united contractors magazine - march 2014
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March 2014: Construction, Politics & Money--Funding for Future WorkTRANSCRIPT
MARCH 2014 | ISSUE 3 /VOLUME 220W W W . U N I T E D C O N T R A C T O R S . O R G
Resolve to Get Involved:Take Action on IndustryPolitical Issues p.20
Celebrating L.I.V.E.–Leadership, Innovation,Vision & Excellence p.14
The Funding Droughtfor CaliforniaInfrastructure
ExtremeConditions
Ahead
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United Contractors Magazine (ISSN: 2166-3777) is published monthly, except December, by United Contractors, 17 Crow Canyon Court, Suite 100, San Ramon, CA 94583. Editorial comments, letters, and article submissions are welcomed and encouraged. Correspondence should be directed to the United Contractors office at the above address, by phone at (925) 855-7900, by e-mail at [email protected] or by fax at (925) 855-7909. Reproduction of editorial material in this issue is permitted if accompanied by proper source credit. Periodicals postage paid at San Ramon, CA and other offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to: United Contractors Magazine, 17 Crow Canyon Court, Suite 100, San Ramon, CA 94583. © 2014 Published in the U.S.A.
2014 UNITED CONTRACTORS BOARD OFFICERS
President ...............................................Kevin Albanese
Vice President/President-Elect ..............Bruce Daseking
Secretary/Treasurer ..............................Bruce Daseking
Secretary/Treasurer-Elect...................Donna Rehrmann
contentsUNITED CONTRACTORS BOARD OF DIRECTORSKevin Albanese, Joseph J. Albanese, Inc.; Jim Alvey, Appian Engineering, Inc.; Sue Capriola, Silverado Contractors, Inc.; Bruce Daseking, McGuire and Hester; Rich Gates, DeSilva Gates Construction; Michael Ghilotti, Ghilotti Bros., Inc.; Brett Kincaid, O’Grady Paving, Inc.; Thomas Lum, Peterson CAT; Christi Plum, P C & N Construction, Inc. Jeff Prevost, Lockton Companies, LLC; Bob Rahebi, Redgwick Construction Company; Donna Rehrmann, Stomper Company, Inc.; Kim Scruggs, Columbia Electric, Inc.; Hal Stober, Gordon N. Ball, Inc.
UNITED CONTRACTORS COMMITTEE CHAIRSAssociates: Jeff Prevost (Associate Director), Lockton Companies, LLC; Thomas Lum (Associate Director-Elect), Peterson CAT | Caltrans: Michael Ghilotti (Chairman), Ghilotti Bros., Inc. | Government Relations: Chris Young (Chairman), D.W. Young Construction Co., Inc. | Safety & Insurance | Scholarship: Paul Cianciarulo (Co-Chair), Granite Rock Company; Christi Plum (Co-Chair), P C & N Construction, Inc.
UNITED CONTRACTORS STAFFMark Breslin, Chief Executive Officer; Leslie Lord, Deputy Director; Kelly Montes, Executive Assistant; Drew Aversa, Business Development Manager Randy Ruby, Director of Labor Relations; Ruby Varnadore, Labor Contracts Manager; Lucia Sbarro, Labor Relations & Member Services Assistant; Steve Geney, Labor Negotiations Consultant; Shelbie Tieman, Director of Finance & Administration; Terese Pollock, Finance Assistant; Angelica Hobbs, Administrative Assistant; Stacy Anderson, Director Communications, Events & Education; Denise Ramirez, Online Services Manager; Joan O’Brien, Education Manager; Jenn Rogers, Senior Manager of Events; Marlo Fregulia, Event Assistant; Michelle Vejby, Publications Manager; Emily Cohen, Director of Government Relations; Kristina Knecht, Regulatory Affairs Manager; Kevin Pedrotti, Legislative Advocate; Tony Dorsa, CARB Consultant
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MARCH 2014 | ISSUE 3 /VOLUME 220W W W . U N I T E D C O N T R A C T O R S . O R G
Resolve to Get Involved:Take Action on IndustryPolitical Issues p.20
Celebrating L.I.V.E.–Leadership, Innovation,Vision & Excellence p.14
The Funding Droughtfor CaliforniaInfrastructure
ExtremeConditions
Ahead
6 UP Front Hey Dad, Can I Get a Couple Billion $$Off You for the Weekend?By Mark Breslin, UCON CEO
LABORLabor RelationshipsBy UCON Labor & Member Services Dept.
