De Soto project creates access for new economic development
Survey shows Kansas parents more positive about trades, technical college
What it means for transportation
Leading Kansas lawmakers give RUC a thumbs down
Voters across country approve local transportation ballot issues
As a family-owned business spanning three generations and more than 80 years, our family’s mission and values are woven through the fabric of Kansas’ history. We’ve grown that mission from one store to 15 locations serving 144 counties with more technicians serving Kansas than any other heavy equipment dealer. While a lot has changed, Foley’s commitment to empowering the progress of our customers and the communities we serve has remained constant.
Winter 2024
Volume 4, Issue 2
Chad Girard, President APAC Kansas, Inc. - Shears Division
Josh Smith, Vice President Klaver Construction Co.
Heather Jantz, Treasurer MJE, LLC
Chris Rech, Immediate Past President A.M. Cohron & Son, Inc.
Trey Bowen, Director-at-Large Superior Bowen Asphalt Co.
Peter Clark, Aggregate & Light Type Division Bayer Construction
Shane Ham, Supplier/Service Division Foley Equipment Co., Inc.
Mike Hoffman, Grading & Railroads Division Alan’s Excavating, Inc.
Mark Lorenz, Utility Division Dondlinger & Sons
Dan Murphy, Director-at-Large Dustrol, Inc.
Travis Rose, Structures Division Bridges, Inc.
Mike Schirmer, Rigid Paving Division Koss Construction / Bettis Companies
Rocky Seybert, Flexible Paving Division Venture Corporation
Pat Short, Director-at-Large Pearson Construction
Steve Sloan, Supplier/Service Division Midwest Minerals
Michael White Executive Director mwhite@webuildkansas.com
Stephanie Mullholland Marketing & Membership Director stephanie@webuildkansas.com
Nancy Delgado Administrative Coordinator ndelgado@webuildkansas.com
The De Soto local road project has reached substantial completion, paving the way for Panasonic Energy's new battery plant and other economic development
President’s Message KCA scores big names for convention
Election 2024 What it means for transportation
Touchdown Kan–zzzza City!
Mitch Holthus to headline KCA convention
Road Usage Charge
Leading Kansas lawmakers give RUC thumbs down
Voters Show Support for Transportation
The Extra Mile A message from KCA’s Executive Director 3 4 6 10 18 20 22 24 26 28
Local ballot issues across the country earn support
Member Profile: Echo GPR Services
GPR saves local paving contractor from financial loss
DBE Litigation
Federal Highway Administration issues guidance
Parent Perceptions May Be Shifting
Kansas survey shows increased image of skilled trades
Member News
Acquisitions, new facility, new members
BY CHAD GIRARD, APAC KANSAS-SHEARS DIVISION KCA PRESIDENT
Our 102nd annual convention is just around the corner, and it should be another one not to miss.
We are excited to welcome Smith Center native Mitch Holthus – the Voice of The Kansas City Chiefs – as our keynote speaker. Holthus, like the founders of our companies, built his success on a strong Kansas work ethic. He got his start working at a nearby radio station in Phillipsburg, and today, is one of the most recognized play-byplay sportscasters in the country.
Holthus isn't the only heavy-hitter on the convention agenda. We will also welcome the top leaders in the Kansas Legislature for our Friday morning breakfast panel. Senate President Ty Masterson, Speaker of the House Dan Hawkins and House Transportation Chairman Shannon Francis will join us to talk about the future of transportation funding and how we might approach funding mechanisms for the state's next 10-year transportation plan.
Additionally, Ashley Foret Dees, one of the country's premiere work visa attorneys, will join us for a discussion on how contractors and suppliers may be able to use the H-2A agricultural and H-2B temporary visa programs to fill labor shortages and facilitate growth.
And, Rich Juliano, general counsel for American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) and former White House Liaison for the U.S. Department of Transportation, will be with us to talk about the latest changes in federal laws and regulations affecting our industry and how we can navigate them, including Build America, Buy America (BABA).
We're also adding a new event to the schedule this year. On Wednesday afternoon (January 29) from 4 to 5 p.m. the KCA board invites you to join us in the hotel bar – right before the Opening Night Reception – for a chance to talk with KCA's newest members and first-time conventiongoers. KCA membership is all about networking and forming relationships. Our goal is to make sure our newest members feel connected from Day 1, so please stop by and say hello!
While the KCA convention is known for the bigname speakers and the networking, it is much more than that. It is a time for catching up with old friends, making new friends, and rallying around our industry's common goals. That camaraderie – among partners and competitors alike – is what has sustained our industry through the good times and bad times for more than a century. I hope to see you there as we celebrate traditions and forge our future together.
39 NEW LEGISLATORS IN THE 2025 SESSION
This includes 14 new Senators and 25 new House members (9 of the 39 have previously served in the Legislature)
119 46 REPUBLICANS GREW THEIR SUPERMAJORITIES IN BOTH CHAMBERS
The Senate GOP grew from 29 to 31, and the House GOP grew from 85 to 88 for an overall pick-up of 5 seats by Republicans
Kansas elections followed the national trend with Republicans turning back Democratic challengers and retaining seats that were considered to be vulnerable in metro areas like Johnson County.
Kansas Senate
The State Senate will see 14 new faces in January. These changes are the result of 11 retirements, one incumbent beaten in the primary and two incumbents losing in the general election. Republicans will now hold 31 of 40 seats in the Senate, four more than the supermajority number of 27 that is needed to override gubernatorial vetoes.
KCA ENGAGED IN 153 RACES THIS ELECTION, WINNING 98% OF THOSE RACES
The Kansas House will see 25 new faces in January. Nineteen incumbents did not refile (with four of those moving to the Senate), three lost their primaries and three lost their general election races. The House partisan split will shift to 88 Republicans and 37 Democrats, with Republicans holding four more than the 84 votes necessary for a two-thirds supermajority.
