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The Impact of Tariffs
Builders and suppliers confronted by a new economic challenge
Marion & Polk Counties
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2025 Board of Directors
OFFICERS
PRESIDENT
Andrew Wheeler, T. Wheeler Homes
VICE PRESIDENT
Beth Rhoades, C & R Remodeling
SECRETARY/TREASURER
Justen Maron, Olsen Communities
ASSOCIATE VICE-PRESIDENT
Samantha Crabb, Cherry City Interiors
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT
Oleg Foksha, Foksha Homes
FORMER PAST PRESIDENT
John Hammer, John Hammer Construction
Board Members
Ryan Brock, Withers Lumber
Dale Kaufman, Kaufman Homes
Dan Reynolds, Saalfeld Griggs PC
Gavin Radigan, Radigan Remodeling
Jed Bennett, Steve Bennett Construction
Scott Kelly, Kelly’s Home Center
Misti Miller, Radigan Remodeling
Yuriy Murashko, Mountain Coast Electric
Leonid Snegirev, LNC Homes
Tony Todd, Cascade Door
Kayla Van Lydegraf, The Fixture Gallery
Kelly Webb, AK Webb Remodeling
Duane West, 3Rs Construction
Mike Riddle, Mike Riddle Construction
Association Staff
Mike Erdmann, Chief Executive Officer mike@HomeBuildersAssociation.org
Haley Hamilton, Director of Shows & Events haley@HomeBuildersAssociation.org
Matt O’Reilly, Director of Member Services matt@HomeBuildersAssociation.org
Roy Shawgo, Director of Safety & Loss Control roy@HomeBuildersAssociation.org
Tracy Mitchell, Contract Accountant accounting@HomeBuildersAssociation.org
Home Builders Association of Marion & Polk Counties
2075 Madrona Ave SE Suite 100, Salem, OR 97302
tel 503-399-1500 | fax 503-399-0651 www.HomeBuildersAssociation.org
Table of Contents
The Impact of Tariffs
Current News
Mid-Valley Home Show • Cherriots Payroll Tax International Builders Show in Orlando • Rising Healthcare Costs HBA’s 2025 Awards • The 2025 New Product House
The Impact of Tariffs
Builders and suppliers caught betwixt and between by new economic challenge
from the Professional Women in
Mission Statement: We support those who build, improve and supply housing through advocacy, industry growth and professional success.
Welcome
As I close out my second year serving as President of the Home Builders Association of Marion & Polk Counties, I’ve been reflecting on just how much of a privilege this role has been. Over these two years, I’ve seen firsthand the dedication, creativity, and resilience of our members. Whether it’s advocating for our industry at the local and state level, showing up for events that strengthen our community, or volunteering time and resources to support HBA initiatives, our members continually remind me why this association is so strong. It has truly been an honor to serve you.
One of the things that has stood out to me most during my time as President is the way our association comes together when it matters. When challenges arise, whether from new regulations, rising costs, or threats to housing affordability, we’ve been united not only in standing up for our industry but also for our customers and for those who hope to become homeowners. The reality is that most homebuyers never see the direct impact of these higher costs. They don’t see the fees, the regulations, or the hidden expenses that get passed along into the final price of a home. But we see them, and we speak up on their behalf. In that sense, we are their voice as much as we are our own.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to share that I’ll be leading construction of next year’s New Product House in the Sorrento Estates development in South Salem. For those newer to the HBA, the New Product House is one of our most important traditions. Each year, a volunteer builder takes the lead in constructing a home that, once sold, provides critical funding for our Political Action Committee. Those funds give us the ability to advocate effectively for housing affordability, small business, and the issues that directly affect each of us.
This project is never about one builder. It’s about all of us. The New Product House succeeds because so many members step up — donating materials, discounting services, or giving their time to help bring the home to completion. It’s a shining example of how our industry can come together for something bigger than any single project.
If you or your company would like to be part of the 2026 New Product House, I encourage you to reach out to me directly at 503-881-2115. Whether you’re a supplier or a subcontractor, your contribution makes a difference. Not only will you be part of a project that supports the future of our industry, but you’ll also gain visibility as a partner in one of the HBA’s signature initiatives.
Serving as your President has been one of the highlights of my career, and I’m deeply grateful for the trust you’ve placed in me. I look forward to seeing many of you at the Installation & Awards Banquet this December as we welcome our new leadership and celebrate the accomplishments of this past year. And I look forward to working alongside many of you on the New Product House in the months ahead. Together, we will continue to build not just homes, but opportunity and affordability for our entire community.
Thank you for the honor of serving as your President.
Andrew Wheeler
2025 HBA President
T. Wheeler Homes, LLC
Your Customers Will be at the Mid-Valley Home Show in January – Will You?
