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CONSTRUCTION NEWS The Industry’s Newspaper
www.constructionnews.net H (830) 500-0071 H Volume 24 H Number 1 H JANUARY 2024
Rosewood Property Company is Now Leasing the Second Phase of The Tobin Estate Apartments
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ocated at 3310 Oakwell Court in northeast Alamo Heights and spanning 11 acres, this property has added 311 apartment homes to the existing 289 luxury homes of phase one. This development offers mid-century modern architecture in the middle of a live oak oasis featuring a walking trail surrounding the entire community among its unique, appealing amenities. “Leasing the second phase of the Tobin Estate Apartments is an exciting step in providing the next great San Antonio living experience,” said Tim Harris, senior vice president for Rosewood Property Company. “From the apartment home plans to the finishes and the plethora of community amenities, we tried to uplift the human experience for our residents here at the Tobin Estate.” The two four-story buildings feature 304 apartment homes with one-, two-, and three-bedroom floorplans. An additional building with seven townhomes diversifies the development’s available living options, which are all nestled in a
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sanctuary of live oaks which have been carefully preserved creating one of San Antonio’s most unique apartment destinations. The Tobin Estate community area provides a relaxing pool with an elevated pool house including grills and a communal dining space. “The massive indoor/outdoor workout center will meet the expectations of any gym enthusiast, no matter their fitness level,” said Harris. “The Resident Lounge provides indoor and outdoor spaces to relax while soaking in the nature that makes The Tobin Estate one of a kind. There is not a property in San Antonio with this type of environment that offers residents so many luxury amenities.” The interiors feature two color schemes with quartz counters, custom lighting, wood plank flooring, stainless steel appliances, single-bowl farm sinks, tiled showers, and oversized tubs. The townhomes have attached garages. The average rent for the community is $1,950. The apartment homes and townhomes are now available for lease by
visiting www.thetobinestateapartments. com. The community is planned for completion in early 2024. The original home at Tobin Estate was designed and built in 1959 by long-time San Antonio arts patron Robert L.B. Tobin. The Tobin Endowment operates in the old estate, which was renovated in 2022. The estate still serves as a reminder of Mr. Tobin’s vision to create a distinctive and elegant community where people can live, work and play. LandDesign serves as the landscape design architect, B2 Architecture + Design
is the interior designer, and Westwood is the civil engineer. Oden Hughes Taylor Construction is the contractor and WDG Architecture is the architect. Texas Capital Bank provided the construction loan. Rosewood Property Company has a long history of multifamily ownership in South Central Texas including Ventura Ridge and Pecan Springs, two luxury multifamily developments near the intersection of I-10 and Loop 1604 in San Antonio, along with Astra Avery Ranch, a 339-unit multifamily community located in north Austin, Texas.
HOLT Truck Centers Opens New Facility in Wichita Falls, Texas
OLT Truck Centers®, an authorized International and Idealease dealer in Oklahoma, East Texas and now North Texas, announced the grand opening of a new facility in Wichita Falls, Texas. This growth comes after the organization expanded its International and Idealease dealerships into Oklahoma in 2021 and Tyler, Texas earlier this year. The new facility in Wichita Falls will bring HOLT Truck Centers to a total of 15 locations across Texas and Oklahoma. “As an International dealer, we look forward to bringing innovation grounded in a rich history to Wichita Falls,” said Brandon Acosta, vice president of HOLT Truck Centers. “We understand the work our truck customers do every day and their need to have top-quality products, solutions and support to move our community forward. This expansion
Photo courtesy of Holt Truck Centers helps ensure we can meet their needs where they are.” HOLT Truck Centers provides fullservice, rebuilds, and parts for all makes and models of on-highway trucks. HOLT
Truck Centers sells new on-highway trucks, trailers, and busses as well as used on-highway trucks and trailers. Operations Manager, Derek Girouard, a long-time Wichita Falls resident, will
oversee the new location with the assistance of Acosta and his team of technicians and parts specialists and customer service representatives. “As a retiree of the United States Air Force, I was looking to join an organization with a solid foundation and a strong set of values. I have found that with Holt Truck Centers,” said Girouard. “I’m looking forward to being an integral part of the community by providing legendary service to truck drivers and help ensure their safety on the roads.” The new location will have approximately 12 employees with six service bays across 12,000 square feet. HOLT Truck Centers is an authorized dealer of IC Bus, Isuzu commercial trucks, Ottawa, Hi-Vac and Crane Carrier specialty vehicles. The new facility is located at 1811 Central East Freeway, Wichita Falls.
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Austin Construction News • JAN 2024
JLUSA to restore the Alteza Residences in San Antonio
econstruction Experts (RE) of Johns Lyng Group USA (JLUSA), a full-service General Contractor providing repairs to occupied properties, is currently working to restore building defects to the Alteza Residences in San Antonio, Texas. The Alteza Residences are one of the top and most
luxurious high-rises above the Grand Hyatt on the San Antonio River Walk. Reconstruction Experts (RE) of Johns Lyng Group USA, are working diligently to fix the building’s current roof and balcony defects, including a failing pool deck, which are shared by both hotel guests and Alteza residents.
RE strategically mapped out a plan so the residents could safely reside during construction. The team will replace the waterproofing and paver systems on the pool deck, build a new spa and spa amenities, re-coat the falling balconies, and replace the penthouse roof. The project was completed December ’23.
The Big 8-0 Never Looked So Good! Happy Birthday to Alamo Crane Service’s fearless leader, Marvin Ohlenbusch. It was an incredible night celebrating filled with friends, family, and fun!
Photos courtesy of Mary K. Haskin photography, Courtney Ohlenbusch Wooldridge & Casidy Ann Ohlenbusch
Advertisers Directory Alamo Crane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Alterman Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Axis Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Cokinos Young . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 EPI Enclosures & Engineering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Holt Cat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 JR Ramon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 KCS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Lynwood Building Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Pipeline Intelligence/Wind & Solar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Schweiss Doors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 The Nitsche Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 TNT Crane & Rigging . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Austin Construction News • JAN 2024
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Alpha Building Corporation Presents Omega GC
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n the late 1980’s, Neil Armstrong proclaimed: “That’s one small step for a man, one giant leap for mankind,” as he stepped on the moon for the first time. The same year, Gordon Kovich founded Alpha Building Corporation (Alpha) and began a 17-year partnership with NASA’s Johnson Space Center to support the construction needs of the space programs. From the Apollo through the Space Shuttle, for almost 20 years, Alpha worked in multiple buildings of the 1620-acre complex, including constructing ground-up Building #2, an astronaut training facility now NASA’s Space Museum. In the 1980s, Alpha was awarded several long-term contracts with United States military bases in San Antonio and moved corporate offices from Houston to San Antonio. For the next forty years, Kathleen Acock, Gordon’s daughter, successfully led the business, focusing on public facility construction for universities, public education, municipalities, and government entities until her retirement in 2022. Today, Jonathan Rogero, grandson of Gordon Kovich and son of Kathleen Acock, is the President/Chief Operations Officer, the third generation to lead Alpha Building Corporation. Jonathan became familiar with his family’s business and the construction industry as a child. In 1993, he became an Alpha employee as a general laborer.