Chairmen for the Legislature's transportation and
committees will remain the same while changes have been made to the committees through some new vice chair and ranking minority appointments.
Senate Republicans and House Democrats will see changes with the election of new leadership. In the Senate, Republicans elected two new leaders – Tim Shallenburger (Baxter Springs) as Vice President and Chase Blasi (Wichita) as Majority Leader. In the House, Democrats elected two new leaders to their top spots with Brandon Woodard (Lenexa) as Minority Leader and Mike Amyx (Lawrence) as Assistant Minority Leader.
January 29-31
Overland Park Sheraton
See the full convention schedule on pages 8-9 or online at WeBuildKansas.com/convention
Mitch Holthus – the voice of the Kansas City Chiefs for the past 30 years and native of Smith Center, Kansas – will headline KCA's 102nd Annual Convention.
Holthus coined the phrase “Chiefs Kingdom” and is known nationwide for his “Touchdown Kan–zzzza City!” signature call. He was on call for Super Bowls LIV, LVII and LVIII when the Chiefs won the second, third and fourth NFL national championships in Chiefs franchise history. Prior to that he had a 13-year stint as the Voice of the K-State Wildcats.
BAL LAW FIRM
A partner in Berry Appleman & Leiden’s Houston office, Ashley Foret Dees’ expertise is in helping small businesses facilitate their growth through H-2 visa programs. She is a graduate of Vanderbilt and earned her law degree from Louisiana State University.
ARTBA
Rich Juliano has worked decades advocating for the transportation industry, currently serving as general counsel at the American Road & Transportation Builders Association. Prior to joining ARTBA, he was White House Liaison for the U.S. Dept. of Transportation.
PRESIDENT OF THE KANSAS SENATE
Ty Masterson (R-Andover) is in his 20th year in the Legislature, having served three years in the Kansas House before being elected to the Kansas Senate in 2009. He is former chairman of the Senate Budget Committee and has led the Senate as President since 2020.
SPEAKER OF THE KANSAS HOUSE
Dan Hawkins (R-Wichita) is in his 6th term in the Kansas House. He chaired the Health Committee and served two terms as Majority Leader before being elected Speaker of the House in 2023. Hawkins owns and operates an insurance agency that works with small businesses.
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29
9 to 11 a.m.
KDOT-Contractors-Railroad Meeting
1:30 to 3:30 p.m.
KDOT Pipe Committee Meeting
2 to 4 p.m.
KAPA Annual Meeting
3 to 4 p.m.
Supplier & Service Provider Meeting
4 to 5 p.m.
New Member Meet & Greet
Stop by to meet KCA’s newest members! If you’re new to KCA or new to the convention, join us to network and make new friends before the opening night event.
5 to 7 p.m.
Murphy Tractor Presents:
The Opening Night Bash!
Reception, Prizes & Bourbon Tasting
Help us kick off the convention with the opening night bash. Includes open bars, heavy appetizers, a premium bourbon & whiskey tasting, carnival games and prizes!
Sponsored by:
THURSDAY, JANUARY 30
7:30 to 9 a.m.
Breakfast with the Secretary
Secretary of Transportation Calvin Reed
Start the day off right with a hearty breakfast buffet followed by a Q&A with Kansas Secretary of Transportation Calvin Reed.
Sponsored by:
Break Station Sponsors:
9:15 to 10:15 a.m.
Addressing Labor Shortages With Temporary Seasonal Visas
Ashley Foret Dees, BAL
Today’s workforce shortages have challenged employers to identify additional labor markets. Find out what opportunities may exist through H-2A and H-2B seasonal visas. We’ll discuss timing, caps, worker recruitment, interfacing with agencies and immigrant options for H-2 workers as well as the ever-changing supplemental visa allotments for employers who don’t regularly file H-2As or H-2Bs.
10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
For Spouses: Brunch & Design Workshop
Join fellow KCA spouses and guests for brunch and a creative workshop at Red Door Home Store. Participants will work hands-on with Red Door’s talented team to learn design tips & tricks and create your own floral arrangement to take home. Transportation provided.
Sponsored by:
10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Knowing and Navigating the Latest in State & Federal Policy Changes
Rich Juliano, Michael White & Blaine Finch
From Build America, Buy America (BABA) to the Kansas Unemployment Insurance Act, recent changes at the state and federal level impact your business and publicly-funded infrastructure projects every day. Find out what’s new, what’s in the works and how to effectively manage these policies in your operation.
11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Touchdown Kan–zzzza City!
Keynote Lunch with Mitch Holthus
The Voice of the Kansas City Chiefs, Holthus coined the phrase “Chiefs Kingdom” and is known nationwide for his “Touchdown Kan–zzzza City!” signature call. He was on call for Super Bowls LIV, LVII and LVIII when the Chiefs won the second, third and fourth NFL national championships in Chiefs franchise history. Join Mitch for lunch and an inspiring keynote during this era of the Chiefs’ dynasty.
Sponsored by:
1 to 1:45 p.m.
Ice Cream Social
Sponsored by:
1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Division Meetings
Flexible Paving • Structures • Landscaping
2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
Division Meetings
Aggregate Production & Light Type • Rigid Paving Grading & Railroads • Utilities Infrastructure
3 to 4:30 p.m.
KCA Casino
Try your hand at craps, blackjack, poker and roulette. Initial stake and open bar provided. Then, use your winnings to bid on prizes.
Sponsored by:
4:30 to 10 p.m.
Foley Equipment Presents: Thursday Night Live!
