2024 November/December Building Insight by BIAW

FEATURED

Janelle Guthrie

CONTENT

Hannah Cassara

VISUAL

EXECUTIVE

Greg Lane

WASHINGTON

Al Audette

Janelle Guthrie

Bart Hansen

Jan Himebaugh

Stephen Hyer

ROII

Jenn Kavanaugh

Ashli Penner

LEGISLATIVE

Andrea Smiley

BIAW MANAGEMENT CONTACT US

Building Insight magazine is published on behalf of the Building Industry Association of Washington by Print Northwest. VP

Builders invest in Main Street

Earlier this year, BIAW’s Member Services Corporation approved an investment of $50,000 in five Main Street Washington organizations across the state to help revitalize their downtown districts.

I-2066 passes: What’s next?

Washington’s new energy choice law went into effect on Dec. 5 but questions remain around what’s next.

One of BIAW’s biggest accomplishments in recent years is undoubtedly the qualifying and passing of Initiative 2066. BIAW celebrated the win with members at their 2024 Fall Board Meeting in Vancouver. More than 540,000 individual voters and 400+ businesses came together to bring I-2066 to the ballot in just seven weeks.

As always, we want to hear from you! We invite you to take a quick survey about your thoughts on Building Insight. Happy reading!

President’s message

Jay Roberts President

Last year, when I gave my acceptance speech at the 2023 Installation and Awards Gala, I focused on two main priorities:

n The beginning; and

n The end.

Much of the time, our associations focus on recruiting new members and people to our industry.

But I also wanted to emphasize the importance of giving our current and even retiring members a reason to stay involved.

Looking back at everything BIAW has accomplished this year as the state’s largest and most prominent trade association, I think we’ve definitely met those goals. And that’s thanks to all of you.

LEADERSHIP IN ADVOCACY

First, I’d like to celebrate our legislative and legal work to protect the industry that builds the American Dream.

While we have focused many of our efforts over the last several years on protecting natural gas as an energy choice, let’s not forget our successes in the legislature last year.

Despite working in tough political circumstances, we passed five bills last session to help the industry.

Improving safety

Late last year, builders and remodelers told us they were learning of costly safety violations months after an inspector had documented them. By then, it was too late to fix the immediate problem so all members could do was pay the fines.

BIAW worked with Sen. Karen Keiser, longtime chair of the Senate Labor & Commerce Committee, on a solution. Next, Keiser joined BIAW at its Fall Board of Directors meeting. Then ultimately, she sponsored SB 5980, which became law on June 6, 2024.

This new law improves the timeline for issuing safety violation citations. That means builders can fix potential problems sooner, creating safer workplaces and helping to eliminate unnecessary fines.

Easing condo regulations

BIAW also helped pass SB 5792. This new law eases rigorous condominium development regulations so builders of multi-unit residential buildings/ condominiums that are two stories or less with 12 or fewer units can add one story of above- or below-ground parking or retail space. Previously, they had to build these structures under the more restrictive condominium codes.

Fixing confusing land use maps

When Washington’s new wildlandurban interface (WUI) codes came out last year, builders quickly pointed out the discrepancies in the maps used to guide the codes. SB 6120 allows local governments more opportunity to weigh in on the WUI maps to help ensure better land management to protect against wildfires and more opportunities to build. After the governor signed SB 6120, the State Building Code Council voted to suspend the new WUI indefinitely.

Adding flexibility in rural development

Another small but powerful bill we passed, SB 6140, provides more flexibility in rural development. This will bring more jobs and essential services to the areas where we build.

Improving the State Building Code Council

We all know how confusing it can be to keep up with the State Building Code Council, so BIAW worked to improve the processes the council follow. SB 6291 streamlines the State Building Code Council operating procedures and creates more certainty.

relationship with them, and they’ve become a valued partner and sponsor.

ROII continues to provide impressive returns

And don’t think I’d forget ROII. Year after year, we bring in record results, and 2024 was no different.

ROII participants have safer workplaces and excellent returns on their workers’ comp premiums. They also help support our state and local associations and our efforts to protect and defend our industry.

GROWING MEMBERSHIP

And that’s how we grow our membership. As I wrap up this recap of 2024, I want to celebrate the 444 new members you all attracted to our association as part of the BIAW Bracket Battle Membership Drive and the members you’ve brought in since.

We not only focused on recruitment, but we also continued to add value by supporting multiple new Professional Women in Building (PWB) councils. This group has grown so much that we’re now able to petition for a new statewide BIAW PWB council.

Congratulations to you all!

THANK YOU

As I prepare to join my colleagues at the past president’s table, I want to thank you all:

n For inviting me to your local events.

n For supporting statewide efforts to meet our goals this year.

n For all you do to support the American Dream of home ownership in Washington.

I’d also like to congratulate our 2025 President Kent Arola and give him my full support as he steps up to lead our association into its 75th anniversary year. The homebuilding industry is the foundation of our state. I’ve never been prouder to be a member of it!

2024 BIAW President Jay Roberts passes the gavel to incoming 2025 President Kent Arola during the Fall Board Meeting in Vancouver.

Executive Vice President’s message

Greg Lane Executive Vice President

What an extraordinary year 2024 has been for our association! By nearly every measure, 2024 stands as one of the most successful and impactful years in our association’s recent history—possibly the best in a couple of decades.

BIAW’s achievements this year reflect not only our collective strength but also the resilience and dedication of our members.

Membership growth

The 2024 BIAW Bracket Battle Membership Drive was a huge success in growing our strength in numbers. Together 64 BIAW recruiters brought in 444 new members across our 14 local associations, and 24 of those members qualified for ROII and the BIAW Health Insurance Program.

An extra big thanks goes out to grand prize winner Chuck Neibert of Affinity Homes LLC from the Building Industry Association of Clark County for recruiting 29 new members!

Increase in BIAW Health Insurance Trust enrollment

Showcasing its increasing value to our members, the Health Insurance Trust experienced impressive growth over the past year. Total enrollment rose by 1,252 participants, a 9% increase, while the number of participating groups grew by 636, a 7% increase.

Most notably, new employee enrollments increased by an impressive 80% from last year, adding 789 individuals to the program. These increases are a direct reflection of the renewed partnership negotiated by the members of the BIAW Health Trust and Capital Benefit Services with our program provider Regence BlueShield.

More ROII records

Once again, ROII continues to prove itself as Washington’s best retro program. This year, ROII received nearly $33 million from the Washington State Department of Labor and Industries for the three active plan years.

The 2020 plan year concluded with an outstanding final adjustment refund of 47%, marking ROII’s highest final adjustment refund ever! Thank you to each and every ROII participant for your dedication to safety and for making this achievement possible.

New Construction Trades Training Academy

A big accomplishment on the workforce development front is the launch of the Washington Home Builders Foundation (WHBF) new Construction Trades Training Academy in early 2025.

Located in downtown Tacoma, the academy emphasizes job placement, mentorship, and ongoing support for students and industry partners. It ensures that graduates receive the necessary training to be fully prepared to succeed in the field.

To learn how you can support the WHBF and the academy, visit biaw.com/wahomebuilders-foundation/donate.

Passing I-2066 to protect WA’s energy choice

Last but certainly not least, one of BIAW’s biggest accomplishments in recent years is undoubtedly the qualifying and passing of Initiative 2066.

More than 540,000 individual voters and 400+ businesses came together to bring I-2066 to the ballot in just seven weeks. That represents the second-highest number of signatures for a state initiative and the most gathered in over 50 years.

The way our members, industry and union partners and our tens of thousands of grassroots supporters came together to protect the rights of our state’s families and businesses is truly inspiring.