By starting from the bottom up, Jonathan learned all aspects of the business. He worked in numerous field positions, from Carpenter, Foreman, Superintendent, and Estimator to Project Manager. While earning an Associate of Applied Science in Construction Project Management at St. Phillips College and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at Wayland Baptist University. He transitioned into corporate administrative and management positions, working in every company department. Rising through the company ranks gave him the wisdom and insight to lead his family’s company with the expertise and integrity it is known for. Alpha has prospered for 55 years, has completed over $1 billion in public facilities construction work, and will continue to thrive in the public sector, specializing in job order contracting. To honor Jonathan’s family legacy, he reconnected with the space industry through Alpha, where we’ve undertaken numerous successful projects and aim to continue this streak. Recognizing the remarkable growth in Texas, Jonathan envisioned diversification by venturing into the private sector while leveraging Alpha’s established success and reputation. This led to the formation of Omega GC, Alpha’s sister company. The distinction between the two lies in their market focuses – Alpha caters to the public sector, while Omega targets the private sector. Each company is dedicated to its market sector and provides tailored strategies to help clients achieve their goals. Omega specializes in construction management services for private sector clients, including commercial retail, hospitality, healthcare, and mixed-use developments. In a short time, Omega has surpassed expectations, with new commercial jobs awarded along the I-35 corridor to the Rio Grande Valley. Although Omega is in its infancy operations-wise, its personnel, experience, process, and protocols have been intact for several years. -ndw
Charged by Cheer Over 1,000 individuals from the construction industry, along with their families and friends, gathered at the highly anticipated Alterman Open House on December 6. The event featured a delightful buffet-style dinner, with BBQ, sides, and desserts. The evening was marked by networking opportunities and shared stories about Alterman’s history, current achievements, and future endeavors. In a display of generosity, attendees contributed an impressive 565 toys to the Construct A Kids foundation, supporting foster children under the care of the Bexar County Child Welfare Board.
Stocking Stuffers
Photos courtesy of Larson Pro Photography
‘Tis the season of giving! The Nitsche Group employees embraced the holiday spirit and dedicated themselves to making a meaningful impact this season through the Combined Community Action Stocking Program. Through this organization, employees were able to “adopt-a-child” for Christmas and fulfill their holiday wish list. Generosity and community spirit displayed through this program is what Christmas is all about.
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Austin Construction News • JAN 2024
American Constructors Presents $100k to Boys and Girls Club
merican Constructors was founded in 1982 by Bill Heine. Starting out with humble beginnings in Austin, they were building high rise office buildings when a 15 story building in Austin was considered a high rise. Bill was a very studied man who had the foresight to know that future Texas was going to be one of limitless growth opportunities. Current CEO, Marty Burger, who joined the company in 1983, recalled Bill talking about the future possibilities in Austin as early as the late 1980s. However, even with the visionary leaders they had and strong work ethic they possessed, there would be a time when their company would face some significant hardships, such as when the big real estate banking and lending crash hit in 1985. Marty says, “It was a hard time to make a living back then. I bet we would have swept your back porch if we had to.” Now, the company is entering its 41st year. They started out doing a lot of public and private work and were in all of the major construction booms in Texas, from the microchip manufacturing boom to the .com boom. They built office buildings, medical facilities and started building public schools in the 1980s. As the market on the private side has gone up and down throughout the years, the K-12 market has kept them going, and now they are one of the major K-12 builders in Central Texas, something Marty is very proud of, saying, “There’s nothing like the feeling you get when you see a school you built opening its doors for the first day of school. It gives you a sense of purpose like no other.” Their success has afforded them the ability to give back in a very substantial way to their community. They have been partnering with the Boys and Girls Club of Austin for
decades. Bill had fond memories of growing up in New Jersey and going to his local Boys and Girls Club, so he knew firsthand the incredible difference the organization made in the lives of children and families. For a lot of families with working parents, the B&G Clubs were safe spaces where their children could go after school for supervision, sports and fun activities. The mentorship and friendships children formed helped them thrive. Knowing the children were safe and supervised after school gave working parents a sense of relief. Studies show that children involved in the program have a 95 percent graduation rate, a staggering difference from the rates in some urban areas. In the late 1980s, they chose Boys and Girls club to be the main organization they would take under their wing. When they first began, their contribution was in the form of accounting help, as well as small financial donations. Throughout the years, they have raised funds in the form of golf tournaments and clay shoots. Since the beginning of American Constructors’ relationship with the BGCAA, the firm and their employees and partners have raised over $2.5 million for the BGCAA. This year, from a clay shooting tournament, featuring over 40 companies and 200 shooters, they raised and were thrilled to present a check to Boys and Girls Club Austin for $100,000. On Monday, Dec. 11, the check presentation ceremony was held at BGC Austin, and it was an exciting and fun event. The children got to have fun decorating gingerbread houses, and American Constructors made their latest contribution to the cause that is so very close to their hearts. Their relationship with the Boys and Girls Club will continue to make a difference in the lives of thousands of children every year. -ndw
American Constructors Foundation presents $100,000 to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Austin Area
The kids enjoyed the Ginger Bread House Event
Austin Austin CONSTRUCTION NEWS Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Haley Mathews Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Andi Mathews Production . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Kayla Wallace Advertising . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Haley Mathews Managing Editor: Andi@ConstructionNews.net Austin Area Counties Travis, Hays, Bastrop, Burnet, Blanco, Caldwell and Williamson counties Construction News Home Office P.O. Box 310207 • New Braunfels, TX 78131 830-500-0071 www.ConstructionNews.net
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Austin Construction News • JAN 2024
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as many of us know, the path to exams and with a head for numbers Industry FOLKS And finding the career that is right fit isn’t and a natural sales ability, he did that
Zac Patrick Owner
Broken Ground Equipment Auctions San Antonio, TX
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ac Patrick is the owner of Broken Ground Equipment Auctions. Born in Odessa Texas, he grew up in the 4H program and as a little boy, was fascinated by the auctions at the end of the stock shows. The atmosphere, the energy of the auctioneer commanding the stage and the rhythm of his chant planted a seed in him, and he thought, I want to do that! When he was 25 years old, he spent a week in Dallas learning all about how to be an auctioneer, everything from the art of bid calling to all the state and federal regulations an auctioneer must abide by. After completing his course, he went on to help as a rookie auctioneer at some small stock shows and realized that it is not as easy as some make it look. But Zac is a fast talker, full of positive energy and he loved it. However, back then, some auctioneers were concerned with the future of live auctions because of all that was becoming accessible online. Zac, with marriage and kids on the horizon, wanted to be a good provider for his family and thought he might have to go a different direction to be successful.