Action Auction, Live Painter, Dinner & Live Concert
Bid on live and silent auction items, plus a chance to win the $10,000 cash raffle! Doors open at 4:30 p.m. The live auction with Gavel Roads Auctions begins at 5:30 p.m. Then, continue the fun and the networking with a chefprepared dinner, dessert bar and a live concert with Landrush. This high-energy, party band plays all the best classic rock, country & Top 40 hits from Bon Jovi & the Eagles to Lady Gaga & Little Big Town.
Sponsored by:
FRIDAY, JANUARY 31
8 to 9:30 a.m.
Breakfast Panel: The Future of Transportation Funding Electric vehicles, declining gas tax revenues, the increased cost of materials and aging infrastructure stand to impact transportation funding in the coming years. You won’t want to miss this candid conversation with legislative leaders – Senate President Ty Masterson, House Speaker Dan Hawkins and House Transportation Chairman Shannon Francis – where we’ll discuss the practical solutions and political realities of funding the state’s transportation needs over the next decade.
Sponsored by:
9:30 to 10 a.m.
KCA Awards
Following the panel, we’ll recognize this year’s award recipients, including our safety award winners, KDOTKCA partnering award winners, and recognition of outgoing board members.
10 to 10:45 a.m.
KDOT Update & KCA Business Meeting
Get the latest updates from KDOT on their project pipeline, alternative delivery and more followed by KCA’s annual business meeting. The business meeting will include updates on association operations, the election of KCA board members & officers, and voting on proposed bylaws amendments.
BY BRAD COOPER | SUNFLOWER STATE JOURNAL
Leading lawmakers bristled earlier this month at the idea of moving away from a fuel tax to a road tax based on how far Kansans drive.
The chairs of the House Appropriations Committee and Senate Ways and Means Committee cast doubt about a road-usage charge in response to a briefing they received from the state transportation department, which has been studying the topic.
Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed updated the Legislative Budget Committee Dec. 9 on the study, which stemmed from a 2019 report compiled by a task force made up of lawmakers and representatives of the transportation industry.
The 2019 report recommended investigating funding alternatives, including a fee based on vehicle miles traveled to help address the
increasing fuel efficiency of cars and trucks couple with the rise of electric vehicles. The results of the study, underway since 2021, will be presented to the Kansas Legislature next year.
“This study was really to understand people’s attitudes, what would it look like, how would people perceive it if we moved to something like a roadusage charge," Reed told the committee.
Nevertheless, lawmakers expressed reservations about moving to a different way of raising money to pay for maintaining the state’s road network.
“The mileage deal – I don’t think there’s anyone out there that I’ve talked to that thinks that’s even close to fair,” said Sen. Rick Billinger (R-Goodland), chair of the Senate Ways and Means Committee.
Billinger said he didn’t think the road-usage charge would be fair for the state’s agriculture industry, which has to travel long distances to move crops.
“When you start talking mileage ... to me it’s not a fair charge of agriculture,” he said. “That’s something that is not popular at all out there.”
Rep. Troy Waymaster (R-Bunker Hill), chair of House Appropriations, shared a similar view.
“I don’t particularly like that approach,” Waymaster said of the road-use tax.
“In the farming industry, you drive a lot of miles,” Waymaster said. “I don’t think that is the right approach in trying to supplement the loss in the motor fuels tax.”
Increases in vehicle fuel efficiency and wider use of electric vehicles raise questions about the long-term viability of fuel taxes as a means of funding transportation.
States across the country are studying new ways
At least 10 states have passed legislation to study what’s known as a road-usage charge.
The Kansas study involved more than 500 people, including 324 rural participants and 242 urban and suburban participants. Reed said the study asked participants to try out different technologies in their vehicle for collecting a road-usage charge and share their perceptions. They were asked if it infringed on their privacy and if it was a fair way to collect the tax. The state didn’t collect any personal information from the participants.
Reed said the study focused heavily on the agricultural sector. Reed told Billinger that transportation planners heard some of the same concerns that the senator articulated.
At the outset of the road-usage study back in 2021, state gas taxes made up about 21% of the revenues that pay for Kansas roads, with sale taxes comprising the largest part of the revenue pie at 38%. By 2045, transportation planners said at that time they expected state gas taxes to contribute to 11% of highway revenues with 60% coming from sales taxes.
Waymaster said a better option for preserving highway funding might be increasing the fee for electric vehicles, which is $100 annually for full electric vehicles and $50 per year for hybrids.
“We’re pretty low compared to other states,” Waymaster said. “Even in the Midwest region we’re pretty low ... We’re only going to see electric vehicles increase in production and sales so maybe that’s an avenue can possibly look at."
The federal gas tax, set on a per-gallon basis, hasn’t been raised since 1993, and the revenue it generates is insufficient to support the transportation programs authorized by Congress since 2008, the Congressional Research Service reported in 2016. The Kansas gas tax is 24 cents a gallon, and it was last raised in 2003.
In the last decade, a number of states started experimenting with collecting revenue directly from drivers based on their travel with the idea that motorists should pay based more on how much they travel than the fuel they buy. The University of Iowa’s Public Policy Center studied a mileage-based user charge a decade ago in which on-board computers with global positioning systems were installed in the vehicles to record mileage. The study involved 2,650 volunteer drivers in 12 locations throughout the country, each driving an average of 9,000 miles during the two-year study that ended in 2010.
The Iowa study, the first to examine road user charges on a national and multijurisdictional scale, found that 92.5% of all driven miles were successfully measured by both the GPS and the onboard diagnostics system.
Throughout the study, participants were given a series of questionnaires to evaluate how accepting they were of the move away from a fuel tax and the tradeoff between privacy and billing statements. At the start of the study, 41% of the volunteer drivers were somewhat or very positive about the idea of replacing the gas tax with a tax based on vehicle miles driven. By the end of the study, 70% had a positive view of shifting to a road-user charge.