The Mid-Valley Home Show is back this January, and it’s bigger than ever.
From January 9th – 11th, the Jackman Long building at the Oregon State Fairgrounds will transform into the hub of everything home building, remodeling, and design. As the largest and most-anticipated home show in the region, it’s where thousands of homeowners come ready to meet the professionals who can bring their ideas to life. For businesses, this is the moment to stand out. A booth at the Mid-Valley Home Show means face-to-face time with hundreds of potential customers who are actively looking for trusted local experts. Whether you’re a builder, landscaper, remodeler, designer, or service provider, this show connects you with people ready to start their next project. Booths are filling quickly, so don’t wait. HBA members receive $100 off booth space with code HBAMEMBER when registering at www.homebuildersassociation.org.
This event isn’t just about visibility - it’s about opportunity. Many vendors tell us the Mid-Valley Home Show is their single best source of qualified leads all year. Attendees come with questions, ideas, and budgets, looking for businesses they can trust. Make sure your company is there when those decisions are being made.
Looking for even more exposure? Sponsorships and advertising packages start at just $500. From program ads to event sponsorships, these options keep your name in front of attendees before, during, and long after the show.
And if you know another business that would be a great fit, spread the word. Every new exhibitor adds more variety for attendees and helps make the show stronger.
The HBA’s Mid-Valley Home Show has been a cornerstone of our community for decades, connecting homeowners with the professionals who make their dream projects possible. Don’t miss your chance to be part of it.
Reserve your booth today, explore sponsorship opportunities, and mark your calendar for January 9–11. We’ll see you at the 2026 Mid-Valley Home Show!
Fighting the Cherriots Payroll Tax
Cherriots, Salem’s transit agency, is proposing a new 0.7% employer payroll tax that would raise about $39 million annually starting in 2027. The tax would apply to private employers within the Salem-Keizer urban growth boundary, exempting government agencies, schools, churches, and charitable nonprofits. For businesses, the impact is real: a $500,000 payroll would mean an annual tax bill of $3,500.
Cherriots leadership says the tax is needed to fund expanded service — earlier mornings, later evenings, more weekend buses, new transit stations, and even a “microtransit” pilot program. They’ve held open houses and launched an online survey to promote their plan.
But for Salem’s small businesses, this proposal would make Cherriots the most heavily taxed transit system in the state. Unlike Portland’s TriMet or Eugene’s Lane Transit, which fund service through two revenue streams, Cherriots already has three: a property tax, an employee-paid payroll tax, and now this proposed employer payroll tax layered on top. And critically, Cherriots already stands to gain an additional $13 million per year after the Oregon Legislature voted recently to double the existing employee-paid payroll tax for transit. Even with this major new funding stream, Cherriots is pressing forward with a fresh burden on local employers.
Polling commissioned by the business community and conducted by one of Oregon’s most respected firms shows that 62% of voters oppose the new tax, with less than 27% in support. Even when told the money would add buses, reduce congestion, or bring Salem “up to par” with Portland and Eugene, Continued next page
HBA News
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voters remained opposed by the same margin. The Keizer City Council has unanimously opposed the proposal, and more than 100 local business leaders confronted Cherriots officials at a July forum, making clear that another payroll tax would hurt jobs, weaken small businesses, and further damage affordability. The HBA has joined with the Salem Chamber of Commerce and other business organizations to lead the opposition. On Thursday, September 25th, the HBA, Chamber of Commerce and many business owners testified before the Cherriots Board of Directors, laying out the polling data and explaining the harm this tax would inflict on builders, small businesses, and the families they serve. Our coalition has also been educating employers throughout the community and making it clear that, if the Board insists on moving forward, we are prepared to once again take the issue to the voters — just as we did in 2015 and in 2023.
The Cherriots Board is expected to vote on the tax in December of this year. While implementation may possibly be pushed back to 2027 under pressure from the business community, the proposal is still alive.
Our message is simple: Salem needs strong transit, but not at the expense of jobs and affordability. If Cherriots is willing to pause and work with us, we are ready to collaborate on real solutions. But if they insist on another payroll tax, we are ready for the fight - and history shows, the voters will stand with us.
Make Plan to Attend February’s International Builders Show in Orlando
Every winter, the National Association of Home Builders brings our entire industry together under one roof for the International Builders Show (IBS). Next year, it all happens in Orlando, Florida, February 17-19, and it promises to be one of the biggest and best yet.
If you’ve ever walked the IBS floor, you know it’s unlike anything else in housing. More than 70,000 builders, remodelers, suppliers, and trades from across the globe converge to share ideas, showcase innovations, and see firsthand where our industry is headed. Over 1,700 exhibitors will be there with the newest products, technologies, and services — everything from design trends to building science to tools that make your business more efficient.
