Always crack a few
windows (on the second
in alerting employees to
floor, where possible)
heater hazards such
to evacuate excess
accumulation of CO
as CO exposure.
fumes and heat. MOST
IMPORTANT – Explain to workers that adequate ventilation
must be provided, even to electric heaters. Remind
workers not to block stair openings or doors. When
the temperature in a heated area is too cold, workers should request more/bigger heaters, as opposed to closing openings.
• Be sure to keep propane tanks upright, (at least six feet
from the actual heater), and on a firm, level surface. Propane
tanks should always be placed outside the home.
•Do not use site heaters in a manner for which they were not
intended (e.g., cooking or warming/drying clothing.) Read
the Manufacturers Specifications for using control knobs
and any other relevant information (e.g. Some heaters do
not have a low to mid setting - only all on and all off.)
• Do not use heaters in areas where they may easily ignite
combustible materials (e.g. paint, paper, insulation, or
plywood). Do not place a heater directly on a plywood
floor; position it instead on a 4-foot by 4-foot square of
fire-resistant drywall or cement-board. Be sure to remind
workers that extreme heat can ignite without flame.
Training is essential in alerting employees to heater hazards
such as CO exposure. Provide them with Hazard Assessments
and Emergency Response Procedures. You can also have the
rental company supplying your heaters provide workers with
a “Heat School” to relay all relevant, operational, and safety
information to them prior to starting a job. ■
1-010-3
economic update
Edmonton’s housing starts to remain steady in 2009
According to Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation’s
(CMHC) fourth quarter 2010 Housing Market Outlook Prairies
Highlights report, it is expected that all three Prairie Provinces
will report substantial gains in housing starts in 2010 and
moderate only slightly in 2011. In 2011, housing starts across
the Prairies are forecast to moderate by less than two per cent.
Across Alberta, the likelihood of rising single-detached
inventories will cause builders to ease production over the
remainder of 2010 before gradually increasing production in
2011. Moderation in single-detached starts for the remainder of
2010 will still allow starts to be nearly a third higher than 2009
levels. Market conditions that favor the buyer exist in Alberta’s
housing markets and will likely continue in the months ahead.
A firming labour market with employment growth and wage
gains will support new home sales. A movement towards
improved market balance in 2011 will allow single-detached
starts to increase slightly in 2011.
At the local level, a growing economy will help to spur demand
for new homes, but higher prices and a well-supplied resale
market will prevent any overall gains in production levels. Total
housing starts across the Edmonton CMA will reach 9,700
units by the close of 2010, representing a 54 per cent increase
over 2009. According to CMHC’s Fall 2010 Housing Market
Outlook report, activity levels will remain relatively stable in the
coming year with production close to the 9,600 mark in 2011.
Single-detached starts
in the Edmonton region
will top 6,000 units this
year for the first time
since 2007. Multi-unit
starts will reach 3,650
units, representing an
increase of 51 per cent over 2009.
Single-detached starts
in the Edmonton region
will top 6,000 units this year
for the first time since 2007.
Apartment starts fell to very low levels last year due to
developer concerns over rising apartment vacancy rates and
elevated condominium
Multi-unit starts will reach
inventories; this year’s
3,650 units, representing
expected tally will still
be below the ten-year
an increase of 51 per cent annual average of nearly
over 2009.
4,700 units that were
recorded from 2000 to
2009. In 2011, look for multi-unit starts of close to 3,600 units