always linear. But with faith and hard work, and the ability to pick yourself up after you fall, you can make your aspirations reality. He’s a man who has worn many hats in his life. After graduating college he worked a food service job for a while and his mother, a retired teacher, suggested he try teaching as a career. So he got his teaching certificate and went on to teach math and algebra to junior high students for two years. But still, something inside him told him that it wasn’t what he wanted to do forever. Being someone who loves to cook, and having an entrepreneurial spirit, he started a catering company. Business was booming, and for a while he catered to crews on oil fields, which meant lots of early days and late nights, feeding breakfast at 7:00 AM to a crew of hungry workers required a lot of work starting at 4:00 AM for prepping, cooking, loading and delivering all the food. He worked all the way up until serving “lunch” to the night crew at 11:00 PM and these types of jobs could go on for a month at a time. It was hard work, but he enjoyed it. His wife and he were expecting their first child around the time the oil field business crashed in 2014, and his phone was no longer ringing with offers for jobs, and he was left wondering what to do next. Humbled but not defeated, Zac was offered a chance to work for Merrill Lynch as a financial advisor. He studied for his Series 66 and 7
for a while. Then, once again someone recognized these talents in him and as the oil field business was picking back up again, he was offered a job selling drill bits. But he’d had enough of living on the road. At the time, his family was living in Carlsbad, New Mexico and when he saw an ad for a new company called Equipment Share, he applied for the job. Although he had applied for a Sales position, he was hired as General Manager and got to work. He loved this work. He didn’t love living in New Mexico. So, when the opportunity arose for a transfer to San Antonio, (where his wife had always wanted to live) came about, he called her immediately. Without missing a beat, she said. “I’m going to go get packing supplies.” After buying a house and settling in San Antonio, he worked both as a manager and in sales for Equipment Share, and in of 2022, he left the company to start his own, Broken Ground Equipment Auctions, he saw a need to fill a gap between buyers and sellers of construction equipment, and that too often machines were left unused. And as it turns out, live auctions are not going anywhere. People love the excitement, the chance to see and touch what they are going to buy. His desire for Broken Ground is to serve the ranchers, farmers, contractors and subcontractors of South Texas by providing the place where they get to come together to buy and sell equipment. He now has a site in
Stockdale where he plans to hold 6 bi-monthly auctions a year, alternating between sales geared towards ranchers/ farmers, to construction, to oilfield, and trucks/ trailers. The first auction at that location is scheduled for April of next year. Zac and his wife Alexandra live in San Antonio, with their two daughters, Abigail and Alaska. They love traveling and going to the beach. Zac’s daughter Abigail loves clay shooting, like her dad, and photography, like her mom. And both girls love driving around town giggling while their dad practices calling bids to them using the street signs and telephone poles as bidders, going up incrementally as they drive down the road. To learn more about Broken Ground, please visit BrokenGroundauctions.com -ndw
Employee Owned since 1984
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Austin Construction News • JAN 2024
The Great Outdoors Ken Milam’s Fishing Line
Taylor’s fish
Max and fish
Since 1981, Ken Milam has been guiding fishing trips for striped bass on Lake Buchanan in the Texas Hill Country. You can hear Ken on the radio as follows: The Great Outdoors: 5-8 am Saturday on 1300, The Zone, Austin and The Great Outdoors: 5-7 am Saturday on 1200 WOAI San Antonio The Sunday Sportsman: 6-8 am Sunday on 1300, The Zone, Austin All on IHeart Radio Jumping into the New Year! The warm and fuzzy holidays are over and now we have to jump right into a whole new year that’s already got a running start on us! It reminds me of jumping into a cold river on a warm day! At first, it’s a shock, but once you start swimming it feels alright! Between the upcoming eclipse and the election, this year will be anything but dull! I hope your year is off to a great start while we work our way through winter. Of course, none of this means anything to the stripers and hybrids! All they know is the water is now nice and cold like they like it, and they are hungry! They know there are only a few weeks until spawning time and the excitement is building! With the exception of Lake Texoma, stripers and hybrids cannot successfully reproduce in Texas because we just don’t have good consistent river flow over many miles so their eggs can stay suspended. Just don’t tell them that. They are going to go through the motions and try anyway. Our baby stripers and hybrids may have to come from a hatchery, but some of our most exciting fishing will come from the fact that the pregame to spawning means they will need to school up and feed like crazy to be fat and healthy enough to survive the rigors to come. When they are feeding hard on baitfish our fishing can be a blast! By late March we will start to bring in
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Ken Milam
some of the best fish of the year, and it stays pretty steady until the summer heat starts to slow them down. I know some people are concerned about the white bass run this year. Every year about Valentine’s Day, give or take a week or two, the white bass make a mad dash upstream for their own spawning party. They can and do readily reproduce naturally in Texas…a lot! Once again, they will be feeding hard and are easily caught! Just be sure and study up on how to tell them apart from baby stripers and hybrids so your keeper white bass don’t end up being undersized stripers when the game warden checks you out! In case you are worried about the low lake and river levels keeping the white bass from spawning, not to worry if they are lake fish. They can spawn on the backside of sandy points and such if need be. Watch around submerged brush piles and structure for crappie and largemouth who are also starting to nest. They’ll take a bait if they are hungry or if it just gets them riled up coming too close. Either way they are fun to fish! Just know the fish are already getting their new year off to a great start too. You know where to find them or find a guide who does. To them the eclipse will just be a couple of weird short days and they don’t care who gets elected. As long as you bring something to eat, they’ll be happy to see you!
Captain Clendon’s Winter Report
s winter approaches, the fishing on Choke Canyon has slowed down quite a bit. When a cold front comes through and drops the water temperature, the crappie and white bass pull off of their fall spots and suspend. Once the weather stabilizes, they will move back to either their fall areas or their winter areas. For crappie, these consist of either brush piles and standing timber to ledges and long rocky points. Shallow flats to creek channel edges. The white bass will go from semi deep treetops and hard bottom areas, like road beds. To deep standing timber, humps, and deep points. This is the time of year I really try to downsize and match the hatch. The fish will be lethargic with the cooler water temps. Thus, I’ll work my baits a lot slower
than in the warmer months. For crappie, it’s hair jigs, minnows, and straight tail soft plastics. And for white bass, it’s jigging spoons, crank baits, road runners, and Mepps spinners. Paired with a Trika 7ft medium lite spinning rod. Most of our cold fronts are shortlived. As the weather stabilizes and warms up by the end of the week, the fish will move back to their fall spots until the next front moves in. Once winter fully settles in, so will the fish. Go out early, stay late, and tight lines! Facebook - C&C Guide Service Instagram Castingandcatchingguideservice If you’re looking to fill the freezer or have a good old-fashioned fish fry, give me a call at 210-831-4679, and let’s go Catchin!