But IBS is more than just a trade show. It’s also one of the best educational opportunities you’ll find anywhere. With more than 120 sessions led by the industry’s top experts, you can dive into topics that matter right now: how to manage regulatory challenges, how to build smarter and more affordably, how to recruit and retain talent, and how to market in today’s economy. These are not abstract discussions - they’re practical takeaways you can put to work the moment you get home.
Just as important, IBS is where relationships are built. The connections you make over three days in Orlando can pay off for years to come. Whether it’s meeting suppliers with solutions you didn’t know you needed, swapping ideas with builders from across the country, or networking at evening receptions and NAHB council events, you’ll come away with new contacts and fresh perspectives.
The Spike Club is an exclusive group of members who contribute to the growth of the association by recruiting and retaining members. Spikes maintain a special status, have the respect of their peers as valued members of the HBA and are recognized for their efforts locally and nationally. To become a Spike, bring in six members to the HBA. Applications for prospective members are online at the HBA website or may be obtained from the HBA office, or call to have one sent to the prospective member.
ALL TIME BIG SPIKE 1500+
John Gooley 2814
STATESMAN SPIKE 500+
Ric McNall 812
SUPER SPIKE 250–499
John Mills 453
Dan Dorn 377
Jeffrey Green 383
Chuck Foster 295
Jordan Schweiger 291
Mike Riddle 290
Jubal Frost 287
Greg Conser 256
Steve Johnson 257
ROYAL SPIKE 150–249
Tom Wheeler 222
Don Druliner 204
Rick Ziebell 177
RED SPIKE 100–149
Kelvin Dettwyler 147
Rob Rardin 129
Jodi Bailey 117
John Hammer 108
Brad Moore 104
Matt Holstege 101
GREEN SPIKE 50–99
Kent Kaufman 96
Dan Fitzgerald 92
Rich Kansky 85
Eric Olsen 82
Bob Cavell 78
Larry Bilyeu 75
Don Sturgeon 75
Matt Endler 67
Kerry Kuenzi 66
Jim Hobbs 48
Ryan Bloedel 48
Oleg Foksha 66
Kathy Temple 65
Eric Templeton 65
Serge Serdsev 60
Patrick Jackson 59
Mike Smith 56
Rich Tovar 53
Randy Melton 51
Eric Jensen 50
LIFE SPIKE 25–49
Laura Dorn 32
Mark Shipman 32
Kimberly Woodward 46
Jason Sawyers 44
Andrew Wheeler 42
David Hafner 40
Nolan Fridley 40
Chad Robb 31
Hunter Emerick 30
Kevin Stone 28
Steve Hurley 27
Kraig Kelly 26
BLUE SPIKE 6–24
Jason Robertson 23
Santiago Sarmiento 15
Brett Tallan 14
Samantha Crabb 13
Don Lulay 12
Gary Epping 12
Chad Montgomery 11
Ricky Fast 11
David Qualls 10
Chris Rasmussen 10
Jim Sparkman 9
Kelli Terjeson 8
Eric Olsen 8
Dale Van Lydegraf 7
Caleb Remington 8
Alan Sorem 6
And let’s be honest - Orlando in February doesn’t hurt. After a long Oregon winter, a few days of sunshine, energy, and inspiration can be just the boost you and your team need heading into the busy season.
For HBA members planning to attend, rooms are still available in the Oregon housing block hotels — the Rosen Centre Hotel and the Hampton Inn Convention Center — but they will fill soon. If you’re considering attending, now’s the time to lock in your spot. Mark your calendar for February 17–19, and make plans now to be part of the 2026 International Builders Show. You’ll come back with ideas, resources, and relationships that will strengthen your business for years to come.
For details on registration and travel, visit www.buildersshow. com.
Rising Healthcare Costs: What Employers Can Do
Healthcare costs continue to rise across the nation, placing increased pressure on employers, and builders are no exception. For members of the Building Industry Insurance Trust (BIIT), the HBA’s medical insurance program through Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon, finding cost-effective, high-quality health coverage is more important than ever.
This burden places a constraint for any company, especially small to mid-sized businesses. That is why BIIT has partnered with Capital Benefit Services to offer cost-effective health insurance plans. That way you can continue to attract great talent with quality benefits while saving money.
So, what can employers do?
1. Leverage Group Purchasing Power
One of the greatest benefits of an association health plan like BIIT is the strength in numbers model that pools all companies together. This means companies don’t have to go it alone with an insurance carrier. They leverage more buying power and can negotiate lower rates on average.
2. Explore Tailored, Flexible Plans
The Building Industry Insurance Trust offers a variety of plan designs, with multiple options for medical and many other options for vision, life, and employee assistance. All plans can be customized for your workforce. Whether you have a small crew or a large team, you can find options that balance affordability with comprehensive coverage.