as developers seek to reduce inventories and ramp-up the
presales required to finance
new projects.
Sales in Edmonton’s existing home market will decrease
by 18.5 per cent this year to fewer than 15,600 units. This
performance will mirror the previous low point reported in 2002
and is well below the ten-year average for sales from 2000 to
2009 of around 17,750 units. With buyers’ market conditions
expected to persist into the early months of 2011, look for
improvements to be modest, with total residential MLS® sales
close to 15,850 units.
The average residential MLS® resale price will rise by three per
cent in 2010 to $330,000. However, most of these gains will
have occurred under the balanced market conditions that were
in place during the early months of the year. With the buyer
gaining the advantage in the second quarter, prices began to
soften on a month-over-month basis. CMHC expects resale
prices to rebound by the second quarter on 2011, assuming the
current buyers’ market gives way to more balanced conditions
in the spring.
Richard Goatcher, CMHC’s Senior Market Analyst and Chair of
the CHBA-ER Economics Committee, will present his detailed
2011 Housing Market Forecast for the Edmonton CMA at
CHBA-ER’s February Dinner Meeting on Thursday, February
17th, 2011 at the Delta Edmonton South. Registration forms
are now available on the CHBA-ER website.
For more 2010 housing market summaries and to check out
forecasts for the coming year from CMHC and Altus Group,
visit chbaedmonton.ca. ■
INDUSTRY INSIDER REPORT
EDMONTON REGION (CHA)
Economy
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEPT
OCT
NOV
DEC
609.6
610
614.9
7.8
7.7
7.6
Employment (S/A)
2009
625.5
623
621.6
621.7
620.8
619.8
617.2
615.6
614.3
(Thousands)
2010
621.7
616.5
607.9
608.6
615.9
621.0
617.4
615.8
615.6
Unemployment Rate
2009
4.1
4.5
4.8
5.2
6
6.7
7.2
7.5
7.6
% (S/A)
2010
6.9
6.8
7.3
7.6
7.4
7.1
6.9
7.0
6.8
Total Net Migration
2009
13,385
10,311
Alberta - Quarterly
2010
5,413
10,102
4,336
-578
Source: Statistics Canada
new home market
Housing
Starts
Absorptions
Inventory
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEPT
OCT
NOV
DEC
Single-detached 2009
147
149
105
206
242
268
273
375
481
598
605
448
2010
397
484
513
620
540
635
610
519
498
Multi-family 2009
266
64
30
149
104
182
178
183
218
349
333
364
2010
180
158
300
787
449
316
339
171
375
354
285
253
316
297
326
312
357
269
281
318
328
268
280
428
469
444
397
1,199
1,117
1,118
2010
352
356
351
349
388
424
505
539
431
Multi-family 2009
566
437
237
165
279
387
502
1.279
558
2010
460
287
252
329
263
480
246
358
288
949
982
925
856
750
690
598
500
474
2010
419
404
402
382
401
409
383
436
466
Multi-family 2009
658
766
728
717
767
890
912
975
1,222
1,088
1,017
965
848
886
1,004
1,020
1,018
945
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEPT
OCT
NOV
DEC
502
737
882
1,217
1,500
1,603
1,391
1,044
1,084
969
792
592
2010
524
706
1,048
1,120
1,087
963
930
766
773
Condominium 2009
189
279
385
502
608
672
674
519
470
457
372
282
2010
288
373
410
505
457
455
353
348
321
366,988
371,898
365,241
235,790
236,652
240,796
2010
Source: CHMC
EXISTING home market
Sales
Average
352,176
349,810
350,179
356,143
366,720
370,317
373,294
367,733
367,645
Price ($)
2010
364,637
371,327
388,980
387,202
390,005
390,049
379,701
372,253
370,654
Condominium 2009
238,464
229,685
228,390
237,141
243,744
247,733
243,869
242,367
244,274
2010
240,890
232,425
251,507
252,728
248,657
244,429
239,387
232,230
238,822
Source: RAE
Source: CMHC Housing Market Outlook, Prairies Highlights, fourth Quarter 2010
CMHC Housing Market Outlook, Edmonton CMA, fall 2010
MLS® is a registered trademark for the Canadian Real Estate Association (CREA). The term MLS® stands for Multiple Listing Service and is a registered trademark of the CREA.
1-017-3
election edmonton wards
meet your representatives
Ed Gibbons
Ward 4
Dave Loken
Ward 3
Kim Krushell
Ward 2
Tony Caterina
Ward 7
Linda Sloan
Ward 1
Jane Barry
Ward 6
Ben Henderson