As we reflect on this remarkable year, I look forward to building on these significant successes and continuing to shape a brighter future for our industry and communities.

member of the C-Tran Board of Directors. He also serves on the Vancouver School District Management Advisory Task Force, Clark County Mural Society and Downtown Rotary Club.

He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from WSU Pullman and received his Master of Business Administration from Marylhurst University. Hansen was born and raised in Vancouver and graduated from Hudson’s Bay High School.

BIAW’s Member Resource Manager Raelle Vitali, will be moving into a new role managing development for the Washington Home Builders Foundation.

Need to renew your CESCL certification?

Designed for residential builders, BIAW’s CESCL recertification class will answer builder questions, including what Best Management Practices (BMPs) perform best on construction sites, how to keep BMPs working, what red flags signal erosion problems, and how to effectively work with local and state inspectors.

Learn how to control costs

Prevent erosion

Protect water quality

Comply with permit requirements

Develop a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP)

Install & maintain Best Management Practices (BMPs)

Find upcoming class dates at biaw.com

David LaRiviere

Special Projects Manager

David LaRiviere joined BIAW as Special Project Manager on Nov. 7. David served as senior vice president for Conover Insurance where he worked for 34 for years before he retired. An expert in loss control and insurance consulting, David will work halftime for BIAW to develop a line of liability insurance for members as a non-dues revenue source. YOUR HASSLE-FREE SOLUTION TO RISK MANAGEMENT

- Minimize liability and reduce financial risk.

- Attract more buyers and boost the home’s value.

- Wide range of warranty options and terms.

- Our free mediation process resolves about 95% of claims.

John Felbaum / 800.247.1812 x2633 / sales@rwcwarranty.com www.rwcwarranty.com

Written Insured Warranties for New Home Construction

This class meets the requirements of the Washington State Department of Ecology.

Associate Star Award winners Kathy Sanchez of Northwestern Mutual and Andrew Northrop of Spokane Hardware Supply

by Hannah Cassara Content Specialist

Associate members are our industry’s suppliers, service providers and product manufacturers, and the homebuilding industry couldn’t do what we do every day without them. These dedicated professionals account for 66% of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) membership, proving just how essential their efforts are in bringing homes to life.

To celebrate their invaluable impact, BIAW’s Associate Advisory Council presents associate members nominated by their local homebuilding association with the annual Associate STAR Awards. In this issue, we highlight two exceptional individuals who have been honored with this award: Kathy Sanchez of the Skagit/Island Counties Builders Association (SICBA) and Andrew Northrop of the Spokane Home Builders Association (SHBA).

KATHY SANCHEZ, NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL SICBA

A financial advisor with Northwestern Mutual, Kathy Sanchez has been an integral part of SICBA since joining in 2017. Her dedication to community service is unparalleled—she actively participates in local networking groups and supports numerous charitable events, often offering her financial expertise to those in need.

As a member of SICBA’s Membership Committee, Sanchez has helped attract and retain quality members, earning 11 Spike credits. She has also served in various leadership roles at SICBA, including her current position as Second Vice President. Sanchez helps with the SICBA Home and Garden Show each year and happily steps in to help whenever she is needed without being asked. At Northwestern Mutual, Sanchez focuses on building and protecting her clients’ futures. Whether looking to save for the retirement of your dreams or for your kids’ college, she creates specialized plans unique to each client. Learn more about www.northwesternmutual.com

ANDREW NORTHROP, SPOKANE HARDWARE SUPPLY, SHBA

President of Spokane Hardware Supply, Andrew Northrop’s commitment to strengthening the association’s influence at both the local and state levels has made a big impact.

In his role as chair of the SHBA Communications Committee, he has been instrumental in modernizing the association’s database and streamlining member communications.

In October, the BIAW Executive Committee appointed Northrop as BIAW Secretary for the remainder of 2024, filling a board vacancy. He was also nominated to serve a

Northrop has shown remarkable dedication to community service through his ongoing support of the local Habitat for Humanity chapter. He and his team not only volunteer their time on jobsites but also donate essential hardware for construction

As a donor to SHBA’s PAC and a member of NAHB’s Capitol Club, Northrop champions initiatives that benefit the industry. He also works hard to recruit new members and provides valuable leads to SHBA’s membership director.

To learn more about Spokane Hardware Supply, visit www.spokane-hardware.com

In Memory

Save Construction & Management, LLC

Building Industry Association of Clark County (Past President) Curtis & Wood Construction

Home Builders Association of Tri-Cities (38 Years)

Jefferson County Home Builders

Skagit/Island Counties Builders

Marvin Cole Lower Columbia Contractors Association

Meet the 2025 BIAW Senior Officer Team

The 2025 BIAW Senior Officers bring a great mix of builder and associate leadership from across the state to our association.

Our new president, Kent Arola, has long been active in legislative and advocacy work, winning multiple awards at the

of Pierce County

Kent Arola has owned his residential construction company, Wind River Homes, for 20 years. He has served as a BIAW director for 14 years, participating on the Washington Affordable Housing Council since 2012, as a member of the Legislative Policy Committee (LPC) since 2016, and as LPC chair in 2020. Arola has served in several leadership positions at his local, Master Builders Association of Pierce County (MBAPC), state and national levels. He has earned numerous awards and accolades including BIAW Builder of the Year in 2023, multiple MBAPC REX Awards, BIAW Excellence in Remodeling Awards, MBAPC Member of the Year in 2015 and Recruiter of the Year four times. He is a Statesman Spike with over 570 spike credits.

state and at his local association, Master Builders Association of Pierce County (MBAPC). His top priorities for 2025 include membership recruitment and retention, supporting and expanding our Professional Women in Building councils and legislative advocacy.

Building Industry Association of Clark County

Aaron Marvin of A.C.T. Builders, LLC, is a family-focused community leader with 30+ years in construction. He and his wife, April, have been married for nearly 19 years and have three children: Carson, Kamble and Tiko.

Aaron coaches youth soccer and heads “Food+Water+Shelter,” a nonprofit providing food, education, housing, and sustainability to Malawi, Africa. Actively involved in the Building Industry Association of Clark County, he co-founded A.C.T. Builders, LLC, with his dad in 2004 and was BIAW’s first Certified Builder. Marvin earned a bachelor’s degree in business and social science with a minor in economics from Warner Pacific College in 2004 and played collegiate soccer from 2000-2004. In his free time, he enjoys mountain biking, soccer and family time.

Andrew Northrop, CEO of Spokane Hardware Supply, Inc., has over 20 years of leadership in the building materials industry, driving growth and operational success. Actively involved in industry associations, he serves on the Spokane Home Builders Association Executive Committee and chairs the Communications Committee, enhancing engagement and outreach. He’s also a member of BIAW’s Legislative Policy Committee, focusing on advocacy, and serves on the board of the North American Building Material Distribution Association. A fourth-generation industry leader, Northrop is dedicated to community service, with past roles supporting the YMCA and Bite2Go, reflecting his commitment to impactful leadership.

the insurance industry in 2013 as an operations manager for Aetna Insurance. In 2015 he attained his property casualty license and was hired at Blasingame Insurance. He is a strong supporter of his local association, the Spokane Home Builders Association, where he helped launch the Young Professionals Council. Serving on the local and state boards has given him great insight and knowledge of the construction industry. Gilliland is a Spokane native growing up in Spokane Valley and a graduate of Central Valley High School in 2006. An avid sports fan, he enjoys spending time with his wife Jessica, and two children, Corbin and Kaycee. Gilliland was honored to be named BIAW Associate of the Year in 2022 and NAHB Young Professional of the Year in 2023.