Seven years ago, a study done in California found 73% believed that taxing by the mile was more
equitable than a gas tax. Further, the study found that 87% of participants found the pilot to be easy and 85% were overall satisfied with the pilot, and 91% expressed willingness to participate in another road charge pilot.
Seven years ago, Colorado concluded a study of road-usage charges involving about 150 volunteer participants. The study, which examined three different mileage reporting options, found that about a quarter of the participants thought it would either interfere with their privacy or penalize drivers who buy fuel-efficient vehicles.
About 62% of the Colorado study participants thought the road-usafe charge would not properly track mileage from anyone outside the state who use state highways. About 44% agreed that a road-user charge would affect all people in equally. Others who thought it would not affect all drivers thought rural residents would be disproportionally affected.
Minnesota also examined road-user charges with about 500 participants who used specialized Android smartphones with a preinstalled mileage fee application specifically designed for the pilot. The smartphones had to be in the vehicle, and they communicated with a device plugged into the on-board diagnostic port to verify the phone was in the correct vehicle. The phones used GPS to determine location and mileage and transmitted study information through the cellular network.
Researchers reported that drivers didn’t express fear about a lack of privacy because they already thought that they gave up their privacy to mobile phone service providers.
“Instead, participants worried that their data would be vulnerable to access by wrongdoers who would seek to misuse the information,” the
11 states currently have have Road Usage Programs or pilots in place
Source: ARTBA
study said. “They wanted reassurance that their data could be safely held by the state, such as in the form of a security certificate program.”
Oregon implemented the country’s first road-user charge system that is available on a voluntary basis in which drivers pay 1.8 cents per mile traveled. Oregon uses odometer readings with a plug-in device to collect the tax.
Drivers can choose between a device with no GPS that tallies charges for all miles driven or a device with GPS that tallies only miles within the state. Each vehicle’s mileage is sent to an account manager, who then bills the drivers.
Brad Cooper worked 26 years as a reporter before launching the Sunflower State Journal, which provides daily coverage of Kansas political and government news.
Brad started his journalism career at The Associated Press, working for newspapers in Greenville, S.C. and Shreveport, La., before moving to Kansas where he covered Johnson County local government, regional transportation and Statehouse news for The Kansas City Star.
To stay up-to-date on the latest legislative news, consider an email subscription to the Sunflower State Journal. Visit SunflowerStateJournal.com or email bradc25@sunflowerstatejournal.com for details.
Local government and business leaders, along with Kansas Secretary of Transportation Calvin Reed and Clarkson Construction Company, announced substantial completion of the De Soto Local Road Improvements Project in Johnson County with a Dec. 13 ribbon-cutting event. All lanes opened to traffic on Dec. 12.
• New curb & gutter for improved drainage and durability
During the 18-month construction period, the project converted more than four miles of two-lane pavement into a divided four-lane concrete roadway with curbs, gutters, bike lanes, sidewalks and lighting. The work area included West 103rd Street between Evening Star Road and the Lexington Avenue/K-10 interchange, and about one half mile of Astra Parkway (formerly Main Avenue) south from West 103rd Street.
• Bike lanes and sidewalks to support active transportation
• Enhanced lighting to improve visibility and safety
As part of the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE), the project was the first progressive design-build project undertaken by KDOT. It was delivered in partnership with the City of De Soto and Johnson County to provide the
transportation infrastructure improvements necessary to support Panasonic Energy's new electric vehicle battery manufacturing facility in De Soto.
"This project exemplifies the power of collaboration and teamwork. A heartfelt thank you to our incredible project team and every partner who brought this innovative vision to life," said Bill Clarkson, Jr., CEO of Clarkson Construction. "We were able to shorten the project timeline and ensure that all lanes were opened to traffic in time for Panasonic's grand opening next year."
Panasonic announced the selection of the De Soto site for its factory in July 2022. The factory is the largest economic development project to-date in Kansas history and has been a catalyst for rapid development in the area.
"Our team and our partners deserve immense credit for embracing innovation and understanding the impact of this work for one of the most transformational projects in our state’s history,” said Secretary Reed.
Clarkson's project team included (left to right): Jacob Padgett, Assistant Project Manager; Kate Sweeten, Communications Director; Trevor Fitch, Vice President-Project Delivery; Aaron Shimmel, Vice President-Preconstruction; Bill Clarkson, Jr., CEO; Kevin Kellerman, Senior Project Manager; Billy Clarkson, President; Rick Parrott, General Grading Superintendent; Chad Luedke, DesignBuild Coordinator; Anne Striplin, Project Site Assistant; Ron Hornick, Quality Manager; Bob Branson, Grading Superintendent; and (Not Pictured) Brad Pohlmeier, General Paving Superintendent.
Clarkson Construction Company
Advanced Erosion Solutions, LLC
BHC
Braun Intertec
Collins & Hermann, Inc.
Cooper Construction, LLC
CS Carey, Inc.
Global Earthwork + Underground
Hayes Drilling, Inc.
Heartland Traffic Services
IBC Traffic, Inc.
Kaw Valley Companies
LINC Professional LLC
Miller’s Pro-Cut
Realm Construction, Inc.
RSI
Schrimpf Landscaping
Sosaya Electrical Construction
Sunflower Paving
(Top photo) A view of West 103rd Street and Astra Parkway; (left) Getting started in the construction process; (above) the Dec. 13 ribbon cutting event marking all lanes open to traffic.
ARTBA
approved 77 percent of 370 transportation measures on state and local ballots throughout according to initial results compiled by Transportation Investment Advocacy Center measures will generate an estimated $41.4 and renewed funding for roads, bridges,
will be available immediately through agreements, while most will be generated through property, or other taxes collected gradually over as years.
funding measures appeared on ballots in states, with 23 states approving at least one local question.