Captain Clendon Taylor Casting & Catching Guide Service Sponsored by:
Austin Construction News • JAN 2024
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The Great Outdoors
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Happy New Year Outdoorsmen
hope everyone was blessed enough to get that 5+ year old buck y’all have been watching grow for 3+ years. If you did not, I share in your frustration of not waiting for him or wondering which hunter was field dressing him after hearing the World War III type of shooting happening on opening day. I was fortunate enough to get an older 8 point that apparently has not missed any meals the past few years the second day of gun season. He was very thick and loaded up my freezer. I am very thankful for the food he will provide throughout the year, BUT I should have waited a couple weeks because my target buck walked right across two of my cameras to the food plot I’ve worked to grow the day after Thanksgiving. With that being said, I’d like to share a couple of pointers that were shared with me by a good friend concerning prepping your land, lease, or hunting area for the
following season. First, PLAN your food plots during hunting season and start working on them AFTER hunting season. The main objective of food plots is to keep your herd close if hunting a low fence hunting area or have an eating area for does on high fence land. I planted 4 berry bushes that get lots of attention and edible ground cover such as rape, radishes, clover, beets, and oats. Second, make sure your plots are shootable and in the center of your land. The whole point of eating areas is to draw them in and keep them coming throughout the year. DO THE WORK TO REAP THE REWARDS!! Now for my favorite, wintertime fishing! Man, I love fishing December thru March in Texas!!! I have been very blessed to catch and have clients catch some monsters this time of year, BUT it comes at a price…..PATIENCE. The baits that I like to throw and that are most effective this time of year require diligence and
patience. I throw red rattletraps, A-rigs, swimbaits, C-rigs, weightless senkos, jigs, and my favorite, jerkbaits. I know that sounds like a lot different baits, but they are all extremely effective and produce great results this time of year. My suggestion to every client that gets in my boat this time of year is, learn a new technique and even try to master it so you will have a pocket full of options the following Sharelunker season. Here are some tips I’ve learned for my favorite technique, jerkbaits. We’ve all heard the expression, Keep It Simple Stupid. This is definitely the case for jerkbaits. You don’t need every color offered to catch giants in Texas lakes. BAITFISH colors are the only ones you need such as threadfin, a variation of a clear bait, and white. I typically fish jerkbaits Dec-Feb due to the below 55 degree water temperature. I also change the hooks on every jerkbait so that my
bait slightly suspends at a 45 degree angle when paused. I use a spinning rod 8090% of the time, (only time I use a baitcaster is when there is no wind and the jerkbait is above 1/2oz) with 30# braid and a 12# fluoro leader. I tie a loop knot to the bait for better bait action during the pause and let ‘er rip!!! The most important advice I can give for working jerkbaits is PATIENCE during the pause and change your retrieve cadence (pop, pause, pop, pop, pause, pop, pause, pop, pop, pop, pause). My pauses are 5-15 seconds and here’s the reason. When a shad is injured or dying, it does not swim with the same consistent motion. It’s very erratic and inconsistent. Now go put the work in guys & gals and land that Sharelunker or personal best with a new winter technique!!! Brian Parker, Texas Bass Tours
Brian Parker Texas Bass Tours Professional Guide Service Serving Falcon, Choke Canyon & Amistad
Three 8 pt. bucks were harvested at the EPi Enclosures & Engineering family ranch, Rancho Colorado Del Norte in D’hanis, Texas.
Rogelio Salinas, Master Welder, EPi Enclosures & Engineering
Rudi Rodriguez, CEO of EPi Enclosures & Engineering
Danny Salinas, Rogelio Salines, and Becky Salinas
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Austin Construction News • JAN 2024
KDW Design and Build Expands to Austin
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ingham Dalton Wilson, Ltd (KDW), is a design and build firm with deep Texas roots. Founded in 1895 in Nacogdoches, Texas, KDW has become a leader in the construction industry. An enduring family legacy has ushered the company into its fifth generation, now led by a dynamic team with over 100 years of combined expertise in the industry. Large scale and high-end projects dominate their company’s diverse project portfolio, from a glossy, high tech STEM building at Stephen F. Austin State University, water parks in Katy and Pflugerville, Katy Hotel and Conference Center, and even the historically accurate renovation of Robertson County Courthouse and Jail in Franklin, to numerous complex and industrial manufacturing facilities across the state. KDW showcases their diverse design capabilities and ability to execute massive, complex projects with precision and efficiency. From site
selection, estimating, in house architecture and design, cost control, project management and everything in between, KDW has proven to Texas over decades that they have what it takes to get their clients from groundbreaking to ribbon cutting- within scope, on time, and on budget. Recently, Construction News had the opportunity to speak to Luke Kingham, Principal-in-charge of Central Texas operations, about an exciting recent development for their company, their expansion to Austin. Located at 3508 Far West Blvd, Suite 300, Kingham says he’s excited for KDW to become part of the unprecedented growth to the region. Even with their current headquarters established in 2004 in Houston, KDW has already been involved in many projects in Central Texas for the last decade. They have been a leader in the industrial growth in the region, with a major focus on cold storage, advanced
Rivette Tower by Ryan Cos. Nearing Completion
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ocated in the highly successful, 700-acre Mueller mixed-use neighborhood in Austin, the Rivette Tower multifamily community has topped out and is anticipating a late spring occupancy for its prospective tenants. The Mueller neighborhood was built on the site of what was once Austin’s Robert Mueller Airport. Situated adjacent to an historic air traffic control tower which provides a stately focal point, Rivette Tower is poised to become a landmark of its own in the community. This master planned, multifamily housing community features two buildings, and will contain 345 units. The units will range from studios, one bedroom, one bedroom with a home office, which will be very attractive to professionals who work from home. Two- and three-bedroom units and townhomes will also be available. The finished project will boast a resort-style pool, private courtyards, thoughtfully designed gathering and co-working amenity spaces, ample outdoor private and gathering areas, a central paseo,
expansive pet amenities, bike maintenance and storage facilities, and a rooftop sky deck overlooking the control tower and city skyline. Fifteen percent of the building’s units will be reserved for affordable housing, which will be available to individuals whose annual income is at or below 60 percent of the median income for the area. Rivette Tower’s walkability and accessibility to downtown Austin, The University of Texas, unique shops, and restaurants make it an appealing community for prospective residents. Many young families enjoy the community’s ample green space, which includes a 30-acre Lake Park, complete with jogging trails and an open-air amphitheater. Ryan Companies and partners have brought to life a vision for the project, which is bringing much needed affordable urban housing to a vibrant neighborhood with community in mind. Many families and individuals are sure to be very happy to call Rivette Tower their home. -ndw
manufacturing and distribution facilities. These facilities help stimulate economic growth to the area in the form of employment opportunities, which is critical to growing towns in the area. One recent project KDW is close to completing in Kyle is a manufacturing plant for Sovereign Flavors, a food and beverage company that manufactures flavors. The food grade facility will feature cold storage, warehouses, manufacturing and office space all in one massive facility. In October, they began putting up timber frames that will crown the front entrance, one of the beautiful design elements that bring a stately, inviting look to the building. This past April, KDW broke ground on a site in San Antonio that will be the new San Antonio home of Balcones Resources, located at 6006 Freeport Road, San Antonio. Balcones Resources, headquartered in Austin, is expanding to San Antonio after the city awarded them their municipal recycling contract last year. The Balcones Resources Recycling Campus represents a multimillion-dollar investment in the San Antonio area’s recycling program. The new space will be a Material Recovery Facility (MRF). The MRF will feature state-of-the-art sorting technology, such as Auger screens that eliminate the pre-sorting station, and many other advancements that will streamline the recycling process. All these details have been factored into the design of the project and the construction process. Completion of this project is slated for April 2024. Luke Kingham started working
summers with his family’s business at 13 years old. As a young adult, he knew wanted to be part of his family’s legacy and began pursuing his degree in Construction Engineering Technology from Texas Tech. After graduation, he moved to Austin and began working on projects in the Central Texas market. He then moved to Baton Rouge to complete a project and on his return from that he settled in at the headquarters in Houston for the next 8 years, but he still had his eye on the unprecedented growth in Central Texas and knew that he wanted to get back to the Austin area and be a part of it. In November of 2022, with the opening of the brand new KDW office, Kingham and his family relocated to Austin. Kingham and his wife, Anna and their two young sons- one toddler, and one newborn, are very happy to be making Austin their home. Congratulations on the new addition to the family, Kinghams! The next generation of this dynamic family has begun. -ndw
Luke Kingham
Let Them Eat Cake
Happy 82nd birthday to the one and only, the founder of Wilborn Steel Co., Tom Wilborn. Tom celebrated with family at the Wilborn Steel Christmas lunch.
