BUILD-PAConnection - 07/10/2009

July 10, 2009

Steve Cates
2009 BUILD-PAC Chairman


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Chairman's Letter

The 2009 – 2010 election cycle is well underway and with it BUILD-PACs efforts in fundraising and donor expansion.

Dear BUILD-PAC Contributors,

The 2009 – 2010 election cycle is well underway and so are BUILD-PAC's efforts in fundraising and donor expansion.

I would like to take the time to thank those of you who have picked up the phone, talked with members at meetings, or hosted BUILD-PAC events in your area. Thanks to efforts such as these BUILD-PAC is forging ahead in these uncertain times to represent our industry on Capitol Hill and make sure each of us is heard.

At this time I would like to announce an exciting fundraising opportunity that will be taking place at the 2009 Fall Board of Directors meeting this year in Chicago. While in Chicago all members of NAHB will be given an opportunity to attend one of BUILD-PAC’s club events. Members will be given a choice to attend the 2009 Capitol Club event that will be taking place at Wrigley Field Rooftop or the 2009 Gold Key Club and Platinum Cub cruise of Chicago aboard the Odyssey. Please read on for further information.

Please know that I am looking forward to seeing each of you at the 2009 Fall Board of Directors Meeting in Chicago!

Thank you,

Steve Cates

2009 BUILD-PAC Chair

House Votes to Preempt National Building Code Process

By a vote of 219 to 212, the House on June 26 narrowly approved climate change legislation that would establish a “cap and trade” market for buying and selling pollution allowances and create mandatory national energy code requirements for all homes and buildings.

Prior to consideration of the American Clean Energy and Security Act, NAHB sent a letter to House members expressing concern that federal preemption of the states’ rights to determine building codes would needlessly increase the cost of housing in America and fail to achieve its aim by focusing solely on new homes.

“We are troubled that this legislation contains provisions that will establish a national energy efficiency code, impair housing affordability for lower-income families, undermine green building and sustainability programs for new construction and increase already onerous federal permitting requirements,” the letter said. “Because of its negative impact on housing, NAHB has designated opposition to H.R. 2454 as a key vote.”

The bill number was subsequently changed to H.R. 2998.

By only targeting new homes and failing to pursue an integrated strategy that addresses existing homes, equipment efficiency and consumer behavior, the bill will fall far short of its mark of increasing energy efficiency in the residential sector, according to NAHB Chairman Joe Robson.

“The hard truth is that we can’t build our way out of this problem,” said Robson. “We need to look at our utilities and how they transmit power. We need to make our existing housing stock more energy-efficient. We need to look at how we can reduce our ‘plug load’ — home appliances, televisions and computers — and make these products more energy-efficient. The bill’s focus on new home construction won’t get us far at all.”

The sweeping legislation would require new homes to be 30% more energy-efficient than mandated in the 2006 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC). By Jan. 1, 2014, the target would rise to 50% above the 2006 IECC. Between years 2017 and 2029, the code target increases 5% every three years until it reaches 75% over the 2006 IECC by 2029.

“That’s simply too far, too fast,” Robson said. “The market is not geared up to supply the necessary materials and equipment, and that’s going to drive up costs. The result will be fewer working-class families in these new energy-efficient homes. They’ll be relegated to older, less efficient housing stock and face ever higher utility bills.”

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homes are responsible for about 21% of the energy consumed each year. “Forcing more regulation on a fraction of those homes just won’t move the needle,” Robson said.

States that fail to certify within one year after the date of enactment that they have adopted and will enforce the new code targets will be subject to federal penalties for non-compliance by the U.S. Department of Energy. At that point, if the DOE doesn't have a certification from a state that its code meets the targets, then the national energy code automatically becomes the applicable building code for that state or locality.

“The mandates in H.R. 2998 will undercut the new programs created in the GREEN Act, which are explicitly designed to preserve housing affordability while delivering sustainability through incentives for green building and energy efficiency,” said Robson.

Usurping states’ rights to determine appropriate building efficiency for homes and buildings within their jurisdiction would result in ineffective application of efficiency standards to address varying climate zones and specific needs, he added.

H.R. 2998 would also create the Natural Resources Adaptation Strategy, which directs federal agencies with jurisdiction over natural resources — including agencies considering permits under the Clean Water Act, the Clean Air Act, the Endangered Species Act and other environmental laws — to consider the "impacts of climate change and ocean acidification on natural resources.”

This new requirement would raise significant obstacles in the federal permitting process, said Robson.

There is no companion climate bill in the Senate, and it is uncertain when that chamber will move forward with its energy legislation, which differs markedly from the House bill. NAHB will continue to monitor the situation closely and work to derail the onerous provisions in H.R. 2998 as the legislative process advances.

To read the legislation, click here and enter H.R. 2998 in the box at the center of the page.

For more information, e-mail Elizabeth Odina at NAHB, or call her at 800-368-5242 x8570.