Ward 8
Kerry Diotte
Ward 11
Don Iveson
Ward 10
Karen Leibovici
Ward 5
Bryan Anderson
Ward 9
Amarjeet Sohi
Ward 12
capital region election results
Incumbent (I)
New (N)
City of Edmonton
Mayor Stephen Mandel, (I)
Linda Sloan, (I)
Kim Krushell, (I)
Ed Gibbons, (I)
Karen Leibovici, (I)
Jane Batty, (I)
Tony Caterina, (I)
Ben Hendersen, (I)
Bryan Anderson, (I)
Don Iveson, (I)
Amarjeet Sohi, (I)
Dave Loken, (N)
Kerry Diotte, (N)
City of St. Albert
Mayor Nolan Crouse, (I)
Len Bracko, (I)
Roger Lemieux, (I)
Cathy Heron,(N)
Cam MacKay,(N)
Malcom Parker,(N)
Wes Brodhead,(N)
City of Spruce Grove
Mayor Stuart Houston, (I)
Jeff Acker, (I)
Wayne Rothe, (I)
Louise Baxter, (I)
Bill Steinburg, (I)
Searle Turton, (N)
Bill Kesanko, (N)
Town of Stony Plain
Mayor Ken Lemke, (I)
William Choy, (I) Darren Badry, (I)
Judy Bennett, (I) Dwight Ganske, (I) Robert Twerdoclib, (I)
Pat Hansard, (I)
County of Leduc
Mayor John Whaley, (I)
Betty Glassman, (I)
Audrey Kelto, (I)
Jocelyn Mackay, (N)
Clay Stumph, (N)
John Schonewille, (N)
Ruth Harrison, (N)
City of Leduc
Mayor Greg Krischke, (I)
Dana Smith, (I)
Dominic Mishio, (I)
Bob Young, (I)
David MacKenzie, (I)
Terry Lazowski, (I)
Glen Finstad, (N)
Strathcona County
Mayor Linda Osinchuk, (N)
Victor Bidzinski, (I)
Roxanne Carr, (I)
Peter Wlodarczak, (I)
Jacquie Fenske, (I)
Jason Gariepy, (I)
Brian Botterill, (N)
Linton Delainey, (N)
Bonnie Riddell, (N)
City of Ft. Saskatchewan
Mayor Gale Katchur, (N)
Ed van Delden, (I)
Stew Henning, (I)
Tom Hutchison, (I)
Don Westman, (I)
John Mather, (N)
Frank Garritsen, (N)
Parkland County
Mayor Rod Shaigec, (N)
Jo Szady, (I)
Dianne Allen, (N)
Denise Locher, (N)
Phyllis Kobasiuk, (N)
Darrell Hollands, (N)
Tracey Melnyk, (N)
Sturgeon County
Mayor Donald Rigney, (I)
Ken McGillis, (I) Tom Flynn, (I) David Kluthe, (N) Joe Milligan, (I) Karen Shaw, (I)
new members
Celico Builders Inc. Single Family Builder
Dolce Vita Homes LP Single Family Builder
#200, 11010 – 178 Street,
Edmonton Alta T5S 1R7
Phone: 780. 406.6195 Fax: 780. 406.6197
17324 – 106A Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta T5S 1E6
Phone: 780.498.1490 Fax: 780.438.1540
When Celico Builders Inc. builds a house we build one we
would live in! That has been our policy since we broke soil
for the first house we built in 2005. It was Maurizio Laccino’s
dream to be a builder – and he is a builder who is involved. Our
homes are quality built because we take care and have pride in
the work we do.
Prestige Eco Homes Single Family Builder
7340 Yellowhead Trail NW
Edmonton, Alberta T5B 4K2
Phone: 780.463.2458 Fax: 780.474.5835
Prestige Eco Homes is dedicated to providing high quality
homes at affordable prices. We strive to be different than
other builders by providing unique homes built with the best
products from all over the world. Limestone from the Middle
East, tiles from Italy, doors from the U.S… all put together
with a Canadian heart and mind.
Vicky’s Homes Inc. Single Family Builder
412, 2057 – 111 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T6J 4V9
Phone: 780.984.6666 Fax: 780.453.5006
Vicky’s Homes Inc.: “Built by a man, designed by a woman”.
We are proud to build homes as individual as you are. By
meeting and exceeding your expectations and offering unique
designs with attention to detail, we bring a breath of fresh air
to today’s new homes. Vicky works directly with each of her
clients throughout the entire building process from blueprints
to possession, taking customer service to a new level.
Michael Homes Inc. Single Family Builder
PO Box 42002 RPO Millbourne
Edmonton, Alberta T6K 4C4
Phone: 780.490 5608 Fax: 780.462.3945
Michael Homes Inc. is a quality new home builder with
attention to detail and customer needs. We are a new
and progressive builder utilizing eco friendly, innovative
construction practices.
“Experience the sweet life”, with Dolce Vita Homes LP – a
renaissance of building excellence, sensitive service and
personal value that makes the home of your dreams your