Tanner Mathews
713-829-8894 tanner@kennyscs.com
Premier Landscape Renovation ARTIFICIAL TURF | DECORATIVE STONE FLAT WORK | FENCES & GATES
Austin Construction News • JAN 2024
Page 9
‘Tis the Sea-Sun to be Jolly! It was a beachy Christmas for the construction industry’s biggest Christmas party in town. On Dec. 7, the Construct A Kids Christmas Gala returned to the Alzafar Shrine Temple bringing the beach to the evening. The ever-popular silent and live auctions and grand gala raffle were an astounding success. It was a night to remember, and filled with people supporting a wonderful cause. Throughout the years, Construct-A-Kid’s Christmas has raised over $1 million dollars and collected 33,000 toys for the children of San Antonio and South Central Texas, and it’s all thanks to the beautiful hearts of the people and companies in the local construction industry. -ndw
Photos courtesy of Mary K. Haskin Photography
Bringing in the Toys This year’s annual Construct-A-Kid’s Christmas Gala and toy drive was a great success. $50,000 dollars from the proceeds and 1890 toys collected will go to the children of San Antonio and South Texas, brightening their Christmas in difficult situations. The donation was presented to Bexar County Child Welfare Board, Child Advocates of San Antonio, (CASA) and CASA of South Texas. Special thanks to: Urban Concrete Contractors for providing the truck for the Toy Drive, Moses Arredondo with Urban Concrete Contractors for loading and driving truck for deliveries, Jason and Jessica DeSouza of DeSouza Injury Lawyers providing the location for the Toy Drive, Volunteers from CASA, Bexar County Child Welfare Board and Child Protective Services, San Antonio trade associations who came to help out with the event, to Buddy and Reesa Doebbler for all they do to make this event a reality, and to all the companies who brought toys to the Gala and to the Toy Drive! Hope to see you all again next year! -ndw
Crew at CASA receiving toys
CAKC Committee with checks in hand for Bexar County Child Welfare Board, Child Advocates of South Texas (CASA) and Child Advocates of San Antonio (CASA)
So many helpers to load the sleigh, making sure all the kids have toys on Christmas day!
Moses Arredondo with Urban Concrete Contractors
Look at all those toys for the kids!
Angela White President & CEO, CASA
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Austin Construction News • JAN 2024
M
Virtual Builders Exchange Celebrates Michael Tollette
onday, November 20, 2023, marked a special occasion for Michael T. Tollette, Chief Executive Officer of Virtual Builders Exchange, LLC (Formerly the Builders Exchange of Texas) and staff and family gathered to celebrate his 30th anniversary with the company. Although Michael jokingly refers to himself as the head of sanitation and waste management, he has earned a reputation as a visionary and a leader over the last three decades, both in the U.S. and Canada. Builders Exchange began in 1900 as a means for contractors to “exchange” bidding information when project supplies were carted to jobs by mules and project information was displayed on chalkboards. As we all know, innovation in technology and the subsequent introduction of the Internet changed all our lives, and quickly. Michael was called upon to adapt to all the new changes and give his team the confidence to adopt the new technology that would bring Builders Exchange into the future. Michael remembers when he received his first plans on a CD ROM from the Army Corps of Engineers and realized that the cost to print those plans would be over $600 dollars. To have so much information available in an instant, in the palm of your hand, was groundbreaking. It took up less space and would save money. As he recalled, he once had a young estimator in his plan room who said, “I’m not going to do anything with these computers. I don’t like it.” Michael told the man, “Well then, you’re going to learn six words. May I take your order, please? Because if you don’t move with the technology, you don’t have a future in the industry.” When Michael began his career with
Builders Exchange in the fall 1992, it was as an intern completing requirements for his degree. After graduation, he was offered full time employment with the Exchange as Associate Director, advancing into the Executive Director role within five years. In the summer of 1997, Michael launched the nation’s first online plan room service, introducing the internet-based technology to the construction industry five years ahead of national competitors. In 1998, Michael’s accomplishments were recognized by his peers when he was presented with the Management Award at a meeting of the International Builders Exchange Executives (IBEE). The Award is given for exemplary skill, vision and leadership in association and plan room management. By 2001, Michael earned his second IBEE Management Award for his efforts on behalf of its members and was elected as president of the international organization in 2002.At the conclusion of Michael’s presidency, his contribution to the success of Builders Exchange was recognized through the organization’s most prestigious honor - the Dan Patrick Award, given for outstanding service. Michael was again honored by IBEE in 2005, this time with the No Boundaries award, that he himself inaugurated during his presidency three years earlier. The Award recognizes an executive that “consistently demonstrates boldness, creativity, vision and a willingness to challenge accepted limitations in managing the individual’s own organization.” In 2008, a series of events culminated in an unprecedented decision by the Builders Exchange of Texas Board of Directors to separate non-profit services from profit-driven services by privatizing
the plan room operation. In April of that year Michael attained legal ownership of the online plan room business he created, and relaunched operations under the name Virtual Builders Exchange, LLC (VBX) is now recognized as the premier construction service in Texas. Together with Brenda Romano, the Chief Operations Officer and Co-Owner of VBX, they employ a staff of 31 who provide construction opportunities in the most accessible and efficient way. In reaching this incredible milestone, Michael’s friends, family, and staff wanted to surprise him with a luncheon in honor of 30 years of service to the Builders Exchange. While sitting in his office doing some paperwork with Brenda, there was a knock on the door. It was one of his staff members, telling him they needed him in the boardroom. His immediate feeling was dread, thinking, something is happening in the boardroom, that I don’t know about? That’s not a good thing. So that made the surprise even sweeter when he realized his family and friends were there to surprise him with a luncheon to celebrate his 30 years. Michael’s family was on hand, including his wife Allyson, son Mitch, daughter Allie and daughterin-law Lexi Dietrich-Tollette. Retired Executive Director Sandra Whitehead was also in attendance, under whom Michael first served. In addition to serving his favorite foods, and a giant cookie cake, He was presented with a retrospective book containing highlights of his career, along with gifts from friends and the Exchange’s traditional crystal anniversary award. Michael was touched by the surprise, and it was the perfect way to celebrate his 30 years of bringing VBX into the future. -ndw
Sandra Whitehead and Michael Tolette
Congrats Michael Tolette on 30 years of service!