INSIDE the Capitol• State Budget Update• Resolve to Get InvolvedBy Emily Cohen, Director of Government Relations
MARCH 2014ISSUE 3, VOLUME 220
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14Membership L.I.V.E.Celebrating Leadership,Innovation, Vision &Excellence
More Inside:
www.unitedcontractors.org
22 WTF24 NEXT UP28 WE ARE UNITED CONTRACTORS30 SAFETY CORNER32 MEMBER NEWS34 LAST CALL
C O N N E C T W I T HU N I T E D C O N T R A C T O R S :
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well, that comes as a shock to them. They have built expectations around the resources.
If we are smart, we ask for something in return. Work for it. Strive for it. Give us a better reason than that… In the process try to get them to learn it is not an ATM relationship.
It is upon this analogy, I present to you a hypothesis— most of our industry acts like college freshmen when it comes to understanding and appreciating the public money our industry thrives on. Like our kids’ mistaken view of our endless resources, most of our industry does not pay attention to the public money that drives market opportunity until it is absent. Like the current pending drought, it takes a serious problem to get everyone’s attention.
Well junior, before I give you another $300 to go to Burning Man, we have to discuss a serious problem. And we need your undivided attention. The tap is running dry. The wallet is empty. Mr. Benjamin is taking a vacation from funding our industry.
In 2014, a number of crucial funding measures intersect around your interests and public resources. Caltrans budget is off by 75%, due to the expiration of Prop 1B which provided $20 billion for road highway infrastructure, with no significant additional money behind it. Federal reauthorization is iffy with a polarized Congress considering both Clean Water and Highway
By Mark Breslin,United Contractors CEO
If you have ever raised a teenager or college student, you know the drill. You can see it on their face. Or hear it in their tone of voice. It happens a split second before they ask you for money.
They sound like they love you more than the dog. They heap the syrup on. They give you the compelling reasons that would not stand up in small claims court. They get the cash. Almost every time.
They expect it. They figure you are an unending source of light, love and the Benjamins. And to ever deny them,
Hey Dad, Can I Get a Couple Billion $$ Off You for the Weekend?
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exceeds what we have done before. We need our UCON PAC (Political Action Committee) to be large and influential through the individual efforts from all members large and small. Doing without is simply not an option, and our ability to motivate our membership and the industry at large to respond is very important.
We, like that teen-in-need, have to do the work to get the funds. Mow the lawn. Clean out the shed. Attend the fundraiser. Contribute big to the PAC. Go to dinner with your lawmaker. Make an effort.
We are most likely to respond to the “ask” of our kids because we love them and only want the best for them. Thus, they are likely to succeed with their grubby little outstretched hands. But be under no illusion. Nobody in the industry “loves” us. Charm and personality? We’re a little short on that too. No, we are going to have to do the work. We are going to have to put in the effort. Entitled no more, though very deserving, our financial and market destiny is in our own hands. u
Reauthorization bills. Local tax measures are most likely, but polling looks challenging with a very financially fatigued public. Daddy says “sorry kid, looks like might have to do without.”
Thank God for the private market. Thank goodness for the mega jobs and the tech blow-up and the return of housing. But that is not a long term plan. The long term plan has UCON serving as the sharp end of the spear and you helping to hurl it forward.
In 2014 we are going to have to support measures and candidates that serve our industry at a level that
We, like that teen in-need, have to work to get the funds.... Contribute big to the PAC. Go to dinner with your lawmaker. Make an effort.... Entitled no more, though very deserving, our financial and market destiny is in our own hands.
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Labor RelationshipsUCON-NCDCL Summit
LABOR By UCON’s Labor & Member Services Department
United Contractors and the Northern California Laborers recently held our 2nd annual leadership and strategic planning session, attended by 21 UCON contractor members and labor staff, and 30 representatives from the Laborers leadership. Key items that were discussed included
Favorite Part of the Retreat?“The small group round table sessions—great opportunity to have candid discussions with labor counterparts.” — Kevin Albanese, Joseph J. Albanese, Inc.
non-union competition and organizing, training and workforce development, jurisdictional disputes, private work, and local/regional issues. We will keep our members informed of action items and ways to get involved. u
“Bowling with the union reps.—getting to know them. I think that there is a growing mutual respect. At the roundtable, we were able to discuss areas of mutual concern.” — Donna Stomper, Stomper Company, Inc.
The winning bowling team.