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Congratulations to Ann Garvey, BUILD-PAC Associate Chair

BUILD-PAC Chair, Steve Cates, would like to announce the formation of BUILD-PAC’s Associate Chair position. On behalf of the PAC Officers and Club Chairs, we are pleased to have Ann Garvey serve in this Chair position and we look forward to working with her this year. The Associate Chair position is a newly created position that will join the fundraising team of Elizabeth Cubler (Capitol Club Chair), John Miranda (Platinum Club Chair), and Sandra Steele (Gold Key and Century Club Chair). The main responsibility of this position will be to coordinate fundraising campaigns with the Associate members and achieve established fundraising goals for 2009. The Associate members play a critical role in the overall success of BUILD-PAC and we hope to continue strengthening this relationship by this appointment.

Congratulations to Ann Garvey!

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State Fundraising

BUILD-PAC State Goals

BUILD-PAC is well underway in its 2009-2010 election cycle fundraising. With 435 seats in the House of Representatives as well as one-third of the Senate, it is crucial that BUILD-PAC has the ability to fight for you. The best way to guarantee that your voice will be heard on Election Day is to ensure that your state reaches its fundraising goal. Every election cycle, BUILD-PAC establishes a two-year goal for states based on building permits, membership, and overall fundraising goal. For BUILD-PAC to be successful we need each state to reach its goal.

Most states tend to exceed their goal in the second year of the election cycle. However, we have two HBAs leading the way in fundraising this year – North Dakota and Greater Kansas City HBA – have already exceeded their goal. BUILD-PAC would like to congratulate both HBAs and thank them for their hard work and dedication to fundraising for BUILD-PAC.

Please check below to see how your state is doing.

STATE

2009 Goal

Raised YTD

Alabama

$61,835

$21,216

Alaska

$4,443

$8,665

Arizona

$31,339

$5,063.32

Arkansas

$15,650

$4,550

California

$81,044

$34,086

Colorado

$31,534

$1,300

Connecticut

$10,173

$8,281.66

Delaware

$4,857

$8,433

Florida

$121,384

$16,866.66

Georgia

$66,340

$9,260

Hawaii

$6,523

$1,750

Idaho

$13,910

$7,650

Illinois

$35,530

$10,653

Indiana

$38,115

$8,791

Iowa

$17,554

$16,680

Kansas

$16,634

$28,268

Kentucky

$42,431

$9,505

Louisiana

$40,117

$9,015

Maine

$4,324

$600

Maryland

$22,310

$13,641

Massachusetts

$16,221

$6,400

Michigan

$41,403

$10,711

Minnesota

$27,405

$8,230

Mississippi

$23,815

$9,600

Missouri

$15,231

$7,065

Montana

$12,791

$7,350

Nebraska

$13,085

$10,733

Nevada

$22,199

$15,966

New Hampshire

$6,829

$4,200

New Jersey

$24,149

$15,278

New Mexico

$18,026

$3,430

New York

$64,576

$9,948

North Carolina

$128,969

$28,851

North Dakota

$11,017

$24,360

Ohio

$46,646

$17,616

Oklahoma

$21,983

$23,255

Oregon

$29,407

$5,835

Pennsylvania

$59,762

$16,103

Rhode Island

$6,380

$3,175

South Carolina

$46,710

$11,370

South Dakota

$11,349

$7,106

Tennessee

$42,372

$31,313

Texas

$176,536

$57,668

Utah

$21,577

$2,915

Vermont

$3,674

$5,365

Virginia

$47,074

$21,200

Washington

$80,208

$17,960

West Virginia

$6,093

$3,640

Wisconsin

$47,199

$27,900

Wyoming

$3,248

$1000

BUILD-PAC Across the Country

Throughout the year members have been working hard advocating for BUILD-PAC and hosting fundraisers in their states. BUILD-PAC would like to recognize the following states that have hosted events or have planed one for later this year

BUILD-PAC Would like to thank the following HBAs who have already held fundraisers in 2009:

Kansas City HBA

Nebraska HBA

Oklahoma HBA

Indiana HBA

Baton Rouge HBA

Mississippi HBA

Wisconsin HBA

Montana HBA

North Dakota

BUILD-PAC would like to thank the following HBAs for agreeing to hold fundraiser in 2009:

Arkansas HBA

Connecticut HBA

Bismarck HBA

Nebraska HBA

Nevada HBA

Virginia HBA

Kansas HBA

Vermont HBA

Texas HBA

Alaska HBA

Idaho HBA

BUILD-PAC Event Spotlight: Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City

BUILD-PAC would like to recognize the Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City for hosting an exceptional fundraiser on behalf of BUILD-PAC on April 9^th. Members enjoyed hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and great company as they learned about the significant impact BUILD-PAC has on the home building industry.