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT JAY ROBERTS

Central Washington Home Builders Association

Jay Roberts, BIAW Certified Builder and vice president of Cascade Custom Homes and Design, Inc. is a proud grandfather, father of three wonderful ladies, husband to an amazing wife and son of the best parents. Past president of Skagit/Island Counties Builders Association (SICBA) and a Central Washington Home Builders Association board member, Roberts chaired the Legislative Policy Committee in 2023 and enthusiastically supports workforce development. He won the BIAW Builder of the Year Award in 2024. A University of Washington Husky active in his community, Roberts serves on the Public Stadium Authority Board for Lumen Field and Event Center.

THIRD VICE PRESIDENT MATT WILLARD

Central Washington Home Builders Association

Matt and Tristen Willard own Town & Country Homes in Kittitas County. A BIAW Certified Builder, Willard was president of the Central Washington Homebuilders Association (CWHBA) in 2008 and 2009 and received CWHBA Builder of the Year honors in 2006 and 2010. He has served on most BIAW committees including the Washington Affordable Housing Council and the Legislative Policy Committee, which he chaired in 2019. Since 2020, he’s served on the Members Services Corporation (MSC) board, stepping up to serve as MSC President in 2024.

Honoring the 2024 Builder, Associate and Remodeler of the Year

Award winners during its annual Installation and Awards Gala on Nov. 12 in Vancouver. Nominees received votes from past winners in their respective categories based on their contributions to the home building industry, BIAW and their local association.

BUILDER OF THE YEAR

Jay Roberts, Certified Builder Central Washington Home Builders Association, Cascade Custom Homes and Design, Inc.

2024 BIAW President Jay Roberts and vice president of Cascade Custom Homes and Design, Inc. is driven by his passion for the industry. Past president of Skagit/Island Counties Builders Association (SICBA) and a Central Washington Home Builders Association board member, Roberts chaired the Legislative Policy Committee in 2023. He is a Certified Builder and a Certified Green Builder and is deeply invested in fostering the next generation of builders. Roberts champions workforce development initiatives within Washington state and collaborates with the Chelan School District to cultivate a skilled workforce for the future. He is an integral part of his community, actively participating in local initiatives and events with the support of his wife and three daughters.

Nicole Ahola

Central Washington Home Builders Association, Ahola Benefits Consultants

As a health insurance broker for Ahola Benefit Consultants, LLC, Nicole Ahola has been active with multiple local homebuilders associations over the years. In recent years, she has served in several leadership positions and is currently vice president of the Central Washington Home Builders Association and on the board of the Kittitas County Chamber of Commerce. Ahola has also been involved with the BIAW Health Insurance Trust since 2007.

Ahola’s goal while building her company, Ahola Benefits Consultants, was to establish a place that would positively impact the community while helping businesses flourish and teams grow. Her team now serves over 175 clients and insures more than 3,000 lives. In her personal time, she loves to adventure with her husband Jordan, their children and her two grandchildren.

REMODELER OF THE YEAR

Bob Disney, Certified Builder

Kitsap Building Association

Disney & Associates

Bob Disney has been in the general contracting business since 1998. His company, Disney & Associates, is built on the foundation of providing the

highest level of quality to its clients. Now, over two decades later, Disney & Associates still maintains the principles it was founded on – honest business, unmatched quality and fair prices.

The 2023 president of the Kitsap Building Association (KBA), Disney has served on several BIAW committees including the Legislative Policy Committee, the Washington Affordable Housing Council and the BIAW Health Insurance Trust.

A workforce development champion, he helped found KBA’s annual Construction and Trades in Motion event. He’s also an active participant in KBA’s Builder Grant Program.

2024 Associate Advisory Council

STAR Associates Awards

Each year the Associate Advisory Council recognizes outstanding contributions by associate members in their community, as nominated by their local associations with STAR Associate Awards. Congratulations to this year’s winners!

Eric Golemo, SGA Engineering PLLC BIACC

Nicole Ahola, Ahola Benefit Consultants CWHBA

Kevin Coker, Coker Designs, LLC JCHBA

Jordan Thayer, Morgan Stanley MBAKS

Jake Able, Pacific Northwest Title Co KBA

Bob Kagy, Print NW OMB

Bonnie Buffington, CW Title

MBAPC

April Moore, Mountain Pacific Bank

SICBA

Summer Wiyrick, Banner Bank

SHBA

Jacob Mesner, The Truss Company

HBATC

Hall of Fame

The BIAW Hall of Fame recognizes outstanding individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to the association over the course of their careers. Celebrating lifetime achievements in the home building industry, induction into the Hall of Fame is a tremendous honor.

This year, BIAW will honor five members with induction into the Hall of Fame.

n 2021 President Tracy Doriot

n 2018 President Kevin Russell

n 2007 President Daimon Doyle

n 2010 President Matthew Clarkson

n 2009 President Kyle LaPierre

So each inductee has ample time for recognition, BIAW inducted Doriot and Russell at the Fall Installation and Awards Gala. We will induct Daimon Doyle at the 2025 Winter Board of Directors Meeting and then Clarkson and LaPierre at the 2025 Summer Board of Directors Meeting.

KEVIN RUSSELL

Kevin Russell Construction

BIAW Certified Builder

TRACY DORIOT

Doriot Construction

BIAW Certified Builder

A member of the Building Industry Association of Clark County (BIACC) since 1982, Tracy Doriot has shown exceptional dedication, leadership and industry expertise.

Over the years, Doriot has held numerous roles at BIACC, including PAC/ Membership Chair, state director since 2006, and BIACC President in 2009, 2010

and 2016. Recently, he helped establish Clark County’s Professional Women in Building Council then he stepped up again to help lead BIACC through a challenging transition.

Doriot’s influence spans beyond local roles. He’s currently serving as BIAW’s state representative to the National Association of Home Builders. He not only served as president of BIAW in 2021, he’s also achieved Life Director status with both BIACC and BIAW. A lifetime Spike, he’s recruited over 700 members.

A BIAW Certified Builder, Doriot’s commitment to housing affordability, workforce development, and free enterprise is evident through his work with the Cascadia Tech Construction Advisory Board, the Clark County Parks Foundation, Workforce Southwest Washington and Attorney General Rob McKenna’s Affordable Housing Council.

Among his many honors, Doriot has received BIACC’s Outstanding Leadership Award, BIAW’s 2009 Builder Appreciation Award, BIAW Builder of the Year in 2021, and the BIACC President’s Award three times.

Kevin Russell’s more than 21 years of dedication to the housing industry has been instrumental in shaping BIAW at local, state, and national levels. Since joining the North Peninsula Building Association (NPBA) in 2003, he swiftly advanced to leadership roles, serving as NPBA President in 2007, 2008, 2015, and 2016, and as a BIAW Builder Director since 2004.

In addition to serving as BIAW’s President in 2018, Russell has been a pivotal member of the Executive Committee, Legislative Policy Committee, Local Association Presidents Council and more. He served as an instrumental member of the team who sought changes in BIAW to provide a new path forward for our success.

His commitment to association growth has included significant leadership contributions, including forming and

serving on the committee that hired Executive Vice President Greg Lane in 2018.

Russell is proud to have started the Local Area Presidents Council with Matt Willard and Scott Yonkman. Working with Ted Clifton and Damon Doyle, he also helped launch Built Green of Washington in 2008 and the Certified Builder Program in 2016, setting statewide standards in sustainable and trusted building practices. As a Master Certified Green Professional and BIAW Certified Builder, he is deeply committed to housing affordability, sustainability and senior housing solutions.