Voters approved 77 percent of 370 transportation funding measures on state and local ballots throughout the country on election night this year, according to results compiled by ARTBA’s Transportation Investment Advocacy Center (TIAC). The measures will generate an estimated $41.4 billion in new and renewed funding for roads, bridges, trails, and rail.
for these ballot measures during one of the consequential national election cycles in modern that the issue of transportation investment transcend partisan politics,” said TIAC senior director of state funding policy Carolyn Kramer “Voters from all parties and geographic areas agree on the need to invest in our road, bridge, and infrastructure.”
Out
Some revenue will be available immediately through bond agreements, while most will be generated through sales, property, or other taxes collected gradually over as much as 30 years.
transportation investment continues to transcend partisan politics,” said TIAC senior director of state funding policy Carolyn Kramer Simons. “Voters from all parties and geographic areas agree on the need to invest in our road, bridge, and transit infrastructure.”
In Washington state, voters chose to keep the state’s carbon credit market, a portion of which is used for its transportation budget on projects to improve transit, electrify ferries, advance high-speed rail, and for initiatives to improve pedestrian safety.
state, voters chose to keep the state’s carbon credit market, a portion of which is used for its budget on projects to improve transit, electrify ferries, advance high-speed rail, and for initiatives pedestrian safety.
Transportation funding measures appeared on ballots in at least 25 states, with 23 states approving at least one statewide or local question.
California rejected a statewide measure that would have lowered the threshold required to pass local special taxes from 66.67 percent voter approval to 55 percent voter approval. This would have burden on counties, cities, and towns seeking revenue to maintain and improve roads, bridges, trails, transportation-related infrastructure.
local measures include:
“The support for these ballot measures during one of the most consequential national election cycles in modern history shows that the issue of
Voters in California rejected a statewide measure that would have lowered the threshold required to pass local bonds and special taxes from 66.67 percent voter approval to 55 percent voter approval. This would have eased the burden on counties, cities, and towns seeking revenue to maintain and improve roads, bridges, trails, and other transportation-related infrastructure.
nine counties in South Carolina renewed or enacted a local sales tax for transportation approving $11.7 billion in funding for roads, bridges, and transit over the next 25 years.
Tenn., voters invested $3.1 billion in the city’s transit system, sidewalks, and roads after voters overwhelmingly approved a half-cent sales tax increase.
Seattle, Wash. renewed a local property tax for a $1.55 billion investment in the city’s transportation infrastructure over eight years.
renewed a half-cent transportation sales
$14.9 billion for another 20 years; and
Other notable local measures:
counties in Georgia approved new or renewed are
• Four of nine counties in South Carolina renewed or enacted a local sales tax for transportation, approving $11.7 billion in funding for roads, bridges, and transit over the next 25 years.
nation in the number of local questions on approved 75 percent of 141 measures. While rating was below the state’s 10-year average of 1,200 measures since 2014.
transportation-related ballot measures has last decade. Since 2014, voters in 43 states nearly 3,000 state and local measures on
• Maricopa County, Ariz. renewed a halfcent transportation sales tax, which will generate $14.9 billion for another 20 years; and
• Three of seven counties in Georgia approved new or renewed local sales taxes that are partly or entirely used for transportation purposes.
• Maricopa County, Ariz. renewed a half-cent transportation sales tax, which will generate $14.9 billion for another 20 years; and
• Nashville, Tenn., voters invested $3.1 billion in the city’s transit system, sidewalks, and roads after voters overwhelmingly approved a half-cent sales tax increase.
still pending results. Final results will be certified over the next few weeks. transportationinvestment.org, for updates.
• Voters in Seattle, Wash. renewed a local property tax for a $1.55 billion investment in the city’s transportation infrastructure over eight years.
Ohio continues to lead the nation in the number of local questions on the ballot. Voters there approved 75 percent of 141 measures. While strong, this approval rating was below the state’s 10-year average of 87 percent approval of 1,200 measures.
• Three out of seven counties in Georgia approved new or renewed local sales taxes that are partly or entirely used for transportation purposes.
Ohio continues to lead the nation in the number of local questions on the ballot. Voters there approved 75 percent of 141 measures. While strong, this approval rating was below the state’s 10-year average of 87 percent approval of 1,200 measures since 2014.
Historical Trends
Nationally, support for transportation-related ballot measures has remained high over the last decade. Since 2014, voters in 43 states approved 84 percent of nearly 3,000 state and local measures on general election ballots.
Williams Diversified Management
What’s Next Twenty-two measures are still pending results. Final results will be certified over the next few weeks. Visit the TIAC website, transportationinvestment.org, for updates.
Nationally, support for transportation-related ballot measures has remained high over the last decade. Since 2014, voters in 43 states approved 84 percent of nearly 3,000 state and local measures on general election ballots.
What does Echo GPR do and what can be detected through GPR services?
Echo GPR provides Ground Penetrating Radar and Utility Locating/Mapping Services.
Ground Penetrating Radar services include concrete scanning for reinforcement and conduits for drilling and sawing, engineering investigations, locating utilities, voids underneath concrete, sinkholes, underground storage tanks for environmental Phase II ESAs, grave locates, water leak locating, road and bridge deck assessment in accordance with ASTM D6087, and general site investigations locating anomalies prior to performing geophysical investigations or other excavation activities.
What geographic areas do you serve?
MARK DESCHEPPER, President mark@echogpr.com
Predominately we service a 6-state region including Nebraska, Iowa, Oklahoma and Arkansas with Kansas and Missouri being the primary states we serve. However, our expertise in GPR
has required our services in approximately 40 states.
