SAHBA News You Can Use – 05.01.20

Stay Home Order Extended to May 15 with Minor Changes – Governor Ducey has issued an amendment to the “Stay Home, Stay Healthy, Stay Connected” Executive Order originally set to expire on April 30. The amended order largely carries over the same requirements we are currently operating under but sets forth some relief for retailers starting May 4. Click here for the full order.

Code Amendment to Aid Builders Clears First Hurdle – On Wednesday, the Pima County Planning & Zoning Commission passed a code amendment that provides greater flexibility to home builders. If approved by the Board of Supervisors, this amendment would (for CR-3 zoning) reduce the front yard setback to ten feet for the main dwelling while maintaining the twenty foot setback requirement for the carport/garage in order to provide for on-site parking. This amendment will also increase the buildable area to sixty percent of the lot for dwelling unit. Currently the buildable area is limited to forty percent of the lot which includes structures except swimming pools.

Sahuarita Inspection Summer Hours – Starting Monday, May 4th inspectors will be moving to the summer schedule. They will be available from 6:00 am to 2:30 pm Monday through Friday.

Info on PPP Loan Forgiveness – As small businesses and organizations start to receive their Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funding, attention has turned to the next vital phase: loan forgiveness. Farhang & Medcoff is offering FAQs on what is relatively clear based on the currently available SBA guidance.

AZ Senators Support Stimulus for Trade Associations – On Monday, a bi-partisan group of Senators – including Sens. Martha McSally and Kyrsten Sinema – sent a letter to Senate leadership and the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship asking that 501(c)(6) organizations (local trade and professional associations which includes SAHBA) become eligible for assistance through the PPP in any future coronavirus stimulus bill.

NAHB/SAHBA Virtual Town Hall – Yesterday, Chief Lobbyist Jim Tobin and others on the NAHB Government Affairs team provided an update on the latest in Washington D.C., including an overview of legislative strategies and stimulus bill provisions that will help the home building industry.

Meeting to Focus on Impact of COVID-19 on Pima Co. Real Estate Market – The 2nd Quarter meeting of the Pima County Real Estate Research Council scheduled for May 21 will take place via Zoom and feature industry experts including SAHBA Board Member, Randy Agron of A.F. Sterling Homes and Rosey Koberlein of Long Realty. Click here for more info.

News & Information:

 

SAHBA News You Can Use – 04.24.20

New Round of Stimulus Funding – Congress is close to approving approximately $500B more in funding for the PPP and EIDL programs. As with the last round, it is expected these funds will go quick. If you didn’t receive funding the first time around, we strongly encourage you to ACT NOW!  Follow these links to get started:  PPP application form ; details on how the program works; a list of local financial institutions that includes whether they are SBA participants, who to speak with, and whether they are taking applications from people who are not current customers.

Tell Us How You Are Doing – We want to know how business is going and if you’ve taken advantage of SBA funding tools. Take a moment to complete this short survey .

Save Money with SAHBA’s Workers Comp Program – Did you know members can save up to 35% or MORE on their workers comp premium by switching to SAHBA? Click here for more info.

Impact Fees – On Tuesday, the Tucson Mayor & Council took an important step toward lowering residential impact fees by holding a public hearing on the proposed schedule. In addition to the current proposal to reduce fees, they are also proposing “emergency relief” in light of the coronavirus pandemic which will reduce fees further. SAHBA has been instrumental in working with the Council on this effort. Click here to see the letter we
submitted.

New WOTUS Rule & Effect on Permit Holders – On Thursday morning representatives from ADEQ provided SAHBA members an overview of the new Waters of the US rule and what it means for those who have Clean Water Act permits. The new rule becomes effective June 22. Click here for a copy of the presentation. Thanks to Trevor Baggiore, Randy Matas and David Lelsz of ADEQ.

Tech Committee Meets Virtually – SAHBA’s Technical Committee held its first Zoom meeting for nearly 50 participants this week. The policy agenda included updates on Marana Park Requirements, Oro Valley code amendments and various impact fee updates from the region. The highlight was Chairman Thrac Paulette, Cantera Real Estate , welcoming Development Service Department representatives from our five local jurisdictions to provide updates on their service operations. Members heard how each jurisdiction remains open for business and how their permitting and review practices have been impacted. This was a great for members to engage directly with these Department leaders.

Missed out on all this great information? – SAHBA Tech meets the third Tuesday of each month at 3:30 p.m. If you would like to be added to our distribution list, please email shawn@sahba.org

Important Tools for Member Companies – At last week’s Lunch & Learn, the team at Farhang & Medcoff provided terrific information for how businesses can navigate the current public health crisis. Click here for a copy of the presentation. Additional resources can be found through the Metro Chamber COVID-19 webpage which SAHBA is proud to support.