Recognized with numerous awards, including BIAW Builder of the Year (2018), multiple Builder Appreciation Awards, and the Log Home Chairman’s Award, Russell’s impact on the industry is widely celebrated.

by Raelle Vitali Member Resources Manager

Each November, the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) designates Spike Appreciation Month to honor members who go above and beyond in recruiting and retaining fellow members. This dedicated effort is crucial to the growth of Home Builders Associations (HBAs) nationwide, making Spikes the true champions of our association’s expansion and success.

What is a Spike?

A Spike is a current member who actively recruits new members to join the association. Spikes earn points based on their recruitment efforts:

n 1 point for each new member they bring in

n 1 point on the first anniversary of the recruited member

n ½ point for each subsequent anniversary

n ½ point if the recruited member joins a council

Once a Spike accumulates six points, they become part of NAHB’s prestigious Spike Club—a network of top recruiters dedicated to growing their associations.

How do you get spike credits?

Members earn Spike credits through member recruitment. Spikes can earn double credits when they recruit during NAHB Spring and Fall Membership drives!

Your local association and BIAW also plan membership drives that coincide with NAHB’s drives to allow you to stack recruitment rewards.

Spike appreciation is more than a month!

Each year Spike recruiters are celebrated nationally and statewide through a variety of exclusive events and awards.

Eric Peterson and Bob Disney show off Spike Category Recognition award for Dee Coppola at the 2024 Derby Day Spike party in Skamania.

IBS Spike Closing Concert

The IBS Spike Closing Concert is a fan-favorite part of closing out the International Builders’ Show (IBS) year after year, giving attendees a last chance to connect with fellow industry pros while listening to live music. Qualified Spike Club members receive two free tickets to this event each spring! The 2025 Spike Closing Concert will be Feb. 27, 2025, at the Westgate in Las Vegas.

BIAW Winter Board Meetings

BIAW recognizes the Top Spike Recruiters and Spike Category Leaders from the year prior with trophies and gifts at BIAW’s Winter Board Meeting and in post-event articles. BIAW will honor 2024 Spikes on March 12, 2025, during the 2025 BIAW Winter Board Meeting at the Hotel Murano in Tacoma.

BIAW Summer Board Meeting Spike Party

Members who have six Spike credits or more and have recruited at least one member in the past year get two tickets to BIAW’s exclusive Spike Party that takes place each year at the BIAW Summer Board Meetings. Themes are set each year that encourage attendees to dress up and have fun celebrating themselves and their peers. The 2024 theme was Derby Day and 2025’s theme will be revealed soon! Make sure you get in the Spike Club to be invited to the 2025 Spike Party.

November Spike Appreciation Month

Spike Appreciation Month is our opportunity to celebrate the hard work and dedication of these members who strengthen the foundation of our organization by highlighting their efforts and spotlighting them in BIAW communications.

BIAW 2024 Top Spikes

Economic update: Inflation ticks up, but housing market remains stable

by Noah Blanton President, Oregon Direct Operations, WFG National Title Insurance Company

The presidential election is over, and a new administration is definitively elected and controls the executive and legislative branches of government. This marks a significant change in approach to both monetary and fiscal policy at a time when inflation reversed seven months of decline to rise last month.

In Washington state, population growth is moderating, while housing inventory and prices are stable.

INFLATION TICKS UP

After falling for seven consecutive months beginning in March, inflation reversed in October, increasing to an annualized rate of 2.6%. (Figure 1) The increase comes as the primary driver

for falling inflation (energy deflation) moderated, and electricity and medical services increased. Stuck at nearly 5%, shelter inflation continues to contribute significantly to an inflation rate north of the Fed’s desired 2%.

Shelter inflation, which makes up as much as 26% of the weighted average of the CPI, went sideways, staying just below 5% annualized.

It will be difficult to fully tame inflation until the shelter component falls significantly from its current rate. The paradox for shelter is that as interest rates fall, housing will appreciate.

Looking at the change in inflation between periods, 10 categories are at, or under, the 2% target, while six categories are above. Headline inflation is at 2.6%, and core inflation is at 3.3%. (Figure 2)

Figure 1

Figure 2

Gold, typically seen as an inflationary hedge, fell sharply following the presidential election, yet inflation is rising (or at least not going down).

Meanwhile, bitcoin soared to new heights, breaching the psychologically important 6-figure valuation per coin within days after the election. These two asset classes highlight the changing approach from the incoming administration and the market reaction.

As gold moderated and bitcoin surged, 30-year mortgage rates increased to the highest level since July after reaching their lowest point in 24 months. Expect a bumpy ride for interest rates as the new administration’s policies take shape.

POPULATION GROWTH MODERATES BUT REMAINS POSITIVE

As pandemic-centric migration fades, it is appropriate to view the current growth and migration patterns as falling within the “normal” cycle of population growth.

Population growth occurs for two primary reasons: economic opportunity and affordability. As housing markets across the country appreciated during the pandemic, affordability challenges equalized many markets, leaving economic opportunity and quality of life as migratory drivers.

Washington state passed 8 million residents in the 2023-24 year, even as the annual pace of growth slowed. (Figure 3)

The state is performing significantly better than other West Coast states struggling with population growth. California is experiencing negative growth, while Oregon has begun to prepare for zero growth scenarios in the coming years.

All 39 counties in the state had positive net migration in the 2023-24 year, even as some counties lost population due to natural changes. Thirteen counties

experienced positive net migration and natural growth (births minus deaths). Growth was strongest in Clark, King, Pierce, Snohomish, Spokane, and Thurston Counties, primarily driven by migration. Expect this trend to continue in 2025.

HOUSING INVENTORY IS STABLE

New inventory remains stable, with new listings still far from pre-pandemic levels. (Figure 4) As is typical, listing activity peaked in the spring and has declined since May.

Figure 4

Figure 3

Expect listings from existing housing stock to remain depressed until interest rates sustain in the 5% range. This is the long-term impact of artificially low pandemic interest rates.

Inventory has elevated from 2020/21 levels, which has helped moderate price appreciation that threatened to be difficult to control in a low-rate environment. (Figure 5)

Finally, pricing has stabilized, with the average residential property selling for 99.4% of the asking price in October. This is welcome in the housing market, as the median price in Washington remains in the mid-$600,000 range.

Contrast this with a median price of $427,000 and a sale to list of 99.5% in October of 2019. The central issue for the housing market remains affordability. (Figure 6)

THE DEBT IS UNSUSTAINABLE

No matter who won the presidential election, one of the challenges they would face is a ballooning federal debt.

Now over $35 trillion (and expanding by an extra trillion every 100 days), even the Federal Reserve openly acknowledges the unsustainable trajectory of U.S. debt. Deficit spending monetized by the Fed represents a historic expansion of the federal debt, largely not absorbed through market forces. (Figure 7)

As the Federal Reserve reduces its holding of U.S. Treasury Securities, the result is the inverse of Covid-era purchases—interest rates rise. (Figure 8)

CONSUMER

IS STRONG

Finally, the consumer has remained resilient, continuing to drive both economic growth and activity and continued stubbornness in inflation (think food away from home and leisure and hospitality spending).

And no wonder, when nearly 9 in 10 mortgage holders in the country have a fixed rate below 6%, and almost 60% are below 5%. (Figure 9)

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 5

This allows these consumers who have fixed their largest monthly expenditure to continue to spend money and hedge these households against inflation. Consumer sentiment is improving and is now well off the lows of 2022. The consumer has internalized the current rate of inflation and is increasingly satisfied that the economy is moving in the right direction. (Figure 10)

This is positive for the housing market and the economy in general heading into 2025.