Association Calendar
Content submitted by Associations to Construction News ABC CTX Associated Builders & Contractors Central Texas Chapter Jan. 25: 2024 Kickoff Celebration, 4:306:30pm, Quince Lakehouse, 3825 Lake Austin, Blvd., #201, RSVP: Tricia Churchill, tchurchill@ abccentraltexas.org ACEA Greater Austin Contractors & Engineers Association Jan. 5: Coffee Chats, 7:30-9:30am, Trianon Coffee, 3654 Bee Caves Rd., Ste. A, Austin Jan. 11: January Luncheon, 11:30am-1pm, Norris Conference Center, 2525 W. Anderson Lane, Austin Jan. 22: Frostbite Tournament, 8:30am, Onion Creek Golf Club, 2510 Onion Creek Parkway, Austin AIA American Institute of Architects Austin Jan. 16: Design Voice Meeting, 12pm, AIA Austin, 801 W. 12th St., Austin CTRCA Central Texas Roofing Contractors Association Jan. 16: Lunch & Learn (Pflugerville), 11am1pm, Sparetime, 1724 FM 685, Pflugerville CTSA Central Texas Subcontractors Association Jan. 16: 2024 Kick Off Event, Pinballs Lake Creek, 13729 Research Blvd., Austin DACA Drywall Acoustical Contractors Association Jan. 31: Banquet & Casino Night, 6-10:30pm, Maggiano’s at the Domain, Austin HBA Home Builders Association Greater Austin Jan. 19: President’s Install and State of the HBA Luncheon, 11:30am-1:30pm, Austin Board of Realtors, 4800 Spicewood Springs, Austin
TACCA Texas Air Conditioning Cooling Contractors Association Jan. 17: Member Meeting TSA Texas Society of Architects Jan. 18-19: TxA Leadership Retreat, 12:am TXAPA Texas Asphalt Association Jan. 16-17: TXAPA Golf Tournament & Membership Meeting, 200 Hi Circle N, Horseshoe Bay
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Austin Construction News • JAN 2024
Page 11
Charity Begins at Home ‘Tis the season to appreciate members! Over 150 Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) Central Texas members gathered on Dec. 6 & 7 for their annual Member Appreciation Holiday Parties. Members generously collected an overwhelming number of gifts for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas. They are proud to support the Ronald McDonald House mission of providing a home away from home for families in need. Huge thanks to the generous ABC Central Texas members for spreading joy and making a difference this giving season!
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Austin Construction News • JAN 2024
OSHA
O
LEGAL
Outdoor Work
Creating a Contract Requires Acceptance and Mutual Assent
Joann Natarajan Compliance Assistance Specialist OSHA Austin, TX
R. Carson Fisk Andrews Myers P.C. Austin, TX
utdoor work requires proper preparation, especially in severe winter weather conditions. Engineering controls can be effective in reducing the risk of cold stress. For example, radiant heaters may be used to warm workplaces like outdoor security stations. If possible, employers should shield work areas from drafts or wind to reduce wind chill. Safe work practices that employers can implement to protect workers from injuries, illnesses and fatalities include: • Providing workers with the proper tools and equipment to do their jobs. • Developing work plans that identify potential hazards and the safety measures that will be used to protect workers. • Scheduling maintenance and repair jobs for warmer months • Scheduling jobs that expose workers to the cold weather in the warmer part of the day • Avoiding exposure to extremely cold temperatures when possible • Limiting the amount of time spent outdoors on extremely cold days. • Using relief workers to assign extra workers for long, demanding jobs. • Providing warm areas for use during break periods • Providing warm liquids (no alcohol) to workers • Monitoring workers who are at risk of cold stress • Monitoring the weather conditions during a winter storm, having a reliable means of communicating with workers and being able to stop work or evacuate when necessary. • Acclimatizing new workers and those returning after time away from work by gradually increasing their workload, and allowing more frequent
breaks in warm areas, as they build up a tolerance for working in the cold environment. • Having a means of communicating with workers, especially in remote areas • Knowing how the community warns the public about severe weather: outdoor sirens, radio, and television. Dressing properly is extremely important to preventing cold stress. When cold environments or temperatures cannot be avoided, the following would help protect workers from cold stress: • Wear at least three layers of loose-fitting clothing. o Layering provides better insulation. o An inner layer of wool, silk or synthetic (polypropylene) to keep moisture away from the body. Thermal wear, wool, silk or polypropylene, inner layers of clothing that will hold more body heat than cotton. o A middle layer of wool or synthetic to provide insulation even when wet. o An outer wind and rain protection layer that allows some ventilation to prevent overheating. • Tight clothing reduces blood circulation. Warm blood needs to be circulated to the extremities. Insulated coat/jacket (water resistant if necessary) • Knit mask to cover face and mouth (if needed) • Hat that will cover your ears as well. A hat will help keep your wholebody warmer. Hats reduce the amount of body heat that escapes from your head. • Insulated gloves (water resistant if necessary), to protect the hands. • Insulated and waterproof boots to protect the feet.