What We Are Reading:


SAHBA News You Can Use – 04.16.20

TODAY! Join the “Stand Down for Safety” –  NAHB is urging members, and all residential construction companies, to halt work for at least 10 minutes today Thursday, April 16, for a COVID-19 Job Site Safety Stand Down to educate workers on what they should do to keep themselves safe from coronavirus and to help “flatten the curve” for everyone. Click here for additional information.

Don’t Delay, File for Stimulus Dollars Today – If you haven’t already done so, take time to research and pursue options for small business relief including the PPP and EIDL.

Tucson Launches Resiliency Fund – Through the leadership of Mayor Romero, the City of Tucson and Community Foundation of Southern Arizona are launching the ‘We Are One-Somos Uno’ Resiliency Fund that will support nonprofits, workers, families and small businesses that have been negatively impacted by the pandemic.

Powerful Lunch & Learn Today – Thanks to Farhang Medcoff for adapting “on the fly” to make the April presentation all about how employers can navigate the coronavirus pandemic. Over 100 participants learned very valuable information. SAHBA and ACT were joined by ABA, ATBA and NAWIC as hosts.

Learn How WOTUS Changes Impact Your Permit – SAHBA is partnering with ADEQ for a webinar on April 23 at 9am to provide permittees with information to make decisions about permit coverage under the revised definition of Waters Of The US (WOTUS). Email shawn@sahba.org if you are interested in participating.

Government Affairs Update – Impact fees in the City of Tucson are going down for home builders. Click here for that information and other new developments.

Virtual Meeting Schedule – The Business Referral Exchange will meet and share leads on Tuesday, April 21st at 7:30am. Contact noel@sahba.org for more info. The Technical Committee will also meet on the 21st at 3:30pm. Contact shawn@sahba.org if you want to participate.

Welcome Caitlin – We are excited to announce the newest addition to the SAHBA team! Caitlin Dixon will be our Home Show and Signature Events Manager. She comes to us with extensive event management and fundraising experience most recently as the Director of Philanthropy for the Tucson Jewish Community Center.

On the Bright Side – Here’s a look at some positive indicators for housing.

 

SAHBA News You Can Use – 04.07.20

Small Business Relief: ACT NOW – Through the CARES Act, Congress has approved financial support for businesses offered through the Small Business Administration. We strongly encourage all member companies to speak to their tax advisor and/or local bank about the Paycheck Protection Plan and EIDL as soon as possible!

Webinar to Focus on Key COVID-19 Issues for Employers – We are tweaking the Legal Lunch & Learn series to feature a webinar on April 15 that discusses how employers can protect themselves during the COVID-19 crisis. Topics including: Force Majeure Clauses, Tips for Jobsite Health, Emergency Sick & Leave rules, and the CARES Act. Click here to sign-up.

Emergency Sick & Medical Leave – The Families First Coronavirus Response Act went into effect on April 1st. Click here for a summary of the details of what the Act covers, who is eligible, and how to compensate an employee for the time off. Please remember that this is not automatic pay for employees, but to be used if the employee cannot work (including telework) for one of the established COVID-19 reasons outlined in the Cares Act. This is not to be used to pay people because work is not available to them.

Remodelers Goes Virtual – Last Wednesday the first virtual council or committee meeting took place when the Remodelers hosted Mike and Brett from Snell & Wilmer who provided a great presentation on programs being administered through the Small Business Administration as part of the CARES designed to support small businesses through the pandemic. Kudos to Council Chair Patty Richardson and the entire Council for leading SAHBA into the world of virtual council and committee meetings!

Government Affairs Report – Click here for the latest update on local government and impact on home building.

New Tool for Job Seekers and Job Providers – Pipeline AZ is working to help alleviate the impact of COVID-19 by aggregating real time immediate job openings and offering pathways to future careers for all out-of-work Arizonans, connecting those affected by the crisis with industries in need. Please check out:  Now Hiring #C19AZ f or more information.

News from the Capital – Here’s a snapshot from the legislative scene from our lobbying team. Update: In a recent news article , S peaker of the House, Rusty Bowers, suggested delaying the restart of the legislative session which had been planned April 13.

COVID-19 Testing – On Sunday, the Arizona Daily Star ran an article featuring Tucson business ARCPoint Labs offering a rapid test for the blood-borne anti-bodies that signal a person has recovered from coronavirus. Friends of SAHBA, Colleen Edwards and Wendell Long are co-owners of ARCPoint. Testing starts at $60 and results are ready in 10-20 minutes.