As we close out 2024, the housing market is stable:

n Inventory is elevated but below prepandemic levels.

n Sale to list price remains at or near 100% in most markets in the state.

n Washington is performing the best of West Coast states with population growth.

n Housing velocity is no longer declining. We appear to have hit “the bottom” of demand.

n We will begin 2025 with 30-year mortgage rates at roughly the same level as January 2024.

The Fed appears committed to at least two more rate cuts through 1Q25, and an entirely different approach to fiscal policy is taking shape in the new presidential administration.

With interest rates and regulation the primary barriers to transaction velocity, all eyes will be on the new administration’s policies in the first quarter of 2025.

The Building Industry Association of Washington has teamed up with WFG National Title Insurance Company’s Noah Blanton to offer quarterly economic forecasts to assist members in making decisions for their businesses. Contact him for more information at (503) 431-8506 or nblanton@wfgtitle.com

Figure 8

Figure 10

Figure 9

challenging the City of Berkeley’s natural gas ban before a full panel of the Court giving the legal fight against a natural gas ban in Washington new momentum.

BIAW kicked off the 2024 legislative session battling the two-headed housing monster of hidden costs and constrained supply so we can build more homes Washington families can afford.

The State Building Code Council (SBCC) elected Olympia Master Builders member and BIAW past president Daimon Doyle as chair.

2024 IN REVIEW

FEBRUARY

OMB members Christina Janis and John Erwin joined Senate Minority Leader John Braun, R-Centralia, and others in urging legislators to reject a new property tax increase. By Feb. 9, sponsors declared the idea dead for the session.

At the 2024 International Builders Show (IBS), BIAW Imm. Past Second Vice President Luellen Smith became the chair of the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Professional Women in Building Council, Spokane’s Nick Gilliland won the NAHB Young Professional of the Year Award and BIAW Executive Vice President

building and energy codes went into effect on March 15, effectively banning natural gas in new construction.

The 2024 legislative session ended with mixed results for housing costs in Washington. BIAW passed a handful of priority bills, including bills easing regulations on condominium development, improving timelines for safety violation citations, reforming the WUI code and streamlining SBCC procedures.

APRIL

A statewide coalition kicked off efforts to qualify I-2066: Protect Energy Choice for the November ballot to prohibit natural gas bans in Washington. The group needed more than 400,000 signatures from Washington voters by July 5 to qualify for the November ballot.

BIAW’s Member Services Corporation invested $50,000 in five Main Street Washington organizations to help revitalize their downtown districts.

MAY

The coalition of trade associations, union representatives, businesses and homeowners behind a state lawsuit challenging building codes in Thurston County Superior Court filed new court filings asking the court to invalidate provisions of the state’s new building codes.

BIAW hosted its 2024 Winter Board Meeting Jan. 29-31 at the Hotel Murano in Tacoma. More than 150 people boarded three buses from Tacoma to Olympia to meet with legislators on Jan. 30 for our Legislative Action Day and Hammers & Highballs Legislative Reception.

challenging Washington’s building codes filed a motion to suspend, or stay, the new energy code until a Thurston County Superior Court judge could rule on the merits of the underlying case.

MARCH

Despite widespread objections, the House of Representatives approved HB 1589 at 2 am on March 6 clearing the path for Puget Sound Energy (PSE) to force its 800,000 natural gas customers to convert their homes to all-electric and raise energy rates for all in the process.

A Thurston County Superior Court judge denied a motion to stay implementation of the state’s costly new building codes and the new

ROII announced another recordbreaking year distributing $26 million to participating companies. The 2020 plan year concluded with an outstanding final adjustment refund of 47%, marking ROII’s highest final adjustment refund ever!

NAHB recognized BIAW with a 2023 Grand Award for membership retention. BIAW earned the highest membership retention rate in its group

for 2023, 83.3%, compared to the group average of 77.1%.

BIAW members across Washington joined hundreds of their peers June 10-14 for the NAHB Spring Meeting and Leadership Conference in Washington, DC.

During BIAW’s 2024 Summer Board Meeting at Skamania Lodge, the group cheered record ROII returns, announced the inaugural class of the BIAW Legislative Champions League, celebrated top recruiters with the annual Spike Party and recognized the winners of the 2024 Excellence in

The 2024 Bracket Battle Membership Drive ended, bringing in 444 new members across Washington’s 14 local associations. Of those members, 24 qualified for ROII and the BIAW Health Insurance Program.

JULY

BIAW, Let’s Go Washington and the Washington Hospitality Association (WHA), submitted the final round of petitions supporting I-2066, bringing the total to 546,000+ signatures collected in 50 days–the secondhighest for a state initiative and the most gathered in over 50 years.

For the 2024-2025 school year, BIAW proudly awarded a total of $58,250 in scholarships and grants to 25 students and eight construction trades programs across Washington.

The Secretary of State’s Office officially certified I-2066 for the November general election ballot on July 24.

AUGUST

The Washington State Supreme Court rejected attempts by gas ban supporters to invalidate I-2066. The group sought to require the Secretary of State to not only verify petition signatures but also require address verification. The court unanimously rejected their demands and dismissed the case.

SEPTEMBER

The Washington Home Builders Foundation (WHBF) announced its plans to launch its new Construction Trades Training Academy in early 2025.

NAHB’s 2024 Chair, Carl Harris, traveled to the Olympic Peninsula for a joint meeting of the Jefferson County Home Builders Association and the North Peninsula Building Association.

OCTOBER

BIAW Hall of Fame member Ted Clifton of Clifton View Homes and his son Ted W. Clifton of TC Legend Homes both won 2024 Housing Innovation Awards from the US Department of Energy (DOE).

The BIAW Executive Committee appointed Andrew Northrop of the Spokane Home Builders Association as Secretary for the remainder of 2024 filling the vacancy created by 2024 Secretary Cameron Cartak’s resignation.

NOVEMBER

North Peninsula’s Kevin Russell and Clark County’s Tracy Doriot were inducted into the BIAW Hall of Fame at the 2024 BIAW Fall Board Meeting held Nov. 11-13 in Vancouver.

BIAW President Jay Roberts won the 2024 Builder of the Year Award, BIAW 2nd Vice President Nicole Ahola was

With a total of six local Professional Women in Building councils across the state, the BIAW Board of Directors voted to establish a state Professional Women in Building Council.

DECEMBER

BIAW celebrated the election results for Initiative 2066, declaring victory for the ballot measure. With nearly 2 million votes in favor, I-2066 was the

Secretary of State Steve Hobbs officially certified the election on Dec. 4 and Initiative 2066 officially became

BIAW filed a lawsuit on Dec. 6 asking the court to direct the State Building Code Council to modify the state energy codes to comply with the new law approved through I-2066.

BIAW celebrates I-2066 victory, prepares for new leadership and elected officials in Washington

by Jan Himebaugh Vice President - External Affairs

The biggest and best election news for Washington homebuilders is the passage of Initiative 2066, protecting energy choice and natural gas as an energy source.

Nearly 2 million voters say yes to I-2066

I-2066 repeals the various gas bans state and local governments have implemented either through legislation, building codes or local ordinances and actively protects fuel choice in home heating and cooking.

This BIAW-sponsored initiative is a major victory for the industry and our association. I-2066 became law on Dec. 5, 2024, and while BIAW is still encouraging state and local governments to comply with all the elements of I-2066, homebuilders should be proud of this effort.

BIAW members should take a victory lap and know that their association works for the industry in unprecedented ways.