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San Diego, CA 8 / -North S.F. Bay Area, CA 800/321-5550South S.F. Bay Area, CA 877/246-4086
Sacramento, CA 800/548-0688Reno, NV 877/809-6492Las Vegas, NV 877/809-6493Houston, TX 866/247-9449
Los Angeles, CA 800/821-4478N. LA/Ventura, CA 877/246-4087Orange County, CA 800/772-8004San Brndno/Rvrsd, CA 877/246-4085
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halfpg7x4.75_4c_02.pdf 11/28/07 12:03:56 AM
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State Budget Update:Governor Brown’s Budget OffersLukewarm Transportation Budget
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2014-15 State Budget Proposal Overview: On January 9th, the Governor released his proposed budget for 2014-15. As expected, the budget proposal reflects a more optimistic revenue picture, which has yielded increased general fund revenue and an operating surplus for this next year. Overall, the Governor’s budget forecasts $108.7 billion in total available General Fund resources. This includes a $4.2 billion balance projected at the end of 2013-14 and $104.5 billion in budget year revenues. Governor Brown proposes $106.8 billion in General Fund expenditures, with $2.5 billion in total reserves,
including $967 million in the regular reserve and $1.6 billion in the Budget Stabilization Account.
Transportation Budget:CaltransThe Governor’s budget proposal repays $351 million in General Fund loans early, $337 million of which would
By Emily Cohen,Director of Government Relations
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M A R C H 2 0 1 4 11
be used to accelerate preservation and maintenance projects on both state highways and local roads. This amount would be allocated as follows:• $110 million to fund pavement rehabilitation projects
on state highways.;• $100 million to cities and counties for preservation of
local streets and roads;• $100 million for traffic management mobility projects;
Specifically, the Cap and Trade Expenditure Plan proposes:• $250 million for High-Speed Rail;• $50 million for Integration of Rail Systems;• $100 million for Sustainable Communities;• $200 million for Low Carbon Transportation;• $140 for Energy Efficiency and Clean Energy; and• $110 million for Natural Resources and Waste
Diversion. • $27 million for highway pavement
maintenance;• $9 million for active transportation
projects;• $5 million for environmental
mitigation. In addition, the budget proposes a continuation of the Zero-Based budgeting review of Caltrans by reviewing the staffing levels of Capital Outlay Support and Aeronautics programs. It proposes $50 million in new funding for Rail Modernization at Caltrans, in addition to $250 million for High Speed Rail projects. The budget also includes $100 million for the Strategic Growth Council to support the implementation of SB 375 environmentally sustainable community strategies. Cap and Trade Investment Plan: Governor Brown Goes “All A’ Board” for High Speed RailThe Governor’s proposed budget proposes $250 million of Cap and Trade Revenue for Phase I project planning ($58.6 million), construction and right-of-way acquisition for the first phase of the Initial Operating Section ($191.4 million) of HSR. The budget proposal would invest $850 million of Cap and Trade Auction proceeds to support existing and pilot programs that will reduce greenhouse gases. This amount includes the repayment of $100 million that was loaned to the General Fund in 2013-14, with the remaining balance being repaid within the next few years.
Continue Reading on Next Page
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A Dangerous Gap: According to the American Society of Civil Engineers’ annual infrastructure report card, the annual gap for proper investment to maintain our existing transportation facilities hovers at approximately $8 billion...and an investment of $36.5 billion in order to raise Transportation to a “B” grade from it’s current “low C-“ standing. According to the Reason Foundation, California, the world’s 8th largest economy, ranks 46th in the nation on infrastructure conditions. How long do you think those two statistics can parallel each other?
CA Can No Longer Kick the Can Down the Road: Make no mistake, California’s transportation funding is facing a crisis. With the end of Prop 1B monies we are staring at a projected 60% drop in funding. What is more, the gas tax no longer serves as an adequate source for transportation funding. Last fiscal year, Californians purchased the least amount of gasoline since 1998-99. The downward trend is clear; and the result is a transportation revenue source that is falling far behind on even the most reasonable maintenance and growth needs for the state.
Quite simply, Governor Brown’s proposed budget doesn’t do nearly enough to take on the current and impending needs for California’s roads and highways. When it comes to infrastructure investment, 2014 must be a year of action for California…and our industry.
With the end of Prop 1B bond monies, and a gas tax that no longer adequately supports California’s transportation system (not even the maintenance of it), 2014 must be a year of action for California’s policy makers.
Legislators Must Do Their Job: Earlier this year, after strong consideration, our industry coalitions decided not to move forward with a 2014 ballot initiative which would have implemented a small increase in the Vehicle License Fee (VLF) in order to provide necessary funding for transportation projects throughout the state. That means we will look to the
legislature and the Governor to responsibly work to invest the necessary funding to maintain and build the state’s highway and road systems.