Thanks to the hard work of the Kansas City HBA BUILD-PAC Fundraising Committee this event was made possible. The committee worked tirelessly making phone calls, and securing pledges and recruiting new members, This event raised over $30,000 for BUILD-PAC making it one of our most successfull events of the year thus far.

BUILD-PAC would also like to thank Don and Linda Julian for generously opening up their home to BUILD-PAC and hosting the event at their residence.

Joint Fundrasing Pilot Program

This summer, with the guidance of Chairman Robson, BUILD-PAC is launching a special Joint Fundraising pilot program. Five states have been selected for this pilot program whereby BUILD-PAC and the HBA/PAC will partner together to host a fundraising event and share 50/50 in the proceeds. This pilot program has received widespread support by the HBA leadership and we are confident our efforts will yield new contributors and new money to BUILD-PAC as well as for the state PAC.

If you are interesting in participating in the Joint Fundraising pilot program please contact BUILD-PAC staff at BUILD-PAC@nahb.com or call (800) 368-5242.

Did you know?

The different ways that BUILD-PAC staff can help?

BUILD-PAC staff is here to support you with your fundraising needs. If you are interested in hosting an event on behalf of BUILD-PAC, staff is here to help. Throughout the years many states have hosted events on behalf of BUILD-PAC and staff can share information on how states have successfully held events. Staff can help with all aspects of fundraising as you plan your event from helping to put a fundraising committee together, to providing call sheets, sending out invitations, and making sure all fundraising activities are legal. No task is to big or to small so please do not hesitate to contact BUILD-PAC staff! [return to top]

Major Donor Clubs

BUILD-PAC Club Benefits at Fall Board

Gold Key and Platinum Club members

Gold Key Club and Platinum Club member will be recognized at the 2009 Fall Board of Directors Meeting with a cruise of Chicago Skyline aboard the Odyssey. Please join us for cocktails, dinner and dancing while taking in the breathtaking view of Chicago’s nighttime skyline aboard the luxurious Odyssey.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enjoy a private tour of one of America’s most amazing cities voted “Best Skyline” by Travel and Leisure” magazine.

Please RSVP online at the time of Fall Board registration.

Date: October 1^st, 2009

Location: Odyssey Cruise, Navy Pier

Time: Cruise will be begin boarding at 6:00pm and depart promptly at 7:00pm

Capitol Club Members

Capitol Club Member will be recognized at the 2009 Fall Board Capitol Club Event. This Fall’s event will be held at the all new Wrigley Field Roof Top Club across the street from historic Wrigley Field where we will watch the Chicago Cubs battle the Pittsburgh Pirates. You will have the opportunity to watch the game from the roof top or within the all new climate controlled VIP Suite. We look forwarding to seeing you at what we know will be a fantastic event.

Please RSVP online at the time of Fall Board registration

Date: Thursday October 1^st

Location: Wrigley Field Roof Top Club 3617 N. Sheffield Avenue

Time: The club will open one hour prior to game time at 6:00 pm

Captiol Club Sedan Service

Capitol Club members will enjoy sedan service to and from the airport while attending the 2009 Fall Board of Directors Meeting in Chicago, ill. More information to follow.

Club Payment Schedule

Below are the remaining dates for 2009 club invoicing and auto charge for your reference:

Invoicing

Capitol Club Members

Annual Members

Q3 annual invoices will be mailed July 8^th. These will be due September 1^st

Tri Annual Members

3^rd Tri Annual payments will be mailed August 3^rd. These will be due September 1^st

Platinum and Gold Key Club Members

Annual and Quarterly Members

Q4 invoices will be mailed October 7^th. These will be due November 6^th

Auto Charge

Capitol Club Members

Annual Members

Q3 Annual Auto Charge will be July 13^th

Tri Annual Members

2^nd Tri Annual auto charge will be June 15^th

3^rd Tri Annual auto charge will be August 10^th

Platinum and Gold Key Club Members

Annual and Quarterly Members

Q3 Auto Charge will be July 13^th

Q4 Auto Charge will be October 13^th

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2009 Fall Board Fundraisers

BUILD-PAC is proud to announce that it will be hosting two fundraisers on Thursday, October 1^st, while NAHB is in Chicago. hosting its annual Fall Board of Directors meeting.

NAHB members will be given the opportunity to enjoy an exciting evening of baseball as the Chicago Cubs battle the Pittsburgh Pirates or dinner and dancing while viewing Chicago aboard the magnificent Odyssey.

Members who attained the event at Wrigley Field Rooftops will enjoy the game at the new luxurious rooftop club, directly across the street from historic Wrigley Field. The game will be viewed from the roof top seats, which USA Today called one of the best places in America to watch a ballgame, or from the comfort of the all new climate controlled VIP suite.

Members who attained the Odyssey will be treated to cocktails, dinner and dancing while taking in the breathtaking view of Chicago’s nighttime skyline aboard the lavish Odyssey Cruise.