Pro-housing gains at the federal level

The federal elections resulted in a trifecta of red in our nation’s capital, likely meaning better results for prohousing issues. The National Association

of Home Builders (NAHB) endorsed 88 candidates for the US Senate and US House of Representatives with a 94% success rate with four races too close to call.

They’ll continue to advance their 10-point housing plan to address the root causes of the housing shortage, including excessive regulations, ineffective zoning requirements and permit delays.

More difficult results in Washington state

In Washington, Democrats swept all the state executive races and even picked up seats in both the House and the Senate.

In the open House race for the 26th legislative district, which includes Gig Harbor and other parts of Pierce County, as well as a significant chunk of Kitsap County, Democrat Adison Richards beat perennial Republican candidate and former State Rep. Jesse Young.

Farther south, in the open Senate race in the 18th legislative district in Clark County, Democrat Adrian Cortes beat Republican Brad Benton, the son of Sen. Don Benton, who served in the Washington State Senate from 1996 through 2017.

14th legislative district in the Yakima

area, longtime Republican State Sen. Curtis King beat back a well-heeled campaign to turn a portion of Central Washington blue. Two Republican women, Gloria Mendoza and Deb Manjarrez, won the open House seats in that district.

More opportunities on the horizon

Of note, 2025 will have at least two special elections. One for the spot being vacated by Insurance Commissioner-

elect Patty Kuderer, a current Democrat state senator from the greater Kirkland area. For the 2025 session, that vacant spot will be appointed. Current Democratic State Rep. Amy Walen has already announced she will be running for that open seat at the next election. This race could get interesting as it is likely to pit a progressive left Democrat against Walen, a legislator known for her practical generally business-friendly work.

(l-r) Ashli Penner, BIAW VP - General Counsel, Janelle Guthrie, BIAW VP - Communications, Greg Lane, BIAW Executive Vice President, Gary Wray, BIAW Imm. Past President, Jan Himebaugh, BIAW VP - External Affairs, Kent Arola, BIAW 2025 President and (center front) Andrea Smiley, BIAW Legislative Director, strike a celebratory pose at the Let’s Go Washington election party on Nov. 5, 2024.

The other 2025 special election will be in the 26th legislative district. Since 26th District Democratic state Sen. Emily Randall won her election to Congress, that vacancy will be filled by appointment. Then there will be a special election in 2025. The 26th legislative district is considered a swing district, so this race could be expensive depending on the candidates. State Rep. Michelle Caldier, who has historically over-performed other Republicans in this district, recently announced her candidacy. If Republican Jesse Young, with his political baggage and multiple election losses, chooses to run yet again, it will likely help Democrats maintain this seat.

Challenges ahead

With significant progressive majorities in both chambers and a new Democratic governor, small businesses and builders should brace themselves for a bumpy session. Already, legislative leaders are discussing budget shortfalls and considering new or increased taxes. They’ve also signaled support for rent control and other issues we oppose.

Be sure to stay informed and engaged during this session. We will need strong support to protect our industry and promote our ability to continue to build the American Dream.

We hold a call each Tuesday morning during session to keep you in the loop. To sign up for these calls, visit: https:// mailchi.mp/biaw/biaw-legislativebriefing

You can also receive calls to action by signing up for our text alerts by texting “BIAW” to 50457. Keep an eye out during the session for more ways to help and be involved.

Looking ahead to session

Vice President - Communications

The 2025 Legislative Session kicks off on Jan. 13, and with it comes more than a dozen new legislators and a predicted $10 to $12 billion budget shortfall over

That means BIAW will likely be playing a lot of defense this session.

At that same time, Washington’s housing crisis still remains a top priority for most legislators, which gives us a great opportunity to move some of our legislative priorities forward.

Priority legislation for 2025

Earlier this year, our Legislative Policy Committee met to discuss legislative priorities.

First and foremost, we will oppose new or increased taxes of fees. Despite predicted budget shortfalls, Washington is expected to generate more revenue than the previous budget. The problem isn’t a revenue problem, it’s a spending problem.

Then we narrowed our focus to five more main goals:

Subdivision modernization – We want to add minor plat requirements, remove public hearing requirements for subdivisions, consolidate permit process procedures, allow concurrent review of preliminary plat and civil construction project plans, and revise outdated sections of the law.

Impact fees – We want to require jurisdictions to publish the fees they assess online, advertise deferral options, and place limits on adoption of increases to promote predictability.

Eliminate lot size, lot coverage and maximum floor area ratio requirements – It’s time to increase density and encourage diversity of housing types.

Simplify the energy code—We want the Legislature to direct the State Building Code Council (SBCC) to adopt the model energy code of 2024. This would preserve state access to Inflation Reduction Act funding through 2029, reduce the complexity of code compliance, and minimize SBCC’s workload.

Change the makeup of State Building Code Council – It’s time to restore the balance between government and the private sector.

We

need your help!

Our team works hard on your behalf throughout this session, but we need the help of our members. Legislators like to hear from real people who are impacted by their choices in real life. This is where you come in.

We hold a call each Tuesday morning during session to keep you in the loop. You’ll receive updates on our priorities, opportunities to testify before the Legislature and other ways you can help by engaging with your elected officials. To sign up for these calls, visit: https:// mailchi.mp/biaw/biaw-legislativebriefing

You can also receive calls to action by

Join the Legislative Champions League

Ready to take your advocacy to the next level as a member of the Legislative Champions League? It takes commitment, consistency and courage—but that’s what BIAW is all about!

You can earn points through various advocacy activities aligned with BIAW’s legislative goals:

n 1 point for every time you sign in for a bill

n 2 points for each weekly legislative update call attended

n 3 points for every email sent to legislators from BIAW’s call to actions

n 4 points for being a resource for staff or legislators on policy issues

n 5 points for testifying virtually in committee hearings

n 7 points for testifying in person in committee hearings

n 10 points for active participation in special events (slaying dragons, participating in press conferences, speaking to legislators, attending special dinners, battling lions)

Save the date

Save the date for BIAW’s Hill Day followed by the Hammers & Highballs Reception.

Mark your calendars for BIAW’s Hill Day and Hammers & Highballs Legislative Reception on March 11 during the 2025 BIAW Winter Board Meeting. Participation is FREE, but you must register to attend! Watch for more details in January.

16TH ANNUAL ROANOKE CONFERENCE

JAN. 24-26, 2025

Ocean Shores

Join BIAW and others for a weekend of open dialogue on public policy and political issues, and no-barriers networking among elected officials, prominent political thinkers, trade associations, think tanks and grassroots activists.

Supporting communities where we live and build: Builders invest in Main Street Washington

by Janelle Guthrie Vice President - Communications

Earlier this year, BIAW’s Member Services Corporation (MSC) approved an investment of $50,000 in five Main Street Washington organizations to help revitalize their downtown districts. Part of the Main Street America program, Main Street Washington started in 1984 and now serves 39 Main Street organizations across Washington.

Main Street Community through the Main Street Washington program, Colville Together focuses on enhancing the physical environment of downtown, including its buildings, streets, sidewalks and trees. The program is part of Washington’s Trust for Historic Preservation.

As a local custom home builder, I’m particularly proud of your work to create a beautiful downtown district, bustling with small businesses and robust activities for everyone to enjoy.

MSC directors reviewed the list of organizations across Washington and selected five communities where BIAW members live, work and build.

Colville Together

Located in the area served by the Spokane Home Builders Association (SHBA), Colville Together focuses on preserving and planning for downtown Colville.

SHBA Public Affairs and Strategic Officer

Isaiah Paine presented the contribution to Colville Together during its 4th Friday Celebration on Friday, Sept. 27.