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ey to a successful construction project are the terms of the contracts under which the project proceeds. Only a brave (or foolish) owner, contractor, or subcontractor would take on a construction project of any degree of complexity without a written contract in place. Despite the fact that most parties’ contractors recognize the benefits of a written contract, the proper procedures for contract formation may not always be followed. While this may be of no consequence, the end result very well may be a time-consuming and costly dispute. Given the significant risk that comes with a governing contract of questionable validity, it makes sense for a construction industry participant to be familiar with the legal procedures concerning contract formation. A contract is merely a promise or a set of promises that the law recognizes as establishing enforceable obligations. The purpose of a contract is to protect the expectations of the contracting parties that each party will perform as promised as well as to place the risk of performance on the party promising to perform. If a contractual promise is not fulfilled, a wronged party may file a legal action seeking damages or, in rare instances, may seek equitable relief to compel the breaching party to do, or not do, something. The elements of an enforceable contract are: (1) an offer; (2) an acceptance of the offer in strict compliance with terms of the offer; (3) mutual assent or a meeting of the minds as to the essential terms; (4) adequate consideration or mutuality of obligations; and (5) execution and delivery of the contract with an intent it become mutual and binding on both parties. In the construction context, issues with contract formation typically arise regarding acceptance and mutual assent. Acceptance is not binding until delivered to the offering party. Thus, as a rule to avoid any confusion, acceptance should be clearly communicated to the offering party. Unless otherwise allowed in the offer, a counter-offer acts as a rejection of the original offer. When an offer is rejected, the offer is terminated and it may not be revived by a later attempt at acceptance. But inquiries regarding the terms of an offer, such as a request to modify the price, do not constitute a rejection of the offer. A written contract
does not necessarily need not be signed by both parties to make it enforceable so long as the non-signing party accepts the contract by his acts or conduct. For example, commencing work while in position of an unsigned agreement could satisfy the requirement of acceptance, as could depositing payments made pursuant to an unsigned agreement. Mutual assent is the essence of a contract. It is often described as a “meeting of the minds” of the parties concerning the subject matter and all essential terms of a contract. There is no mutual assent, and no binding contract, if any essential provision is left open for future negotiation. Reservations concerning the contract are insufficient to prevent a meeting of the minds if they are not communicated to the other party. Texas law generally does not excuse a party from reading the contract. A person who accepts a written offer is presumed to know its terms. Consequently, claims based on a belief that provisions differed from those plainly set forth in the contract are generally not persuasive. Prudent business practices require clearly defined procedures for accepting, and having others accept, offers and counteroffers and expressing mutual assent to contractual terms. But even sophisticated contractors may bend the rules every once in a while. Pricing terms may be tentatively estimated to accommodate an owner who needs to secure financing or a contractor may begin to perform expecting that issues with the scope of work will be addressed shortly after work begins. While the intentions to work in good faith and accommodate others may be noble, the risk being incurred is often not worth the benefit. As to contractual risk being assumed, these issues are best addressed on the front end. A satisfactory offer needs to be clearly accepted and such acceptance needs to be clearly communicated to the offering party. Any issues with the essential terms need to be addressed before acceptance and before any work begins. By gambling on what the true final terms of a contract are, which is essentially what happens by not following the proper or best procedures for contract formation, an extremely time consuming and costly dispute may arise.
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Austin Construction News • JAN 2024
Page 13
INSURANCE
ACCOUNTING
Strategic Business Evaluation: Start the New Year Strong
Making adjustments for the New Year Charlie Saulnier, CPA Audit Senior Ridout Barrett San Antonio, TX
Brigette Burttschell The Nitsche Group Media & Content Manager Giddings, TX
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he beginning of the new year offers a critical crossroads for reflection, evaluation, and strategic planning. As the construction industry continues to evolve and face various challenges, it becomes increasingly crucial for construction companies to conduct a business evaluation at the beginning of each new year. This pivotal period offers an opportunity to assess the previous year’s performance, address existing challenges, and set the stage for success in the upcoming year. Laying a strong foundation for the upcoming year should begin by conducting a business evaluation. A business evaluation should include a thorough review and examination of crucial items including the company’s description of operations, employee handbook, claims history, financial health and insurance coverage. These items will directly influence how the company operates, the insurance coverage it is able to secure, and even the projects it will be awarded for the coming year. Let’s explore some key considerations, with a focus on business operations and insurance practices and how these elements contribute to the overall success and sustainability of construction businesses.
Description of Operations: Transparency and Communication A critical component of any business evaluation should include a review of the company’s Description of Operations. A Description of Operations is a document which provides a brief summary and outline of the specific projects, work and services a company engages in or provides. A detailed and up-to-date description of operations is an essential component of any strategic business evaluation as it provides transparency into how a company conducts its business. Insurance underwriters seek a clear understanding of a company’s operations to assess risk accurately. By providing a comprehensive and up-to-date description, companies can instill confidence in the insurer, potentially leading to more favorable coverage terms. Companies can start the process of reviewing and updating their description of operations by asking several key questions. • “Did our company offer any new services in the past year?” • “Did we add anything to our business or expand our scope of work?” If the answer is “yes,” then you need to update your Description of Operations to reflect those changes. You also need to speak with your insurance agent as soon as possible to explain these changes and confirm that your coverage is aligned with the work you do. Don’t wait until your policy renewal to discuss these services changes or additions with your insurance agent. By not disclosing changes to services or operations, you open yourself up to
possible coverage gaps or even damaging your companies’ reputation from an insurance standpoint. Claims History: Learning from the Past for Future Risk Mitigation Construction companies operate in an inherently risky environment, and a company’s claims history can have a farreaching impact on its ability to obtain insurance coverage, meet requirements to bid on projects, and secure bonding. Insurance providers closely evaluate a company’s claims history when determining coverage and premium rates. A clean claims history can indicate to an insurer that a company has effective risk management practices and may result in more favorable insurance terms. Whereas a history of frequent or severe claims can lead to higher premiums or even difficulties in securing adequate coverage. Companies with a poor claims history can also lose the opportunity to bid certain projects due to not fitting the requirements. Steps to Take: • Compile your claims history. • Review claims and identify patterns and problem areas. • Ask yourself what you’re currently doing to prevent claims and what more you can do to prevent future claims. • From these items, develop a risk management plan. • Provide this plan to your entire company and conduct regular safety training for employees at all levels. • Schedule regular claims reviews throughout the year to monitor and adjust risk management strategies. By integrating these practices into daily operations and company culture, a business can actively contribute to the improvement of its claims history, leading to better risk management and financial outcomes. Employee Handbook Evaluation: Fostering a Culture of Safety and Compliance An item often overlooked during strategic annual planning is the employee handbook. Having a handbook in place can not only help shield your business from employee lawsuits and claims, such as wrongful termination, harassment and discrimination, it can also paint your company in a more favorable light when it comes to securing insurance coverage. Insurance carriers reassess your insurance premiums based on the risk management you have in place your claims history. having an updated employee handbook can help to reduce employee lawsuits, workplace accidents, liability damages and other litigation expenses. Creating and updating an employee handbook isn’t easy, especially for small businesses. But it is a vital part of making sure your business is protected. If you have a handbook, be sure to regularly update it. It should serve as a living
I
t’s that wonderful time of the year - a season filled with warmth, joy, and the intricate dance of tax deductions intertwined with the concept of bonus depreciation. However, before you leap into upgrading those company vehicles or splurging on that shiny new line of equipment, let’s take a deeper dive into the substantial changes on the horizon for this year and beyond. In the wake of the COVID-19induced government-mandated shutdown, recent taxable years offered companies the boon of fully depreciating tangible fixed asset purchases in the year of their procurement, courtesy of the modified accelerated cost recovery method (MACRS). But now, commencing with the taxable year culminating on December 31, 2023, companies relying solely on MACRS will witness a notable shift. They’ll only be permitted to depreciate eighty percent (80%) of the cost for new tangible fixed asset purchases. Furthermore, this percentage will steadily decline by twenty percent (20%) annually until eventually reaching zero percent (0%). This change might be disheartening for those envisioning full depreciation for their recently acquired equipment or vehicles. However, alternative methods combined with MACRS could still pave the way for complete depreciation. Enter the reliable ally the Section 179 depreciation method. As you may already be familiar with, the Section 179 depreciation method offers the opportunity for complete depreciation of specific fixed asset purchases, subject to specific regulations and limitations. For qualifying vehicles, equipment, or
software placed into service before December 31, 2023, businesses may depreciate up to $1.16 million, provided it doesn’t exceed the total equipment purchase limit of $2.89 million. Keep in mind, maintaining your company’s profitability is crucial as utilizing the Section 179 method disallows deductions that might push your company into a loss for the year. Depending on your company’s financial standing, combining Section 179 and MACRS might lead to a scenario where no taxable income is incurred for the year, a potentially beneficial strategy. While the adjustment to MACRS has already taken effect for companies with fiscal years concluding on December 31, 2023, these regulations might undergo further modifications in the subsequent years due to changing governmental policies and elections. Hence, we strongly advise consulting with your accountant to gauge how these changes will impact your business by year-end. In the dynamic landscape of tax regulations, staying informed and adaptive to changes is essential for businesses. Understanding alterations to depreciation methods can significantly impact your company’s financial trajectory. Plan strategically, adapt judiciously, and seek professional counsel to navigate through these transitions astutely. Embracing these shifts in the tax landscape presents an opportunity for proactive financial planning. Evaluate your options, explore various depreciation methods, and proactively engage with financial experts to optimize your tax strategies in line with these evolving regulations.
