December 17, 2019
#1 President's Message: Thanks for Making 2019 a HUGE Success!
It is a tremendous honor to be part of such a wonderful organization that works tirelessly to support an industry that makes such an important contribution to our community.

As we wrap up the year at SAHBA, we are able to reflect on many accomplishments in several key areas: reducing government fees and regulations, training our future workforce and creating opportunities for increased member-to-member business. None of this would be possible without your support. Our effectiveness depends on members like you.

Please take a moment to review the full 2019 List of Accomplishments.

Sincerely,
David Godlewski, SAHBA President 
#2 SAHBA Secures Improvement to Tucson Release of Assurances Process
Responding to builder member concerns, SAHBA engaged City staff to improve the Assurance process. The recently approved change will remove lot specific sidewalks as an assurable item. This policy improvement is intended to remove what has been a major area of delay in receiving release of assurances. This change will improve a builders ability to close homes on schedule while also relieving City staff of excessive administrative requirements.

All other assurance conditions will still need to be met or completed. Builders desiring to take advantage of this change on existing subdivisions will need to process a new substitute agreement with the lot specific sidewalks removed so that the older agreement is no longer in place.

While City staff updates the corresponding internal docs, Trust Officers can proceed with submitting substitute agreements which would remove the lot-specific sidewalks as an assurable item.

You can read the Director’s Memorandum here. 
#3 Calling ALL Members...Join Us For This "Can't Miss Event"
The SAHBA Denim & Diamonds Annual Awards Reception is just around the corner. Reserve your spot now and take advantage of EARLY BIRD pricing!

Tickets are $50 through January 5th.

The event includes an awards ceremony, food & drinks, live music by Caiden Brewer, a photo booth and more!

And be sure to wear your best blue jeans & bling!
#4 Update on Key Legal Issues
TEP Rate Case - As previously reported, SAHBA is an intervenor in the pending TEP Rate Case. We are seeking to: ensure no adverse changes to Line Extension Policies, address issues of timeliness of subdivision design approval and emphasize our interest in maintaining a close working rela tionship with the company. SAHBA recently filed surrebuttal testimony. Evidentiary hearings will begin next month.
 
Marana Litigation – SAHBA’s lawsuit against the Town regarding improper sewer fees continues. Last week, both sides presented oral arguments. We expect a ruling by the end of February.
 
Desert Tortoise – In partnership with NAHB and HBACA, SAHBA is tracking the suit filed in late summer by environmental groups alleging the USFWS erred in its decision to not list the Desert Tortoise. We are considering whether intervention is warranted. The habitat for the tortoise is millions of acres including large portions of Pima, Pinal and Maricopa counties. A listing would impose significant hardships and restrict development.
 
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact David Godlewski at 795-5114. 
#5 Lunch & Learn - "Getting Paid for Your Work"
Don't delay and register NOW for the last Lunch & Learn of the year, presented by ACT & SAHBA.

This month's topic will cover "Getting Paid for Your Work" and how it applies to your business.

Thursday, December 19
12:00pm-1:00pm
SAHBA Board Room
Guest Speaker - Neal Eckel of Farhang & Medcoff.

Cost is $15. Lunch included.
Other News...
Thank you to everyone who joined us at the SAHBA Holiday Open House and made a donation to our Toys for Tots toy drive!
Mark Your Calendars
Dec 17 - Tech Committee Mtg

Dec 19 - Legal Lunch & Learn

More Member Benefits
Put your SAHBA membership to work TODAY and sign up for exclusive discounts with SAHBA partner NPP (National Purchasing Partners). Enjoy money-saving discounts that benefit your business, your employees, and your family!

Discount offers include - Verizon wireless, Priceline, Sherwin-Williams, Airgas, Office Depot, Skechers, PODS and many more! It’s FREE to members and signup is easy.
Shopping for a competitive Workers’ Compensation policy? SAHBA members can save up to 25% on Workers’ Compensation needs AND receive a membership in the AZ Chapter of the National Safety Council. Call today - quotes are FREE!
Southern Arizona Home Builders Association | Email us! | 520-795-5114 |