3. Promote Preventive Care
If you’re already a member of BIIT and want to save even more. Ensure that your employees are using their covered preventive services. Annual checkups, screenings, and wellness programs are typically included and can reduce long-term costs by catching health issues early. Wellness programs often earn perks, gift cards, or discounts for your employees as well!
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HBA News
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4. Educate and Engage
Helping employees understand their benefits and how to use them wisely can lead to smarter health care decisions and lower overall costs. One benefit that is often overlooked is the free access to First Choice Health and their Employee Assistance Program that comes with every BIIT Health Plan. This includes services like free counseling sessions, financial advice, help finding child/elderly care, legal support, and much more.
Bottom Line: Health insurance is tricky and costs are a challenge, but BIIT members don’t have to face it alone. The Building Industry Insurance Trust offers a proven path to savings, stability, and better health outcomes for your team.
Learn more at https://www.buildingindustryinsurancetrust.com/
Nominate a Standout for HBA’s 2025 Awards
Every year, the Home Builders Association of Marion & Polk Counties takes time to honor the very best in our industry — the members who go above and beyond in their work, their commitment to the association, and their service to the community.
At the Installation & Awards Banquet on December 9th at the Salem Convention Center, we’ll recognize two of our peers with the HBA’s highest honors: Builder of the Year and Associate of the Year.
These awards are not simply about titles — they are about celebrating leadership, commitment, and impact. Winners are selected based on their contributions to the home building industry, their involvement and support of the HBA, and their dedication to giving back to our community. Past honorees have been those who lend their time, talent, and resources to strengthen our industry while setting an example for others to follow.
Now, we need your help. Take a moment to think about who stands out to you. Is there a builder whose professionalism and advocacy have made a difference this year? An associate member who is always there to support projects, events, or the association itself? Or maybe it’s you — don’t be shy about putting your own name forward.
Nominations are due by Friday, November 21st. Contact the HBA office for a nomination form and help us shine a spotlight on the people who make this industry stronger.
Join us on December 9th as we celebrate the installation of the new Board of Directors and honor the outstanding individuals who are shaping the future of home building and remodeling in our community.
The 2025 New Product House: Building a Stronger Future
There few industry as heavily regulated as home building and the land development needed to provide building lots. Every new rule, fee, and mandate adds cost - and those costs ultimately make it harder for families to afford a home. It’s no surprise that
housing affordability in our region is in crisis, and builders are constantly challenged to keep projects moving while navigating layers of regulation.
To keep our members working, and to protect affordability for future homeowners, we as an industry must respond. One of the most effective ways we do that is through the HBA’s Political Action Committee (PAC), which allows us to support candidates who understand the impact of overly burdensome regulations on housing affordability and small business, and to fight against ballot measures that would make the affordability crisis even worse.
The HBA’s New Product House is one of the key ways we raise those critical PAC funds. Each year, one of our members volunteers to build a home, which is then sold with the proceeds dedicated to strengthening our PAC.
This year’s New Product House was built by Oleg Foksha of Foksha Homes, who gave his time, expertise, and leadership to make the project possible. But as always, it was not a solo effort. A wide range of suppliers, subcontractors, and industry partners stepped up with donations, discounted materials, and countless hours of work to bring this home to life.
We want to extend our deepest thanks to the list of contributors listed below. Their generosity and commitment made this project possible, and by doing so, they’ve helped give our industry a stronger voice at City Hall, the Legislature and beyond.
Because of this teamwork, the HBA PAC is now stronger — and that means that we can help elect candidates who support our industry and economic growth, we can fight costly regulations and taxes that drive up housing costs, and we can push back on ballot measures that threaten our members’ ability to do business.
New Product House contributors
General Contractor-Foksha Homes
Advanced Construction & Business Services (Interior Cleaning)
Advanced Tree Management (Tree work)
Amanda Griswold, Tim’s Carpet (Interior Design)
Amcraft Cabinets (Cabinets )
Anaya’s Artistic Concrete (Concrete Flatwork )
Ashland Concrete Cutting (Concrete Cutting )
Builders First Source (Lumber)
Cascade Door (Doors and Millwork )
Dan Green Engineering (Engineering )
F&W Fencing (Fencing )
Falls Insulation (Insulation)
On behalf of the entire association, thank you to every contributor and to Oleg for leading this year’s New Product House. Together, we’re not just building homes - we’re building a stronger voice for housing in our community.