Be Counted! – Census data determines how more than $675 billion are spent for state, county and local programs and services. For the first time ever, you can take the census online. Click here to get started.

Support Members and Local Businesses – Throughout this unprecedented time, thousands of businesses – including restaurants – are attempting to maintain a level of business to meet the needs of their customers and retain their employees. This includes hundreds of SAHBA member companies . We encourage you to help support these businesses to ensure they survive.

Help, Support and Services from Members to Members – SAHBA wants to hear from our members if they are offering programs, services, training, discounts or other things that would benefit fellow members. On April 9th, Anchor Wave is hosting a webinar on attracting customers in an unpredictable market. Here’s the link to register. Please send your featured member-to-member benefits to david@sahba.org

Shout Out to Local Chambers – Here’s a quick look at just a few of the programs offered by local Chambers of Commerce (also SAHBA members) to help Southern Arizona communities:

Tucson Metro Chamber
“ Knowledge at Noon” a daily FREE Zoom meeting, open to members and non-members covering current COVID-19 topics. Click here to view schedule.
Marana Chamber
Supporting Marana businesses with Bingo. Squares include: buy gift cards, shop local online, help a business owner with childcare and more. Click here to play.
Oro Valley Chamber
The Chamber and its Foundation partnered together to contribute $10,050 toward the purchase of $75 grocery cards at WalMart to be distributed to employers who’ve furloughed or laid off workers due to the coronavirus pandemic.

 

SAHBA News You Can Use – 03.27.20

WHAT WE KNOW
Government Affairs – Click here  for the latest report on how government agencies and officials are responding to COVID-19 and the effect on services to the building industry. For those who have not seen it, Governor Ducey issued an Executive Order defining Essential Services which includes housing construction.

Effective April 1: New Water Meter Sizing Guidelines Marana – SAHBA has been working with Marana Water to get the new guidelines in place which in some cases will reduce fees.

Resources for Employers – Locally, the Tucson Metro Chamber of Commerce has partnered with other business groups, including SAHBA, and launched a comprehensive Resource Page for employers. The State of Arizona has also launched a website with info for employers and the public. SAHBA member Snell & Wilmer has also published several helpful articles

We All Need Some Good News! – Join us as we congratulate SAHBA members continuing to do their part during this unprecedented time #TucsonStrong #TucsonTogether:

Send your good news to share to kathy@sahba.org

NAHB Update  – Every SAHBA member is also a member of NAHB, which allows you to access all the information and resources they provide regarding the national response to COVID-19. Resources include: Construction Job Site Guidance , Changes in the Supply Chain , Family Leave Law

WHAT WE ARE WORKING ON
Progress on PPE’s but More Needed – On Tuesday, SAHBA dropped off over 150 masks and 130 pair of eyewear (special thanks to D.R. Horton and trade partners ) that will be delivered to local healthcare working on the front lines. Click  here  for steps on how to help or email david@sahba.org   for assistance.

Remodelers Council Going Virtual – As you know, the SABHA offices are currently closed, but in an effort to keep us all connected, the April Remodelers’ Council meeting will be LIVE online. In addition to Council updates , Snell & Wilmer will be highlighting the SBA Emergency Loan for small businesses. The meeting runs from Noon – 1PM on April 1st and is open to all members. We encourage you to show your support and join us for SAHBA’s first virtual Council meeting. Click here to attend.

Business-to-Business Networking Group Will Continue – The Business Referral Exchange (BRE) will host its April 7 meeting virtually. BRE participants highlight their companies and share business referrals. If you are looking to network and develop leads, this is the meeting for you. Click here to attend as a BRE member or guest

WHAT’S PENDING
Turn the Tables POSTPONED – We are disappointed to announce the postponement of this important annual event, but remain confident that when it does happen, it will be an important step in the rebound for our builders, trade partners and associate members. Stay tuned…

Fall Home Show Planning Underway, Spring Home Show Options Still Pending – The Home Show Team continues to explore options for showcasing Spring exhibitors’ products and services to our S. AZ consumers. Phone calls continue to spring exhibitors to review current options and gather feedback. Looking towards the Fall –
MARK YOUR CALENDARS NOW!
The 2020 SAHBA Fall Home Show will be returning to the Tucson Convention Center OCTOBER 2-4, 2020.

OUR REQUESTS TO YOU
Utilize SAHBA.org to Develop Your Business – Every member can fill a job need, list a member-to-member business opportunity or promote a HOT DEAL. Log in through your company’s Member Information Center (MIC) and get started. Need help? Try one of these quick and easy Member instructional videos :
    • How To Update Company Profile
    • How to Update Personal Profile
    • How to Post a Hot Deal
    • How to Add a Job Posting
Still lost? Email  kathy@sahba.org   for assistance.