“As part of the Washington Main Street program, Colville Together works to preserve and promote downtown Colville,” Paine said. “BIAW and the Spokane Home Builders Association support this mission by working to build homes people can afford across our region. Together we build communities.”

Established in 2017, Colville Together works to preserve and revitalize downtown Colville. As a designated

“Every contribution, big or small, makes a significant impact not just for Colville Together, but for the entire Colville community,” said Rosemary Shaw, Executive Director for Colville Together. “These funds go directly toward our projects and programs that enhance downtown Colville.”

Puyallup Main Street Association

Serving Puyallup since 1989 in Master Builders Association of Pierce County’s territory, the Puyallup Main Street

Association works to create a downtown business district people can feel proud of where “business owners and shoppers, or clients know each other on a firstname basis.”

Kent Arola, 2025 BIAW President, presented a ceremonial check to Puyallup Main Street Association Board President Rich Guzman at the group’s November board meeting to help bolster the city’s downtown business district.

“We’re proud of your work to create a downtown business district people can feel proud of,” Arola said. “Thank you for the opportunity to invest in our local communities.”

Arola has owned Wind River Homes in Pierce County for more than twenty years and has been active in Master Builders Pierce as a director for the last fifteen years.

The Puyallup Main Street Association hosts the annual Puyallup Holiday Market and Lighted Santa Parade among other popular events including SIP Puyallup in May, Meeker Days in June, Fusion Music Festival in July and Booallup in October.

Spokane Home Builders Association Public Affairs and Strategic Officer Isaiah Paine presented Colville Together with BIAW’s contribution during its 4th Friday Celebration.

Ridgefield Main Street

Served by the Building Industry Association of Clark County (BIACC), Ridgefield Main Street preserves the cultural heritage of downtown Ridgefield while advocating for its future through economic development, community events, public and private partnerships and more.

Long-time BIACC member, 2021 BIAW

President and recent BIAW Hall of Fame inductee, Tracy Doriot presented Ridgefield Main Street with a ceremonial check during its December Community Meeting and Annual Gratitude Breakfast. Graduate of Ridgefield High School, Dorito of Vancouver’s Doriot Construction, has been building awardwinning custom homes in Clark County for over 45 years.

“As a local custom home builder, I’m particularly proud of your work to create a beautiful downtown district, bustling with small businesses and robust activities for everyone to enjoy,” Doriot said. “I’m proud to present this check to my hometown.”

Partnership, served by the Home five Main Street organizations, MSC

For 10 years, Ridgefield Main Street has worked to diversify the downtown area, creating an escape in residents’ own backyard. They support their city and local businesses with events, work days and collaborative efforts throughout the year.

Ellensburg Downtown Association

Located in one of many communities served by the Central Washington Home Builders Association, the Ellensburg Downtown Association has been working since 2004 to attract more foot traffic to Main Street and support local businesses and the community.

The association is an award-winning Main Street program that believes implicitly in the value of each individual’s contribution, whether it be financial contributions, great ideas or hours spent volunteering.

They work to strengthen and enhance Ellensburg by filling empty storefronts and providing support to our new and established businesses. They strive to improve the aesthetic of Ellensburg’s Main Street, and draw in more foot

2025 BIAW President Kent Arola presented a ceremonial check to Puyallup Main Street Association Board President Rich Guzman at the group’s November board meeting.

Past BIAW President Tracy Doriot presented a check to Ridgefield Main Street during its December Community Meeting and Annual Gratitude Breakfast.

Initiative 2066 protecting natural gas

n Secretary of State Steve Hobbs officially certified the election on Dec. 4.

n Initiative 2066 became law on Dec. 5.

n The new law itself is very simple: It protects natural gas as an energy choice and prohibits natural gas bans, restrictions or disincentives in any form anywhere across the state.

However, some policymakers and code officials are trying to make things more complicated.

Builders demand energy codes comply with the new law

On Dec. 6 BIAW filed a lawsuit asking the court to direct the State Building Code Council (SBCC) to modify the state energy codes to comply with the new law approved through I-2066.

new law, and emergency rulemaking is appropriate.

BIAW also denounced a recent lawsuit to block I-2066. As the sponsor of the initiative, BIAW plans to support the Attorney General’s Office in defending this initiative by filing a motion to intervene.

“With harsh winters quickly approaching, it’s time to stop playing legal games and respect the will of the nearly 2 million people who voted to support I-2066,” said BIAW General Counsel Ashley Penner.

Previously, Penner wrote letters to the SBCC as well as local building officials and elected officials providing multiple options to comply with the law. She also sent letters to county prosecutors and

city attorneys, asking for their help in ensuring compliance.

“Millions of voters have spoken and Initiative 2066 is now law,” said BIAW Executive Vice President Greg Lane. “Above all else, the members of the State Building Code Council have a duty and obligation to follow state law.”

What’s next?

BIAW Legislative Director Andrea Smiley has also worked closely with code experts to develop several guidance documents for BIAW members when working with their local building officials. These documents can all be biaw.com/i-2066-is-law-whatsor by contacting Andrea Smiley at andreas@biaw.com.

As of today, local building departments should not be enforcing any penalties for permit applications that include natural gas service. Local officials are required to follow state law.

What should builders expect when filing permit applications?

As of Dec. 5, local building departments should not be enforcing any penalties for permit applications that include natural gas service.

Questions?

Please let us know which jurisdictions are still enforcing the 2021 Washington State Energy Code in violation of our new law.

If you have any questions or need help navigating compliance with the new law, please contact BIAW Legislative Director Andrea Smiley andreas@biaw.com

Panelists discuss Initiative 2066 and its impact on natural gas infrastructure, featuring House Majority Leader Joe Fitzgibbon (not pictured), Matt Miller of Puget Sound Energy, Ashli Penner of the BIAW and Sen. Drew MacEwen, at the Re-Wire Conference in Tacoma on Dec. 3, 2024.

Scan the code to get more info on the CTTA Employer Network or call (360) 780-3268

SUPPORT THE CONSTRUCTION TRADES TRAINING ACADEMY

The Construction Trades Training Academy is a free 8-week program oﬀering enrolled participants hands-on learning, classroom instruction, and real-world experience, with a focus on job placement, mentoring, and support.

Participants will learn:

Construction basics

(math, safety, materials and tools)

Carpentry fundamentals

OSHA standards

Employability skills and jobsite readiness

Support the academy by promoting our training programs to eligible participants or by joining our Employer Network!

Members of the Employer Network gain exclusive opportunities to engage with students through guest presentations, mock interviews, mini job fairs, and direct hiring access to program graduates. You can also support our operations by joining the donor collective or becoming a cohort sponsor.

[1& 2] To celebrate Careers in Construction Month, Master Builders

Pierce donated 10 copies of The House That She Built to local elementary and primary schools in Pierce County throughout the month of October. Master Builders Pierce’s Rae Fistonich and Bailee Butcher delivered copies to Discovery Primary School in Milton where they read the book aloud to a second-grade class.

[5] BIACC installed Alexa Lee of GRO as the association’s 2025 Board President on Nov. 26. Lee is the second female president in the history of the association. BIAW Executive Vice President Greg Lane installed the rest of BIACC’s 2025 officers.

[3] MBAKS hosted its annual Housing Solutions Breakfast in Bellevue on Oct. 17. The event drew 140 guests, including over 35 public officials, and highlighted the importance of successful middle housing implementation.

[4] Bob Disney of Disney & Associates, Inc. sent us this photo of one of his future trainees modeling an ROII hat with his pumpkin. ‘Hats off’ to Disney & Associates, Inc. for starting them young!