Finishing Construction A.N.S. (Drywall )
Garr Construction (Siding Installation)
Honey Bucket (Portable toilets)
Inlight Electric (Electrical )
J&M Gutters (Gutters )
Kellys Home Center (Appliances )
MSI Surfaces (Flooring)
MW Design Workshop (Custom Range Hood )
Oksana Foksha, HomeStar Brokers (Real Estate)
Oregon Concrete Pumping (Foundation )
Oregon Five Star (Drywall )
Oregon Tile & Design (Tile Supplier)
Owen Construction (Excavating )
Pacific Lumber (Lumber)
Parr Lumber & Windows (Lumber)
Partidas Construction (Framing )
Precision Truss & Lumber (Trusses)
Premiere Garage (Garage Floor Coating )
Ron Blacketer (Engineering )
Salem Door and Supply (Doors )
Sarmientos (Garage Doors )
Sarmientos (Roofing)
The Fixture Gallery (Plumbing Fixtures)
The Marble Center (Countertops )
Tim’s Carpet (Flooring)
Vicon Mechanical (Plumbing)
W&R Concrete (Foundation )
Wavra Design Co (House Plan)
West Lake Royal Stone Solutions (Masonry Stone Supplier)
Wilsonville Concrete (Foundation )
Withers Lumber (Lumber)
Woodward Heating (HVAC )
HBA News
HBA Joins Legal Fight Over Natural Gas Line Extensions
The Home Builders Association of Marion & Polk Counties has joined the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), the Oregon Home Builders Association, and the Home Builders Association of Greater Portland in filing what’s called an Amicus Brief in the Oregon Court of Appeals. This filing supports NW Natural’s lawsuit against the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC), which recently ordered the elimination of line extension allowances for new natural gas hookups .
What the Lawsuit Is About
For decades, Oregon utilities like NW Natural, PGE, and Pacific Power have offered line extension allowances (LEAs). These are credits — often worth $1,500 to $3,000 per home — that help offset the cost of connecting new homes to gas or electric service . By lowering upfront costs, LEAs make it possible for builders to extend utility service into new neighborhoods while keeping homes more affordable for buyers.
Last year, the PUC issued an order phasing out these allowances for natural gas connections by 2027. The Commission argued the change was necessary to align with the state’s climate policies. But in practice, this decision makes building new homes more expensive, reduces consumer energy choice, and hits lowand middle-income homebuyers the hardest .
NW Natural is challenging the decision in court, asking that the order be reversed.
What an Amicus Brief Is — and Why We Filed One
An Amicus Brief, simply put, is a way for groups not directly involved in a lawsuit to share their perspective with the court. “Amicus” means “friend” in Latin — so these filings are often called “friend of the court” briefs.
In this case, the HBA joined NAHB and other state and local HBAs in filing an Amicus Brief because our members are directly impacted by the PUC’s decision. The brief explains to the judges what this rule change means in the real world: higher construction costs, fewer housing options, and more families priced out of homeownership .
Why This Matters to HBA Members
Housing affordability in Oregon is already among the worst in the nation. NAHB’s analysis shows that 86.7% of Oregon households cannot afford a median-priced new home — and every $1,000 increase in home prices prices out nearly 1,000 more families from buying a home. Eliminating line extension allowances only adds to the problem by piling thousands of dollars onto the cost of every new home.
We also believe strongly in protecting the rights of customers to choose their energy and heating source — whether that’s electricity or natural gas. By eliminating LEAs, the PUC is effectively trying to dissuade developers from running natural gas into new subdivisions. That especially harms lower-priced homes and first-time buyers, who can least afford to absorb the additional costs of extending gas service without those credits.
The HBA’s role is to stand up for our members and for housing affordability. By joining this case, we are making sure that policymakers and the courts understand the real-world consequences of their decisions. This is about more than natural gas hookups — it’s about whether Oregon families will have access to affordable homes and energy choices, or whether regulators will continue to make homeownership harder to reach.
We’ll continue to keep members updated as this case moves forward.
October
October 24th
Showdown at Shortland PAC Golf Tournament
Shortland Golf Club, Wilsonville
December
December 9th
Holiday Installation & Awards Banquet
Salem Convention Center
October
October 23rd, 5-7pm
Off the Clock networking
The Fixture Gallery
November
November 18th
All-Member Dinner
Salem Convention Center
THE IMPACT OF TARIFFS
Builders and suppliers
caught betwixt and between by new economic challenge
By James Day
When Donald Trump returned to the presidency in January of this year businesses across the country braced for change because of Trump’s intention to target other countries with tariffs.
Now, we’re nine months into the new term and companies have had a chance to work with the new reality. But it doesn’t mean they have gotten a handle on it yet. Those in the home building and construction trades and their suppliers and subcontractors feel whipsawed back and forth and often left flying by the seat of their pants.
Overall, companies and contractors contacted by the Home Builders Association of Marion & Polk Counties feel calmer about things that they did earlier this year. But much uncertainty remains.