What led you to form the company?
Echo GPR was started in 2001 by Rick Norland, my father-in-law. He saw GPR at a demonstration at a Concrete Sawing and Drilling Association (CSDA) meeting back in 2000. He immediately recognized the value in what would become a standard tool in construction prior to sawing or drilling concrete. Rick wished for the company to be family-run and in 2007 I joined the company.
What’s the advantage for contractors and owners vs. traditional locating methods?
The main advantage is that GPR is capable of detecting anomalies that traditional locating methods cannot as easily detect. While GPR is not a replacement for standard locating methods, it is an additive tool to provide secondary locating or assist in locating non-conductive utilities.
After finishing a paving job, a local paving contractor working on the Dairy Farmers of America headquarters project in Kansas City, Kansas, was audited through physical testing. Several core drills were used to show that the amount of asphalt laid was not thick enough in certain areas. The contractor faced heavy fines and having to potentially replace entire sections of asphalt costing them tens of thousands of dollars. They were sure they placed enough and hired Echo GPR Services to scan the entire lot to determine asphalt thicknesses. Using the cored data, Echo calibrated the GPR to the asphalt and mapped out the entire parking lot. Using a statistical breakdown it was found that the contractor was in compliance and did not have to replace the lot. Echo saved the contractor a major financial loss on the project and assured the building owner they received what they had paid for.
Does this replace the need for 811 locating?
Absolutely NO! Echo GPR is a private utility locating firm, 811 services are public locates. A more generalized way of thinking about this is that 811 will mark out those utilities that are owned by the utility provider, and generally that means marking up to a meter or box. We step in after 811 has been completed and are able to mark out those services that are privately owned, essentially pick up where they are required to stop. This includes private electric services such as parking lot lights, water between the meter and the property, and in
some cases, we are asked to double check an 811 locate or provide a depth reading to a utility. 811 does not provide depth readings to the utility.
We can provide services for projects that range from scanning for a single core drill in concrete to avoid hitting a Post-Tension Cable, to providing utility locates on several acres of property. Most of our concrete projects entail scanning prior to core drilling or trench cutting operations and are done in less than half a day.
Good people helping good people, we've been forging a solid foundation for more than a century.
BY AMERICAN ROAD & TRANSPORTATION BUILDERS ASSOCIATION (ARTBA)
The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) released guidance Nov. 18 related to the MidAmerica Milling case, in which two industry plaintiffs are challenging the constitutionality of the Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) program.
In September, Kentucky Federal Judge Gregory Van Tatenhove issued a preliminary injunction prohibiting DBE goals from applying to projects involving the two plaintiffs. The judge still needs to consider the case's merits, but gave a strong indication he will rule the DBE program unconstitutional, which was a factor in his granting the injunction.
According to the new FHWA guidance, if either plaintiff (Mid-America Milling or Bagshaw
Trucking) expresses interest in bidding or quoting on an advertised federal-aid project, then the state transportation department (DOT) is to adjust the DBE goal for that project to zero percent. The guidance applies to all states in which one of the plaintiffs is working or has expressed interest in doing so. While FHWA lists 25 states in which the plaintiffs currently operate or plan to bid, the "0% DBE goal" requirement could extend to projects in any state identified by one of the plaintiffs.
Judge Van Tatenhove must still hear arguments from the parties and decide the case on its merits. The judge has many legal options should he rule for the plaintiffs, including invalidating the DBE program nationally or in his judicial circuit, or instructing the U.S. DOT to change it. ARTBA will report on these developments as they occur.
February 12
KCA Office | Topeka
Join us between 4-6 p.m. for heavy appetizers, an open bar and networking with Kansas legislators. The reception will also include recognition of Jerry Younger, managing director of KAPA-KRMCA, on his retirement after 38 years in the industry.
February 25-26
Drury Broadview Hotel | Wichita
Designed especially for superintendents and project managers, the partnering conference schedule will include sessions on project collaboration, presentation of the 2024 partnering awards, and networking with KDOT district leaders and consulting engineers. Hotel room reservations should be made before January 24 by calling 800-325-0720 and referencing room block number #10104317.
TRANSPORTATION DAY AT THE CAPITOL & LEGISLATIVE RECEPTION
March 12
KCA Office | Topeka
Hosted by Economic Lifelines, the day will bring city and county leaders, contractors and engineering firms together for sessions with the Legislature's transportation leaders and KDOT officials as well we a late afternoon reception with legislators.
Jerry Younger has announced plans to retire in February after a 38-year career in the industry.
Younger started working for KDOT in 1986. He served as a Civil Engineer in Road Design before being promoted to Squad Leader. In 1996, he took a position in Wichita as Field Engineering Administrator for District Five, and later returned to Topeka as Topeka Metro Engineer before being promoted to District One Engineer for northeast Kansas. In 2006, Younger was named Deputy Transportation Secretary and State Transportation Engineer. After a decade in that role, he went to KAPA-KRMCA where he has served as managing director of
years.
BY MATT RESNICK, HAWVER'S CAPITOL REPORT
parents reporting
their child went to technical school decreased slightly (47.1% compared to 48.9%), the percentage that chose they’d be very happy jumped to 28.7% from 17.1%. Likewise, the percentage that chose neutral declined to 19.6% from 25.3%, and the percentages that chose unhappy or very unhappy also dropped (to 3.3% and 1.3%, respectively). Most of the reasons why parents felt the way they did about technical college didn’t change significantly, although there were some gains in the percentage that felt attending a technical college will help my child gain the skills necessary for his/her career, which increased to 30% from 26.5%.
A growing number of parents across Kansas are in favor of their children attending technical colleges or gaining job skills through apprenticeships as opposed to obtaining bachelor’s degrees, according to a study presented to the Kansas State Board of Education.