dream home tonight. Dolce Vita is dedicated to creating homes
of spectacular beauty, character and quality, but first, they are
committed to you.
Fancy Doors & Mouldings Ltd. General Member
9129 – 35 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta T6E 5Y1
Phone: 780.432.7700 Fax: 780.468.7147
Fancy Doors & Mouldings Ltd. supplies Interior doors -pre
hung or knock down, in stock or custom sizes – and exterior
doors, steel, fiberglass and wood. Side lights and transoms
are also available, along with a wide variety of mouldings, from
baseboards to fireplace mantels. We also carry a large selection of door and bath hardware and shelving hardware.
Brock White Canada Company LLC General Member 12835 – 170 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5V 1L8
Phone: 780.447.1774 Fax: 780.447.1778
Serving builders, trades and architectural professionals for
more than 50 years; Brock White is that one stop shop for
all your construction needs. Bricks, natural stone, cultured
stone, EIF’s, stucco, waterproofing, concrete pour and repair,
landscape materials, geotextiles and more! Put our expertise
to work for you!
TNN Maintenance & Cleaning General Member
15823 – 99 Street
Edmonton, Alberta T5X 4C7
Phone: 780.909.7736 Fax: 780.665.4374
TNN Maintenance & Cleaning is a construction site cleaning
company that does exterior site cleanups, interior vacuums
and sweeps, basement washes, installation and maintenance
of window wells. TNN Maintenance & Cleaning provides
installation of window well rock and dirt, new home warranty,
snow removal, pressure washing, water pump-outs and other
maintenance and odd jobs.
Bartle & Gibson Co. Ltd General Member
13475 – Fort Road
Edmonton, Alberta T5A 1C6
Phone: 780.472.2850 Fax: 780.476.6686
Bartle & Gibson Co. Ltd. has been in business for over 65
years with 31 locations across Alberta, British Columbia and
the Northwest Territories. We specialize in plumbing, heating
and electrical supplies for residential, commercial and industrial
projects. Our staff is extremely knowledgeable and happy to
assist you with your requirements.
Hahn & Houle LLP General Member
#202, 10150 – 100 Street,
Edmonton, Alberta T5J 0P6
Phone: 780. 429.4403 Fax: 780. 423.4836
Hahn & Houle LLP Chartered Accountants has been
serving clients in Alberta since 2004. We lend our expertise to
a range of clients including those in manufacturing, dealership,
construction and professional service industries. Our services
include accounting, auditing and access to leading edge tax
strategies, valuations and advisory services.
Extreme Excavating & Backhoe Services Ltd.
General Member
Box 3614
Spruce Grove, Alberta T7X 3A8
Phone: 780.960.5033 Fax: 780.960.7386
Extreme Excavating & Backhoe Services is a customer
driven company with highly experienced employees and an
outstanding management team to care for all your excavation
needs from excavation through backfill, septic systems and
utility installation.
Nerval Corporation General Member
17552 – 107 Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta T5S 1E9
Phone: 780.452.1111 Fax: 780.452.5775
Nerval Corporation is a wholesale manufacturer and
distributor of building supplies such as: sinks, faucets, shower
doors, toilets, mirrors, granite, bathroom hardware, and
deck railing. Other goods available: framed pictures, lamps,
commercial carpet and Hospitality Industry case goods.
Nerval Corporation has been in business since 1985.
spirit of udi awards
The Urban Development Institute (UDI) Greater Edmonton Chapter is pleased to announce the 2010 recipients of the SPIRIT OF
UDI AWARDS.
The awards were presented on the evening of Friday, November 5th at The Derrick Club. Over 230 people attended to honour and
show their appreciation to three very distinguished industry members.
Larry Newton of Stantec Consulting Ltd. was recognized with the Outstanding Contribution to Industry Award. Joining Larry is his daughter Deb and wife Leigh.
Carol Wallace of Melcor