Kaufman Homes
Kent Kaufman of Kaufman Homes noted that when Canadian cedar went up people felt that must have been a tariff impact. Turns out it was a Canadian duty that already had been in place.
“Customers we work with have read about tariffs and really are concerned about them,” Kaufman said, “and it (price shocks) might be coming, but we just haven’t seen it yet. In talking with our vendors and suppliers there are definite concerns out there in the market. Some products we are shifting where they are sourced from. And there’s so much fear out there.
“The reality is that there have been a lot of threats and tactics. And you think there will be massive tariffs. But when you get down to the wire they start moving the needle. A lot of people can see how this stuff is going and not take it literally. So much of it is politics.”
For Kaufman, also, interest rates are more important than tariffs.
“Over the next three months, six months or nine months,” he said, “interest rates will have far more influence on my customers and my business. It’s hard to put a price on a tariff. A supplier may choose to swallow part of the tariff to keep the sale. But you always know what the interest rates are. We’ve always had price increases and figured our way through it.”
Photos by Ashley Russell
As an example, Kaufman mentioned lumber, an obvious key component of the housing industry.
“When we had price increases seven or eight years ago we were still working and people were still building homes. The cedar was less than 1% of the overall cost and you can double or triple that cost and it still won’t have an impact. For us on a custom home, lumber is less than 5% of the overall cost. That waters down its impact.
“But when interest rates go up, you can’t just go somewhere else. With tariffs we can pivot and find that product somewhere else in the open market. We can be pretty resourceful and figure things out. I don’t like the uncertainty of tariffs, but they don’t keep me awake at night. I would be more concerned about a 1% hike in interest rates.”
Rich Tovar
For Rich Tovar of Wind River Homes, the key tariff impact to date has been in finishes such as carpet, tile, quartz countertops and LVP (liquid vinyl plank).
“We’re being told it’s going to be about 3% to 5%,” he said of the increases. “But how much of that is tariff and how much is just a price increase? It’s hard to pin it on any one thing. There might be labor shortages and costs go up and you just have to cover that. Your suppliers are affected and prices go up.”
Tovar used as an example the chaos in the industry during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Tariffs are not even close to COVID,” he said. “It was so bad. For sheet goods like plywood we were paying $100 per sheet. Now, it’s back down to $13 to $20. Back then at the height of COVID some people were building metal homes. It was so much cheaper than wood. Steel studs. Steel flooring. But interest rates were at 1.8% or 1.9%. Renting money was so cheap builders could just swallow the supply increases. Interest rates were so low it was a boom. People were lined up to (get in the market).
“Today, it’s an ugly situation because rates are so high and prices are, too. The only people buying homes are people who have to because of a job change or something like that.”
Tovar answers “I don’t think so” to a question about the “dire” impacts of tariffs. “People are adjusting, suppliers, manufacturers and brokers. And because the market is down they are absorbing (tariffs) as much as they can and not getting the margins they used to.”
Like Kaufman, Tovar thinks interest rates hold the key.
“My biggest concern is interest rates,” he said. “We should not be at the rate we are now (4% to 4.25%). Interest rates should be at 2%. If that happened today housing would take off like a rocket. The economy would feed on that. It would be incredible.”
Rich Clausen
Rich Clausen of Thomas Kay Flooring and Interiors noted that many of his key flooring products, liquid vinyl plank (LVP), wood plastic composite (WPC) and stone polymer composite (SPC) “are generally made only in China,” a key target for President Trump’s tariffs. Clausen added that other Asian countries, Vietnam, Korea, Indonesia and India also are getting into the trade. Glass and windows also are subject to the volatility of Asian markets.
Clausen has been coping by doing large-scale buys, up to $1.5 million at a time, to take advantage of economies of scale.
But one of the challenges of the current volatile environment is that general contractors often get to flooring last when it comes to paying off subcontractors. Which means a price at the beginning of the process is no longer practical once the tariffs have hit.
“So some projects have just disappeared,” Clausen said, while adding that “as the markets have stabilized some projects have come back. Prices going up after the bids go out is a major risk factor and can have a big impact, especially for multifamily construction.
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“These are challenging times. Hopefully, with people moving into Oregon we’ll see some housing growth.”
Northside Electric
“To be sure these tariffs are affecting all of our businesses,” said Nate Scharer of Northside Electric. “Prices are going up across the board. Anything with copper in it, lighting fixtures, plugs and switches … we keep getting notices from manufacturers. Even manufacturers inside the U.S. are increasing prices because of material costs. Seems like we are getting price increases from suppliers every week. It’s ridiculous.”
And just as with others in the building trades, Scharer says sometimes it’s difficult to be sure whether an increase is tariff-related or not.