Continued from INSURANCE document that evolves and grows with your company. Employee Handbook Considerations: • Has the company made any changes to internal policies, or employment practices? • Have any new safety protocols, compliance measures, or work policies been implemented? • Have there been any changes to industry regulations, state or federal laws, or employment standards? These are just a few items that should be taken into consideration and reflected within a company’s employee handbook. As laws, regulations, and industry standards evolve, failing to reflect these changes in the handbook can expose businesses to legal and financial risks. Coverage Review: Speak with Your Insurance Agent Once a company has completed its business evaluation, it’s vital to schedule
a time to speak with your insurance agent. Be sure to discuss your current coverage to ensure it adequately addresses the risks and exposures you currently face. Be sure to schedule regular meetings with your agent for the upcoming year. Regularly reviewing coverage with your insurance agent can potentially help avoid coverage gaps and may be the difference between financial stability and significant loss. Build This Year’s Foundation For Success The start of the new year is a pivotal time for companies to reflect on their performance, plan strategically, and position themselves for success in the coming year. From the description of operations to an employee handbook and claims history evaluation, each component plays a vital role in shaping the company’s risk profile and will influence business outcomes for the year ahead.
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Austin Construction News • JAN 2024
Billd Secures Patent for Project-Based Credit Evaluation Method
he Catamount Constructors team is making great progress on this three-building, 485,000 square foot, industrial project in Pflugerville, Texas! Current milestones include: Building 8’s panels are erected and steel installation is complete, roofing is being installed, and MEP Rough-in is ongoing on the interior. Building 6 and 7’s panel and steel erection are ongoing! The team is looking to complete the building envelopes for each building by midJanuary. Once that phase is complete, interior fitout, site paving completion and landscaping will begin! Billd, the leader in payments for commercial construction subcontractors, has successfully been issued a patent for their project-based credit evaluation method. This method determines credit offers for subcontractors by assessing the project on which the credit will be used. Billd was first to market by launching a suite of financial products to fix the broken repayment chain for subcontractors and to disrupt a $1.5T construction industry. Billd provides extended terms on materials as well as immediate advances on approved pay applications, helping thousands of subcontractors establish the liquidity they needed to deliver timely and successful work on their commercial projects. Billd securing a patent for this project-based credit evaluation method is a key milestone towards expanding and protecting their market impact. Historically, subcontractors have been underserved by financial institutions due to limited collateral and long payment timelines. By evaluating creditworthiness at the project as well as the business level,
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Billd can more accurately appraise risk and offer greater financial support. The patented method involves receiving project contract information electronically, analyzing project attributes, and using online data sources to verify and expand these details. The method then calculates a credit score for the project which determines a credit capacity. This method opens up purchasing power for subcontractors that meets their needs for procuring material on a commercial construction project. “At Billd, we believe subcontractors deserve financial solutions that align with their specific needs. This patent deepens our commitment to expand subcontractor access to financing and protects our intellectual property, verifying our first to market technology.” said Chris Doyle, CEO of Billd. The machine learning component of the method enhances its speed, efficiency, and repeatability, and eliminates the manual effort that project assessments would have typically required. The method can also learn from past projects to become better at determining potential risks associated with working capital for a specific project. It continuously updates its understanding based on new information and adapts its recommendations accordingly using artificial intelligence powered learning. This issuance has further solidified Billd’s growing portfolio of intellectual property through patents and trade secrets. The company was represented by Polsinelli Law Firm and will leverage its patent portfolio for protection of its intellectual property, and for the expansion of its innovative, first-tomarket payment and financing solutions.
Making Progress
he Catamount Constructors team is making great progress on this threebuilding, 485,000 square foot, industrial project in Pflugerville, Texas! Current milestones include: Building 8’s panels are erected and steel installation is complete, roofing is being installed, and MEP Rough-in is ongoing on the interior. Building 6 and 7’s panel and steel erection are ongoing! The team is looking to complete the building envelopes for each building by mid-January. Once that phase is complete, interior fitout, site paving completion and landscaping will begin!
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Austin Construction News • JAN 2024
Page 15
Work Hard, Play Hard What would the holidays be without some friendly competition between coworkers? The SpawGlass San Antonio, Austin and North Texas teams gathered together at their holiday parties & enjoyed food, fun, bowling, cornhole & a casino night!
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Austin Construction News • JAN 2024
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+ up to $500 USD toward an
Assurance Plan*
*Offer of 0% is for a loan term of 48 months and Zero Down Payment, valid from October 1, 2023 through December 30, 2023 on new compact (compact track loaders, compact wheel loaders, micro/mini excavators, skid steer loaders) and small (backhoe loaders, telehandlers, small track type tractors, small wheel loaders) Cat machines sold by HOLT CAT to customers in dealer territory. The credit of up to $500 USD for an IronPro plan purchase can only be applied toward the purchase of a qualifying IronPro Agreement (CVA). Purchases (both machine and IronPro Agreement) and machine delivery must occur during offer period. Offer subject to machine availability and credit approval by Cat Financial. Not all customers will qualify. Amount of the IronPro credit cannot exceed the price of the qualifying IronPro Plan. IronPro Plan must include 1-year Preventative Maintenance Parts Kit, TA1 annual Inspection, signed contract, and Product Link™. Amount of credit towards IronPro agreement is the same for all models. Offer may change without prior notice and cannot be combined with any other offers. Additional terms and conditions will apply. Contact HOLT CAT for details. ** Please contact your professional tax advisor for more information about your taxes. This is not meant to substitute for professional tax advice. © 2023 Caterpillar. All Rights Reserved. CAT, CATERPILLAR, their respective logos, “Caterpillar Yellow”, as well as corporate and product identity used herein, are trademarks of Caterpillar and may not be used without written permission. © 2023 HOLT Texas, Ltd. d/b/a HOLT CAT. All rights reserved. HOLT® is a registered trademark of HOLT Texas, Ltd. and may not be used without written permission.