Developments received the Spirit
of UDI Award. Joining Carol is her
husband Derek.
Doug Kelly, retired from
Carma Developers, received
the Honourary Life Membership
Award. Joining Doug is his wife
Lindsay.
Local Builders Compete for a Great Cause
as the Second Instalment of the Habitat
for Humanity Frame Game Kicks Off
When our team assembled that Saturday morning - all wearing
company t-shirts - we found a very organized operation. The
materials were laid out for each duplex, there were power
tools available for use, two cranes were located ideally
between construction sites, an ambulance was ready on
site, and plenty of HFHE coordinators and building inspectors
were visible. Those variables - along with a forecast of plus
twenty degrees - helped a couple of teams, including ours,
beat the winning time set out by the previous FRAME GAME
participants.
As much as the FRAME GAME was a friendly competition
between builders, this build was actually a cooperative effort
by all involved to ensure the duplexes were put up with the
utmost attention to quality and workmanship.
The second round of Habitat for Humanity’s FRAME GAME
took place on Saturday September 25th. While it was a sunny
September day, the 8 teams competing had to work in the
shadows of the 8 teams from the first FRAME GAME on
September 11th. The first row of duplexes were erected, some
even with the roof, and the winning time for framing a duplex
was just over 6 hours. Habitat for Humanity introduced their
own team which would compete that day and inspired us all to
put forth best efforts for this worthy cause.
When Habitat first sent out the application to enter the
FRAME GAME, the notice listed several companies which had
already committed to participating. There was no hesitation
to enter when Cameron Homes received the email. We have
been privileged in the past to donate to Habitat’s projects.
What was impressed upon us most when we last visited an
HFHE site was that the volunteers were part of something
truly special.
Besides giving to a worthy cause and providing much
needed housing, we felt honoured to have the opportunity to
experience that amazing feeling that comes along with being
part of a Habitat project. When it came time to recruit team members, we had an
overwhelming response. More people wanted to participate
than we had spots on the team!
Building a house is not the same as building a home. While
a house is built with materials and mechanical components,
a home is built with care, family values, and mostly, a lot of
heart. A home should be a haven from which a family lives
and grows. As a
family owned and
run company, we feel
this is important and
we recognize that we
have been fortunate.
What better way is
there to contribute
than through a
“hands on” project
like the FRAME
GAME.
Cameron Homes
was thrilled to help
with this stage of
the HFHE Anderson
Gardens build;
framing a duplex is
but a small part of the
incredible effort put
forth by Habitat and
those who work on
its behalf. ■
calendar of events
13 Thursday
december
18 Tuesday
1 Wednesday
Noon – 1 p.m. Environmental Committee
3 – 4 p.m.
3:00 p.m.
RCIC Sessions Committee
7 Tuesday
11:30 – 1 p.m. Business Luncheon Meeting
Royal Glenora Club
3 – 4 p.m.
RCIC Chair Committee Meeting
8:30 – 9:30 a.m.Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner Committee
Noon – 1 p.m. Economics Committee
19Wednesday
8:00 am
Government Relations Committee
9 – 10 p.m.
Awards of Excellence Event Meeting
20Thursday
Noon – 1 p.m. Renovation Committee
8 Wednesday
25Tuesday
Noon – 1 p.m. Safety Committee
Noon – 1 p.m. Sales Committee
9 Thursday
26Wednesday
Noon – 1 p.m. TAC Committee
5:00 p.m.
14Tuesday
9 – 10 p.m.
15Wednesday
Christmas Dinner
Shaw Conference Centre
7:30 – 9 a.m.
Builder Breakfast
Petroleum Club
4:00 p.m.
CHBA – ER Board Meeting
27Thursday
Noon – 1 p.m. Single Family/Multi Family Committee
Awards of Excellence Event Meeting
7:30 – 9 a.m.
Builder Breakfast