The Road Map of Solutions: When it comes to solutions for adequately investing in our transportation needs there are no shortages in options. Those include lowering the voter threshold to 55% for transportation bond measures, a possible Vehicle Registration Fee (VRF) surcharge, a new state transportation bond, and an increase and/or redirection of Cap and Trade Funds back to our transportation system. In the short term, even more obvious and immediate solutions include recapturing truck weight-fees for their intended use: maintaining our roads and highways, supporting/increasing loan repayments and supporting the application of Prop 1B savings for additional projects. When it comes to solutions, it’s not a matter of “if,” it’s a matter of “which.”
2014 – The Year of the Legislator: We may not be moving forward with a bond measure, but we are moving forward. One of the most critical ways to take action this year is to step up and support candidates who are and will support our industry; policy makers who are willing to take action and bring viable solutions to the people of California and the roads, highways and bridges they rely on each day. With a 2014 bond measure on the shelf for now, let’s shift our focus towards the Capitol and towards supporting policy makers who are willing to do their jobs and support viable solutions for a state’s transportation infrastructure needs. Now. Visit our Advocacy in Action webpage at Unitedcontractors.org. u
2014 Must Be a Year of ActionWith the end of Prop 1B bond monies, and a gas tax that no longer adequately supports California’s transportation system (not even the maintenance of it), 2014 must be a year of action for California’s policy makers.
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WHY ATTEND?4 Sit in on legislative and regulatory briefings,marketreportsandforecast from top industry experts.4 Meet your members of Congress, introduce them to your business, and speak to them, face-to-face, about the issues that matter most.4 Network with UCON peers and hundreds of construction professionals from around the country.
Register Today at: unitedcontractors.org/dcflyin
Contact: Kristina Knecht, at (925) 362-7318, or [email protected]
UCON’s 2014 Federal Fly-In
June 9-11, Washington, DC
Resolve to Get Involved—Learn, Lobby, and Lead at the 2014 UCON Federal Fly-In During the January 28th State of the Union Address to the Nation, President Obama called on Congress “to protect more than 3 million jobs by finishing transportation and waterways bills this summer.” Join UCON June 9-11 to help get this done! Join United Contractors or send a “rising star” in your company to attend our annual Washington D.C. Fly-In. This unparalleled, all-access event is an outstanding opportunity to learn, lobby and lead as an industry voice in Washington D.C. The American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA) Federal Issues Program and TCC Fly-In gives you face-to-face meetings with members of Congress and leading policy makers. “UCON’s Federal Fly-In presents a tremendous experience to sit and talk directly to our representatives in Washington who make funding decisions for our industry. It is imperative that those representatives hear the needs and wants from those that represent the millions of man-hours that we represent. Get involved!”—Paul Cianciarulo, Graniterock Company
Hotel accommodations: The Mayflower Renaissance Washington DC Hotel, 1127 Connecticut Ave., N.W. (202) 347-3000* Made by the individual attending; request “ARTBA Federal Issues Program rate”
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FACESUCON’s Membership L.I.V.E. – Leadership, Innovation, Vision & ExcellenceAll that is Possible. All that is Attainable.Kevin Albanese, of Joseph J. Albanese, Inc., was sworn in as the 2014 President of United Contractors at our Membership L.I.V.E. event held on February, 8, 2014. Kevin’s father, John L. Albanese, had the honor of installing his son as well as the entire 2014 Board of Directors (and was the hit of the night!). After his swearing in, Kevin gave a compelling speech, laying out his vision for the Association that he is tasked with leading over the next year. “I challenge each of you to push the bounds of what is possible and attainable, not only in your business, but for your industry— our industry. While we all may vigorously compete on bid day, when we focus on the common bonds that affect each and every one of us, the spectrum, the art of what is possible, begins to expand.”
AWARD WINNERS:We Dig California, Legislator of the Year: Senator Anthony Cannella, Senate District 12 (photo at right); Distinguished Associate Member: Bret Lawrence, Woodruff-Sawyer & Co. (photo below)
2014 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
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FACESUCON wishes to thank the following sponsors:
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— PLATINUM SPONSORS —DeSilva Gates Construction
Ghilotti Bros., Inc.Gordon N. Ball, Inc.
National Trench SafetySilverado Contractors, Inc.
— GOLD SPONSORS —California Bank of Commerce
Ghilotti Construction Co.Joseph J. Albanese, Inc.O.C. Jones & Sons, Inc.
Peterson CATR & B Company
Stomper Company, Inc.Sweeney, Mason, Wilson & Bosomworth
United Rentals Trench SafetyWoodruff-Sawyer & Co.