Community colleges also received strong support, with a slight drop in the percentages of parents who chose happy (49.1% from 53.5%) but a much greater percentage who chose very happy (30.3% from 21.9%).
Kristin Brighton, who launched the HirePaths program that KCA is a founding sponsor of, presented the findings from a recently conducted “parent perception” survey. Brighton contrasted those results with a survey of Kansas parents by numerous K-12 school districts in 2019.
In the original 2019 study, we found that 62.7% of parents hope their child will attend a four-year college or university as their next step after high school. Our 2024 data shows that the percentage of parents who hope their child will go from high school directly to a bachelor’s degree has dropped to 51.7% from 62.7%.*
While the percentage who hope their child will choose a community college remained relatively flat at around 12%, the percentage who said they hope their child will attend a technical college jumped to 13% from 8%. Likewise, the percentage who said they hope their child would become an apprentice jumped to 5.8% from 3.5%
Some other highlights demonstrate perception changes since the 2019 survey. The percentage of parents who hope their child will earn a bachelor’s degree someday dropped significantly to 62.1% from 74.2%.
The most common reason parents chose community college is they hope their child will attend a community college then later transfer to a four-year college/ university. However, the percentage who chose this option decreased to 37.1% from 45.6%, which could show that fewer parents in 2024 see community college as a steppingstone to a fouryear university, and instead as the only training needed to start their career. We can also see this in the increase in the number of parents who said they see community college as a way to explore a career path he/she can grow into, which grew to 25.3% from 20.4%.
Parents also chose apprenticeships because they want their kids to be able to financially support themselves, with the percentage of respondents who chose this option increasing to 24.7% from 18.8%.
into (increasing to 39.5% from 35.6%).
of those surveyed said they would like to see their child enter an apprenticeship program — up 2.3% from the initial study. The percentage of parents who thought their child would enroll in a four-year university after high school dropped to 44% from 52%.
Parent attitudes about how they’d feel if their child enrolled in a four-year university were largely unchanged, although the number decreased enough to require changing the headline from “Almost 90% of parents would be pleased” to “Nearly 85%.”
“The business community was really feeling like we needed different skills in our next generation of workers in order to have a successful Kansas economy,” Brighton said.
When asked what they think their child would choose if asked about their plans after high school, the number of parents who chose I plan to enroll in a four-year college or university after high school dropped to 44.5% from 52.2%. All other alternatives — from not sure through I plan to work as an apprentice for a period of time to learn a skilled trade — increased, except the percentage who said they plan to enlist in the military which stayed about the same (2.2%).
*Note: Survey respondents were asked to answer the questions specifically about their oldest child age 18 or younger on the day the survey was taken.
Brighton said the Department of Education and other state agencies have made noticeable strides in revamping career and technical education programs in K-12 school districts, but not enough has been done to get the word out to parents.
“If we don’t get tuned into all these new opportunities – and change the public perception that the only way to be successful is to have a fouryear college degree – then all of these new efforts are never going to be successful,” Brighton told the state board.
When asked how they’d feel if their child chose to learn a skilled trade through an apprenticeship, a much larger percentage of parents chose they’d be happy (40.1% compared to 35.5%) or very happy (18.3% compared to 8.8%).
We also saw a drop in the percentage of parents who feel their child needs a bachelor’s degree to be successful, to 18.8% from 24.4%.
The survey asked parents a set of questions related to postsecondary plans and how they would define success for their eldest child, age 18 or under. The results showed shifting perceptions related to postsecondary plans in the five years since the first survey. For instance, the number of parents hopeful their child would go straight from high school to a four-year bachelor’s degree program dropped to roughly 51% from the 62% who favored their child pursuing a four-year degree in 2019.
Why are parents interested in apprenticeships for their children? The top reason parents said they hope their child would become an apprentice was to explore a career path he/she could grow
We also saw decreases in percentages of parents who chose neutral, unhappy or very unhappy
“That’s a very significant change,” Brighton said.
We see encouraging increases in parent perceptions about apprenticeships. When asked how they’d feel if their child chose to learn a skilled trade through an apprenticeship, a much larger percentage of parents chose they’d be happy (40.1% compared to 35.5%) or very happy (18.3% compared to 8.8%).
We also saw decreases in percentages of parents who chose neutral, unhappy or very unhappy.
Why are parents interested in apprenticeships for their children? The top reason parents said they hope their child would become an apprentice was to explore a career path he/she could grow into (increasing to 39.5% from 35.6%). Parents also chose apprenticeships because they want their kids to be able to financially support themselves, with the percentage of respondents who chose this option increasing to 24.7% from 18.8%.
The number of respondents reporting they would be “very happy” to see their child attend technical college rose to 28.7% from 17.1%. Additionally, 5.5%
We see encouraging increases in parent perceptions about apprenticeships.
Overall, the 2024 study concluded that parents have developed a more positive perception of apprenticeships and technical training — as well as cultivated positive views of skilled trade careers.
We also saw a drop in the percentage of parents who feel their child needs a bachelor’s degree to be successful, to 18.8% from 24.4%.
HirePaths is a statewide marketing initiative aimed at helping parents navigate career exploration with their children and increase awareness of high-demand careers like construction.
Some other highlights demonstrate perception changes since the 2019 survey. The percentage of parents who hope their child will earn a bachelor’s degree someday dropped significantly to 62.1% from 74.2%.
3
CONSTRUCTION WAS ONE OF 5 HIGH-DEMAND CAREERS THAT SAW A HIGHER POSITIVE PERCEPTION AMONG PARENTS SINCE 2019
remained relatively flat at around 12%, the percentage who said they hope their child will attend a technical college jumped to 13% from 8%. Likewise, the percentage who said they hope their child would become an apprentice jumped to 5.8% from 3.5%.
child will choose a community college
Jerry Beachner, longtime Kansas bridge and highway construction contractor, passed away Nov. 2 at his home in St. Paul. He was 86.