“With things like copper and aluminum it’s hard to know,” he said, “because those prices change so much. And they don’t seem proportional to what the tariffs are.”
Scharer thinks some suppliers are “ratcheting up prices gradually,” but adds “just because tariffs were announced yesterday doesn’t mean that it’s going to be implemented immediately. It could be three or four months.”
Looking ahead, Scharer said, is difficult.
“I don’t know what the future holds,” he said. “Some (increases) we just might have to eat. We might have to ask customers to recognize that and also try to buy for jobs ahead of time. But you don’t get paid until later. We’re just having to be proactive. It threatens your cash flow, but we’re in a position to do it.
“It’s nothing new; it’s business. You just find a way to overcome and adapt or you fail. We’re all in the same boat.”
Amy Mack
Amy Mack with Consolidated Supply and The Fixture Gallery, said “things have been fluid for a while now. At the beginning of the year you couldn’t hold a quote for more than 24 or 48 hours. Suppliers put in a price increase with tariffs as the reason.”
Mack said things “have settled down,” but that there still are times when she has to put a tariff note on a contract which says “we reserve the right to have that (price increase) conversation with you.”
The increases have come “across the board,” she said, “from pipe to fittings to little pieces of equipment. One time there was this tiny little part and we couldn’t complete the job because it came from China. It has caused a lot of havoc.”
Mack said that helping out has been the fact that some Canadian manufacturers have been buying parts from American companies and assembling them in Canada, which makes the finished items not subject to the tariffs.
With regard to the future Mack said “a month ago, things looked pretty fuzzy, but it’s starting to soften up. We’re getting used to it and making adjustments and we’re taking a look at our business partnerships as well. I think in the fourth quarter we’re going to finish strong. Rate cuts are coming and I think it’s going to start turning around. I hope I’m right.”
News from the Professional Women in Building Council (PWB)
by Misti Miller, 2025 PWB Chair
Every year the National Association of Home Builders’ PWB Council plans and celebrates a week of content to inspire and educate women across all areas of the building industry. Traditionally, our local PWB council follows along with the national program, but in 2025 we decided to carve our own additional path and created an engaging week that aligned with each of our goals for the year.
The key goals for our council this year included creating more opportunities for member engagement, additional education, more community involvement, greater collaboration, and sustaining the relationships and foundation that our council is built upon. By strategically scheduling our local PWB Week with a variety of events at different times of each day, a greater number of members were able to actively participate.
We kicked off the week by having guest speaker Jenifer Trivelli with WiseMind Educational Services provide an empowering and interactive seminar where we explored brain-based strategies to shift stress into strength, break free from the cycle of overwhelm, and create space to thrive both professionally and personally. Attendees were able to walk away with practical tools to help rise above the noise and step into a more grounded, resilient version of themselves.
On day two, PWB members and guests returned to Simonka Place to restock the living space we had remodeled three years ago. As we filled the room with new coloring books, puzzles, art supplies, crochet kits, and more – we were touched by the fact that the room still looked and felt like it did the day we had finished the remodel. While we were there, we prepped and served dinner for the women and children of the facility, and hosted an evening of bingo, prizes, and bubble machines for the kids. We received an email from the
Simonka Place program director the following week that read, “I just wanted to say THANK YOU for abundantly blessing our ladies! I have heard throughout the house how much fun they had, and how special the time was with you and your team. Meeting our guests where they are at, giving them a reason to smile, and taking away from the pain they are experiencing is so special.”
The next morning, members and guests gathered for a productive collaboration of insights and ideas to help solidify the vision of PWB for the new year to come. By providing feedback and input during this open forum, members could actively help create new and special opportunities for the future. To help support these future goals and make our community outreach possible, fundraising events are necessary. Day four of our PWB week consisted of one of our fundraising events, which is our annual cornhole tournament paired with the HBA BBQ. This fun and friendly get together is perfect for networking and is a good way to bring the HBA and PWB even closer.
During the final day of our week, which we called Wine and Unwind, we were able to relax and reflect on how thankful we are to be part of a dedicated and passionate group of people that want to continue to grow and make a difference within ourselves, our circles, and our community. Thank you to everyone that helped make this year and PWB Week amazing!
Building the Future: Young Professionals Growing in the HBA
How do we get young people involved in our community?
Where is our future if we don’t include them in this line of work? For years, the narrative has been that young people are turning away from traditional careers in the trades, choosing instead to pursue digital routes like becoming influencers, content creators, or social media stars.
But here’s the truth: that narrative is only half right. While there is a shortage of workers specifically in the trades, the younger generation is not running from these jobs, they are running toward them. Data shows that construction, building, and skilled trades remain attractive career paths for many young people who value hands-on work, independence, and the chance to build something tangible.