Petroleum Club
8:00 a.m.
4:00 p.m.
CHBA – ER Board Meeting
28Friday
5:00 p.m.
President’s Gala
The Westin
february
16Thursday
1 Tuesday
Noon – 1 p.m.
23Thursday
2 Wednesday
Noon Office Closed til January 3, 2011
Happy Holidays to Everyone
8 Tuesday
Royal Glenora Club
january
9 Wednesday
4 Tuesday
Noon – 1 p.m.
TAC Committee
3 – 4 p.m.
5 Wednesday
11 Tuesday
Royal Glenora Club
12 Wednesday
TAC Committee
10 Thursday
16 Wednesday
8:00 a.m.
17Thursday
5:00 p.m.
Dinner Meeting – Economic Forum
Delta Edmonton South
Dates are subject to change.
Ply Gem Canada introduces new Concorde
collection of energy efficient windows with
stylish options for replacement and new construction
• The hybrid Concorde window offers style and durability with a vinyl interior and five available
solid-coloured PVC extrusions on the exterior.
• The window qualifies for ENERGY STAR® in Canada.
• The Concorde window is part of the Premium Series of Ply Gem Canada products.
Ply Gem Canada announces the introduction of its Concorde
vinyl hybrid window for the new construction and repair/
remodel markets. The vinyl window is enhanced by solid-colour
extruded PVC casing on the exterior to form a hybrid window
that allows the consumer to choose two different colours for
the inside and outside. Unlike competitive products that offer
painted vinyl exteriors, the five earth tones of the Concorde
window won’t easily scratch or damage.
In addition to its colour options, the window promotes
environmental sustainability through its energy-saving
properties. All of the Ply Gem Canada Concorde window
models qualify for ENERGY STAR certification in Canada.
Concorde is available in casement, awning, fixed and picture
window styles that accommodate
triple-glazed glass packs for
higher glass performance ratings.
“The new Concorde window
meets the needs of valueconscious homeowners who are
looking for a window that offers
both style and energy efficiency,”
said Andrew Thompson,
marketing manager, Ply Gem
Canada. “Our Fusion window,
which combines vinyl inside with
extruded aluminium outside, has
been extremely popular since
its introduction two years ago.
Concorde allows customers to
get the benefits of solid-coloured
PVC extrusions on the exterior
without the expense associated
with extruded aluminium.”
The new construction version of the
Concorde window has an integral
nail flange for easy installation. The
replacement version has a brickmold
option with a snap-on cover for clean,
exterior lines. Concorde uses the
same base frame sections as the popular Ply Gem Canada
Fusion window but replaces the extruded aluminum exterior
with extruded vinyl. The Concorde window is part of the
Ply Gem Canada Premium Series that offers windows with
enhanced features at a value-packed price.
For more information, please visit www.plygem.ca.
About Ply Gem Canada
Ply Gem® Canada, headquartered in Calgary, Alberta,
manufactures PVC, wood, and aluminum clad windows
and doors for the new construction and home repair and
remodeling markets. Formerly CWD Windows and Doors, the
company became a part of Ply Gem Industries in 2004 and
was renamed Ply Gem Canada in 2010. For more information,
visit www.plygem.ca. ■
The new construction version of the Ply Gem
Canada Concorde window has an integral nail
flange for easy installation.
The Ply Gem Canada Concorde replacement version
has a brickmold option with a snap-on cover for
clean, exterior lines.
1-007-3
1-001-3

Industry Insider - November /December 2010

Transcription

Similar documents

Located in Edmonton, Alberta, Northlands is one of Canada`s oldest

Owner User / Redevelopment

2014 year in review - Canadian Home Builders Association

Edmonton-6.11.07 (Page 1)

Keys to Mental Wellness and Happiness, from one student to

Third Party Event Media Kit

Simon Franchini

Cottswood Interiors 8x7.7_00043894

Express Spa Services - Spasation Salon and Day Spa

print fast facts edmonton journal - Postmedia Integrated Advertising