Jerry and his brothers founded Beachner Construction Company in 1960. In their early years, their projects included helping with construction of the original U.S. Federal Highway System in Kansas. Jerry oversaw the road and bridgebuilding division of the company. He also served on the KCA board and the board of the Associated General Contractors of America.
Kevin Shelton, owner and president of C-Hawkk Construction Inc., has announced the company's partnership with Highway Partners Inc. C-Hawkk, based in Eudora, is a family-owned business formed in 1989. They specialize in traffic control and pavement markings.
“Partnering and growing with Highway Partners Inc. represents a significant step forward in our mission to sustainably grow and deliver the highest quality products and services to our clients,” said Shelton. “This alliance not only
reinforces our commitment to excellence but also positions C-Hawkk as a leader in the industry for future generations.”
J&R Sand Co., based in Liberal, has been purchased by Legacy Infrastructure Group. The company will operate as J&R Constructors Group LLC. Eric Jones is president.
J&R Sand was owned and operated by Todd Carlile. Carlile has been active in the KCA on the board and PAC Committee since 1984, and is a past president of the association. Trey Bowen is CEO of Legacy Infrastructure Group, which also owns Superior Bowen Asphalt in Kansas City. Bowen currently serves on the KCA board.
Utility infrastructure and excavating work Topeka, KS | (785) 207-5581 www.fitexc.com
Brian Thompson - bthompson@fitexc.com
Kory James - kjames@fitexc.com
Brandon Ramirez - bramirez@fitexc.com
In Aaron's memory, contributions may be made for playground, football field and other exterior improvements to:
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic School
645 N. 119th St. W. Wichita, KS 67235
Aaron Snook died Dec. 14 in a hunting accident. He was 41 years old. Aaron was owner and president of Seeders, Inc. in Wichita, and was involved in other investments and companies. He was an active member of KCA.
"Aaron was a big man who lived a big life. His presence was felt by all who knew him, whether through family, church, business, or the community," read his obituary. "Fun loving, kindhearted, devoted family man, a friend to many and a stranger to none."
He is survived by his wife, Meagan, and their three children, Levi, Elliotte, and Logan; his parents Linda (Joe) Davison and Jim (Kim) Snook; his brother Chris Snook with Bob Bergkamp Construction and his wife Donna; his sister Anna Kenney and her husband Aaron; and a large extended family. He was a member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church and was involved in many other causes in the community. He enjoyed fishing, traveling, attending KSU football games, and snow skiing with family.
M CON LLC
Underground utility construction and earthwork Wathena, KS | (785) 989-4550 www.mconunderground.com
Tyler Miller - tyler@mconunderground.com
D&D Equipment Rental
Sales & leasing of new and used equipment
Wichita, KS | (316)522-6272
www.danddrents.com
Rob Duling - rob@danddrents.com
Renaissance Financial Investments, planning & insurance
Overland Park, KS | (913) 344-7717 www.rfc.com
Wyatt Hoffman - wyatt.hoffman@rfc.com
Foley Equipment is adding a new facility in Kansas City dedicated to machine rebuilds. Foley has been the Caterpillar dealer for Kansas and Northwestern Missouri for more than 80 years.
“The Cat Certified Rebuild Program returns machines to like-new condition with full warranty and other benefits like upgraded electronics and features, allowing customers to maximize the value of their Cat equipment,” said Matt McNett, Vice President of Service and Power Solutions for Foley Equipment.
The Kansas Contractors Association will hold its annual meeting on Friday, January 31 at 10:30 a.m. in the Cottonwood Ballroom at the Overland Park Sheraton.
BY MICHAEL WHITE KCA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Our entire KCA family was shaken this month with the unexpected loss of one of our own – Aaron Snook. Aaron, owner and president of Seeders, Inc. in Wichita, died Dec. 14 in a hunting accident.
He, his brother Chris, and the Snook family are long-time members of our association. When I came to KCA in 2017, the Snooks were quick to welcome me and lend a hand. Aaron and I connected over our shared love of K-State. But, that wasn't unique for Aaron.
big our KCA family really is and how interconnected we are. When one of us feels a loss, the entire industry feels it.
This year we've felt, and continue to feel, the loss we had in June of Dirk Riniker, president of Ebert Construction in Wamego; and the loss in November of Jerry Beachner, who founded Beachner Construction in St. Paul with his brothers.
He had a tremendous ability to connect with people. As his obituary read, he was "a friend to many and a stranger to none." Aaron's life was cut much too short, but he left behind some unforgettable lessons on the importance of living life fully and loving the people around us.
The loss of Aaron, and the loss of other long-time members of our KCA family, hits especially hard this time of year. It is a powerful reminder of how
They leave behind big shoes to fill, that's for sure. But, families who stick together through thick and thin have incredible strength as individuals and as a whole.
In honor of Aaron, Dirk and Jerry and the other KCA family members who have gone before them, may we hug our loved ones a little longer at the holidays this year, and may we pull together - like we always have - to help our KCA family members weather the difficult times.
With 31 locations offering a full complement of equipment, parts inventory, service technicians and field service capabilities - We are ready to serve you!
800 SW Jackson, Suite 100
Topeka, Kansas 66612
WeBuildKansas.com
Mitch Holthus, the Voice of the Kansas City Chiefs, will give the keynote at KCA's 2025 convention. Holthus coined the phrase “Chiefs Kingdom” and is known nationwide for his “Touchdown Kan–zzzza City!” signature call.