The problem isn’t interest, it’s connection. More than ever, we need to give young professionals a community, a place where they can thrive alongside peers, mentors, and business leaders who understand their journey. That is exactly why the Home Builders Association of Marion & Polk Counties recently created a Young Professionals Council.
A Place to Belong
The Young Professionals (YP) Council was built with one purpose: to ensure that young people in the home builders’ industry don’t just join the industry, but that they stay, grow, and lead.
This isn’t just another networking group. It’s a community of peers who share the same stage of life and career, who are facing the same challenges and opportunities. For a 25-year-old new business owner, or a 30-year-old plumber considering starting a company, it can feel intimidating to walk into a room of seasoned professionals who’ve been doing this for decades.
The YP Council bridges that gap. It provides a comfortable on-ramp where young professionals can find their footing, gain confidence, and learn the ropes, all while building relationships that can last a lifetime.
Making Membership Count
For those of us already part of the HBA, the YP Council is a reminder of why membership matters. The resources, events,
and programs you have access to through HBA deliver real, measurable value.
From fuel discounts and insurance programs to purchasing partnerships and business resources, most members find that their annual dues are paid back quickly through the savings they capture. The YP Council is one more way to maximize that return, by connecting younger members with tools, mentors, and opportunities that directly support their professional growth.
Why the Council Matters
The trades aren’t just jobs. They are careers, and they are businesses. Today’s young professionals are tomorrow’s builders, remodelers, and industry leaders. Without them, there is no future for housing. The YP Council creates a platform for these future leaders to sharpen their skills, find their voice, and build connections that will carry them through their careers.
Building Leaders, Not Just Workers
The YP Council is more than a steppingstone into the industry—it is a launching pad for leadership. Many of today’s HBA leaders began by showing up, volunteering, and learning in groups like this. Over time, they became committee chairs, board members, and ultimately the voices shaping the direction of the industry.
If we don’t actively engage young professionals now, we risk losing that future leadership pipeline. The YP Council ensures that the next generation is not just represented, but empowered to lead.
The future of our industry depends on how well we engage, equip, and empower young professionals today. The YP Council is here to make that happen.
Want more information on taking part in the HBA’s Young Professionals Council? Give Matt O’Reilly a call at the HBA at 503-399-1500 or email him at matt@homebuildersassociation.org
of these
Substantial member discounts on health insurance with Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon through the HBA’s Building Industry Insurance Trust.
Last year, members saw average savings of 42 cents per gallon on unleaded gas and 57 cents per gallon on diesel in the HBA’s fuel discount program with Ed Staub Petroleum.
Welcome New & Reinstated Members Thank you!
Acacia Ridge Contracting and Consulting
Tim Godfrey (503) 877-3650
Anderson Electric
Craig Anderson (503) 931-3267
Burton Plumbing Solutions LLC
Jeremiah Burton (971) 777-0959
C5 Construction LLC
Carlos Cerpas (503) 508-2975
Canyon Garage Doors
Keagan Bowers (503) 851-4518
Dana Tile
Dmitriy Zubkov (503) 931-1047
Earthlight Technologies
Tristan Kuenzi (503) 874-4142
Frankie L. Painting LLC
Francisco Lara de la Cruz (503) 990-1905
Galindo Drafting and Design, LLC
Jahaziel Galindo (503) 507-8356
Galloni Granite
Chris Galloni (503) 730-7015
Hammerquist Inc
Alice Baldwin (503) 991-3795
High Lake Development
Ashleigh Wilson (541) 914-6663
HomeSmart Realty Group - Robin
Bonnie
Robin Bonnie (503) 522-6095
Ironclad Financial LLC
Peter Jaquith (503) 383-1693
Monarch Architectural Construction
Hector Capetillo Ochoa (503) 877-7634
Noble Built Homes LLC
Owen Von Flue (503) 932-7698
Nova USA Wood
Terry Haddix (503) 419-6407
Old Guy Painting
Garrett Brown (503) 798-1782
Members in the HBA’s group workers compensation program with SAIF Corporation gets exclusive member discounts and customized safety and loss control consultation.
Omega Management Group LLC
Corey Boaz (720) 425-9934
PacWest Retaining Walls
Alex Petere (503) 897-9835
Pella Windows and Doors
Coby Torrence (503) 964-1854
Roberson Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
Brett Roberson (503) 363-4117
Skyline Sales Inc
Octavio Hernandez (503) 581-2411
Valley Access Systems
Brandon Panduren (971) 209-2681
Valley CFO Inc.
Tim McElravy (503) 654-2272
VisionMaker Homes
Shay Kahl (971) 900-9566
West Mountain Plumbing
Ethan Pollard (971) 446-1817
Vital Statistics
Vital Statistics
Photos: Local Oregon Legacy Builders/Alphalight