Real-Time Updates Posted on Social Media – We will be using FaceBook and Instagram to post real-time updates and news so if you’re not already, be sure to follow us!
DON’T FORGET….Membership is More Critical than Ever  – Growing membership and supporting member to member business ensures our voice grows louder. It is through our collective strength that we will help one another and leverage our influence for the greater good.

 

SAHBA News You Can Use – 03.23.20

WHAT WE KNOW
Government Affairs, Ongoing and Pending – A government service delivery listing for our members. Click here for updates on permitting, inspections and political meetings, etc., currently being monitored.

Housing Construction Defined as Essential – Earlier today, Governor Ducey issued an Executive Order prohibiting closure of essential services which includes housing construction and public works construction.

New Laws and Guidelines for Employers – While the situation remains fluid, implications on member companies is felt in real time. Click on these helpful links with the latest information: Families First Coronavirus Response Act; Federal WARN Act applicability; and Furloughs, Reductions in Force, and Alternatives.

Service to our Community – Your help is needed in collecting PPE (personal protection equipment) for health care providers who are on the front lines treating COVID-19. The largest supply of masks OUTSIDE of medicine is the construction / painting / building industry. Click here for steps on how to help or email david@sahba.org for assistance.

In addition, according to the Red Cross there is a severe shortage of blood and donations are needed urgently. Please support the Tucson Association of Realtors blood drive on March 30. Click here for details.

NAHB response to COVID-19 – CEO Jerry Howard, Chief Lobbyist Jim Tobin and Chief Economist Rob Dietz hosted an interactive town hall on how NAHB is responding to the Coronavirus. Click here to view.

Membership is More Critical than Ever – Growing membership and supporting member to member business ensures our voice grows louder. It is through our collective strength that we will help one another and leverage our influence for the greater good.

WHAT WE ARE WORKING ON
Members Doing Business with Members (and the public) – SAHBA is working on specific ways to help members connect with other members and the public. It is key we try to support other SAHBA companies. Click here for the member directory.

Business Groups Working Together – SAHBA actively supporting the Tucson Metro Chamber and other Southern Arizona business groups to provide a resource page for area businesses.
Planning for Councils and Committees – Our Councils and Committees provide a valuable resource for news, information and networking. While we might not be able to meet in person for the foreseeable future, we are exploring ways to re-create this experience in a virtual setting. Stay tuned for updates.

WHAT’S PENDING
The Status of the Spring Home Show – We intentionally chose to “indefinitely postpone” the April Home Show to have the flexibility to pick another date, however, the situation is changing so rapidly and it makes picking a date for a rescheduled event nearly impossible. We have not ruled anything out and are currently exploring other options to meet the needs of exhibitors and our loyal customers.

How Long Will It Last – The term “flatten the curve” has become commonplace in our lexicon. While this is the goal, we don’t now the timeline to achieve it. SAHBA is presently looking at an 8-week horizon where we continue to provide services and facilitate business, but in a different way than we’ve done in the past.

Financial Relief – A question that is routinely being discussed and evaluated by business leaders and elected officials – at all levels – is whether there will be policy measures implemented that aid businesses. Here are a couple of helpful articles: SBA Loans and Government Assistance Contracts.

Impact on Home Building & Broader Economy – Single family permits were projected to increase in 2020. The coronavirus will undoubtedly have some effect on the housing market and the broader economy but how much is unknown at this time. Click here for an initial analysis.


OUR REQUESTS TO YOU

  1. Follow us on social media: Facebook and Instagram
  2. Do business with fellow SAHBA members
  3. Work with us to explore new ways of providing services
  4. Extend kindness
  5. Take all the appropriate measures being recommended for safety


SAHBA RESPONSE TO COVID-19

The health and safety of our members and staff is paramount. Our team continues to diligently monitor COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and take appropriate steps to minimize the impact the virus poses both within our association and the community we serve. This includes rescheduling or canceling events and taking every precautionary measure advised by public health experts.

Please note the following updates:

  • The Spring Home Show scheduled for April 3-5 has been indefinitely postponed.
  • All committee or other organizational meetings scheduled to take place at the SAHBA office have been canceled, through Friday, April 10.
  • Traditional office hours may be affected. Please call in advance of visiting our office. We are open for business but may be working remotely.
  • We are monitoring local building departments for closures that affect our members and will notify our members immediately if we hear of closures that may disrupt operations.
  • We deeply appreciate your support and patience.

 

During this challenging time, we want to reassure our members that we remain steadfast in our role to support member companies and the broader real estate, development and construction industry. Please do not hesitate to reach out if you have questions to info@sahba.org or 520.795.5114.