[6] The Building Industry Association of Clark County (BIACC) hosted An Evening of Excellence at Royal Oaks Country Club, presented by CFM Floors, with a social hour sponsored by GRO on Oct. 23. The evening spotlighted the 2024 Building Excellence Awards as well as the Columbia Credit Union Tour of Homes Awards and the GRO Parade of Homes Awards. In the 46th annual GRO Parade of Homes People’s Choice Awards, Cascade West won Best Architecture for their Eagle Crest project. The project also won Best Floor Plan, Best Landscaping, Best Outdoor Living Area, and Best of Show.

[7] NAHB hosted its 2024 Fall Leadership Orientation at the National Housing Center, NAHB’s headquarters in Washington, D.C. on Oct. 21-22. Attendees from Washington included Chris Anderson, SHBA Membership Director; Isaiah Paine, SHBA Public Affairs & Strategic Officer; Nova Nyitray, KBA Event Coordinator; Angelina Long, BIACC

and Snohomish Counties (MBKAS) once again partnered with Gelotte Hommas Drivdahl Architecture (GHDA) to produce a project titled “Vive La Paris” for the 30th Annual Gingerbread Village at Sheraton Grand Seattle on display through January 1, 2025. This year’s theme is “Iconic Destinations.”

Foundation (WHBF) received a $10,000 boost from Timberland Bank to support its new Construction Trades Training Academy. Timberland Bank initially provided a $2,000 grant from its local branch. The bank then submitted another request to its national office for the additional $10,000. Jonathan Fischer, President and Chief Operating Officer of Timberland Bank in Hoquiam, presented the check to the foundation’s Raelle Vitali on Nov. 19.

Significant updates to Washington’s Stay at Work Program in 2025

by Logan Gillihan ROII Claim Representative

Stay at Work is a return-to-work incentive program the Washington Department of Labor & Industries (L&I) offers to employers who accommodate an employee’s work restrictions by offering doctor-approved modified duty. Learn more at www.lni.wa.gov/claims/ for-employers/employer-incentives/ stay-at-work.

Washington state is implementing notable changes to its Stay at Work program, effective Jan. 1, 2025. These updates are designed to enhance injured workers’ support and encourage employer participation. Here’s an overview of the key changes:

New provisions for workers with a date of injury on or after Jan. 1, 2025

Extended wage reimbursement period: The maximum wage reimbursement period per claim will increase from 50% of 66 days to 50% of 120 days, offering extended financial support.

Increased wage reimbursement amount: The maximum wage reimbursement per claim will increase from $10,000 to $25,000, providing a greater limit of reimbursement for employers.

Increased training reimbursement amount: The maximum training reimbursement per claim will increase from $1,000 to $2,000. Training includes tools like Rosetta Stone, safety certification, and purchased technical skills training.

Enhanced clothing reimbursement: The maximum reimbursement for workrelated clothing will increase from $400 to $1,000 per claim.

Improved tool and equipment

coverage: The reimbursement for tools and equipment will increase from $2,500 to $5,000, supporting necessary workrelated items.

Revised continuous employment incentive (preferred worker benefits): The one-time incentive payment for continuous employment without wage reduction for 12+ months will now be a flat $25,000, regardless of the worker’s wages.

Work approval clarification (preferred worker benefits): It’s important to note that while work must be approved under the program, it doesn’t have to be medically approved by the injured worker’s provider. This aims to streamline the process for all parties involved.

Significance of these changes

These enhancements represent a significant commitment to supporting injured workers and facilitating their return to the workforce. The increased financial support and extended coverage periods aim to reduce the economic impact of workplace injuries on both employees and employers.

Utilizing

the new benefits

We encourage all eligible participants to take full advantage of these improved benefits. As an employee, these changes offer substantial additional support to aid in recovery and maintain employment. As an employer, you pay into these benefits through your premiums, so please use them to get some money back!

Preparing for 2025

As we approach Jan. 1, 2025, it’s

advisable for both employers and employees to familiarize themselves with these new provisions.

Understanding how these changes might affect workplace policies and individual situations will be beneficial for all parties involved.

Please note that these changes apply to workers with a date of injury on or after Jan. 1, 2025. If you have any questions about how these updates might affect you or your business, please get in touch with your ROII Claim Representative for more information.

Get help navigating claims with ROII

If you’re not a participant, you can find out how to get rewarded for safety by joining the state’s largest, longestoperating Retro (Retrospective Rating) safety incentive program: ROII.

ROII helps eliminate injuries through improvements in workplace safety and preventative strategies. If an employee suffers an injury, ROII helps companies help the employee get better quicker with a successful return-to-work experience.

To get started and find out if ROII is a good fit for your company, visit roii.com or contact us at (360) 352-7800 or enroll@roii.com.

get help navigating a workers’ comp claim with l&i.

Meet the ROII reward most folks hope they’ll never use—but sure are glad to know it’s there. Reward #3 is proof that you have a friend in the L&I world. Because ROII knows the ins and outs of navigating a claim with L&I. You’ll also save an average of 39% on workers’ comp, get tips for keeping your people—and business— safer, and there are no hidden fees or extra charges. No wonder ROII is Washington State’s largest workers’ comp safety program.

get started at roii.com

Construction site winter safety tips

by Bob White ROII Safety Services Director

Winter on a construction site comes with a whole host of hazards. From slips and trips to frozen fingers and damaged equipment, cold temperatures require specific countermeasures to ensure a safe and productive site during the winter months.

Keep worker exposure to freezing temperatures to a minimum

Workers who aren’t accustomed to freezing temperatures are particularly susceptible to cold stress, but everyone can suffer the effects of extreme cold.

Freezing temperatures cause skin and internal body temperatures to drop, causing frostbite, chilblains and even hypothermia. All of this can cause serious illnesses that can result in permanent tissue damage or, in more serious cases, death.

If work cannot be rescheduled, consider setting up warm areas for workers and making hot drinks accessible during breaks. You should also consider running shorter shifts to reduce exposure time and physical exertion.

Personal protection equipment in cold weather

Winter personal protection equipment (PPE) can be bulky and limit mobility. As a result, over protection may result in unnecessary hazards for workers. It’s important to balance protection against the cold and the hazards of the job task while still allowing mobility and dexterity to complete tasks. Choosing PPE that is insufficient for the task or the conditions can lead to a number of additional hazards, including:

n Blocked vision or loss of peripheral vision

n Layering around ears preventing hearing

n Eyewear fogging

n Snow glare

n Decreased dexterity

n Lack of mobility

n Inadequate traction for ground conditions

Selecting PPE that best suits the task and the conditions will ensure the risk of injury is mitigated to a level as low as possible without compromising productivity.

Gloves need to be heavy and durable, but they should have the right fabric and texture to allow you to remain dexterous. They should also be durable and waterproof in case of rain, melting snow and ice.

Waterproofing is as important for gloves as it is for boots. Insulated boots keep your feet warm and dry. If moisture gets in, several layers will keep your feet warm. They also need to be breathable so perspiration can get out.

Finally, footwear should provide adequate traction when working at winter construction sites to reduce the chance of slipping.

If you are an ROII participant and would like to receive regular safety updates or have ideas for safety topics, please contact Bob White at (360) 352-7800 ext. 109 or bobw@biaw.com.

Not an ROII member?

Learn more about ROII at roii.com.

Building Industry Association of Washington

300 Deschutes Way SW, Ste. 300 | Tumwater, WA 98501 (360) 352-7800 | BIAW.com |

Thank you for your support and dedication to the building industry throughout the year. May this season bring you joy, peace, and time to celebrate with those you hold dear.