Zurich North America Surety
— SILVER SPONSORS —Aon Construction Services Group
GALLINA LLPMidstate Barrier, Inc.
Moss Adams LLPPisenti & Brinker LLP
Walsh Group
— BRONZE SPONSORS —Appian Engineering, Inc.
Arthur J. Gallagher Insurance Brokers of California, Inc./Gallagher Construction Services
Leonidou & Rosin Professional CorporationP C & N Construction, Inc.
RDO-Vermeer
The UCON “We Dig CA” Legislator of the Year award is given to a public official who demonstrates leadership and courage in advancing the interest of our industry.
“Senator Cannella was nominated and chosen by United Contractors 2013 Board of Directors for his hard work, dedication and bi-partisan efforts to protect California’s economy, the taxpayers, the quality of our public infrastructure systems and the future of our industry.” — Mark Breslin, United Contractors CEO
Congratulations to Senator Anthony Cannella, United Contractors 2013 Legislator of the Year
“As a civil engineer, I was extremely honored to receive UCON’s legislator of the year award. We have much to do to rebuild our state’s infrastructure and United Contractors is integral to the future of California.”— Senator Cannella
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As I write this column, I’ve been flabbergasted, to say the least, at what has taken place during the first few weeks of this 2014 year.
Several groups purporting to represent certain transportation industry sectors and no less than three widely-read construction trade publications have sent up smoke signals that the battle over one of the most significant threats facing the U.S. transportation design and construction market in decades is already finished.
What’s even more alarming to me is that the “white flag waving” came before we even have had a serious fight.
By Pete Ruane,President and CEO,
ARTBA
Surrender is Not an Option The Battle Over the HighwayTrust Fund is Just Beginning
Specifically, I am referring to the reauthorization of MAP-21 and the crisis facing the federal Highway Trust Fund (HTF)—the source, on average, of 52 percent of all state highway and bridge capital investments. Unless Congress and the President act by October 1, the HTF will not be able to support any new projects in fiscal year 2015. Such an outcome could devastate the American economy, jeopardize hundreds of thousands of jobs, and throttle market development activities for many ARTBA and non-ARTBA member firms. At least nine states already are warning of adverse impacts on their construction programs if the uncertainty drags on.
One construction publication didn’t even mention MAP-21 or the HTF in its wish list of top construction business issues for 2014, and it called for shifting the focus away from Washington, because it viewed the chance of consensus as low. Another publication opinion piece slammed the politicians in Washington, and said the only way to go was to toll everything. While ARTBA certainly supports tolling as part of the solution, it is not the panacea, and the political hurdles to establishing national tolling are arguably even higher than other new revenue options.
It’s easy to bemoan Washington political and policy gridlock, and to argue that nothing will get done. But, it’s the wrong message to be sending to transportation
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design and construction professionals whose livelihoods depend, in large part, on what happens on Capitol Hill.
The fact is that when it comes to infrastructure policy issues, there is common ground to be ploughed. How quickly we have forgotten that MAP-21 passed the House of Representatives 373-52 and the Senate 74-19—the same legislation many naysayers said would never get done. How many other bills garner such overwhelming support these days?
Federal highway and transit investment will be more than $50 billion in fiscal year 2014. It speaks to the importance of the federal government role in transportation policy and also explains why shifting focus out of Washington would be unwise for at least two more reasons.
First, the nearby chart shows that from 2008-2013, state and local highway and bridge spending dropped cumulatively about $18 billion from pre-recession levels. By contrast, over the same period, federal investment, thanks in part to the 2009 stimulus law, increased by nearly $17 billion and helped keep the market afloat. Second, over 40 percent of the $11 trillion in domestic
and supplies critical to economic growth. This network cannot be built and sustained through a patchwork of state programs.
Given these realities, now is the time for every industry professional concerned about the future of their business to get ready to fight over the next few months. Take your message directly to Washington. Call your representative and senators via ARTBA’s Action Hotline (888-448-2782) today and tell them to do their bloody jobs by fixing the Highway Trust Fund and completing action on MAP-21’s reauthorization as soon as possible. Download the “Transportation Construction Advocate” app from the iTunes or Google Play stores to access the information you need to connect with your elected officials. And plan to be in Washington June 9-11 for the ARTBA Federal Issues Program and Transportation Construction Coalition Fly-In (see page 13 for more details).
The work ahead will not be easy, but it never is when it’s truly worth fighting for. When it comes to the imminent battle over the Highway Trust Fund and our industry’s future, surrender is not an option! u
Pete Ruane is president & CEO of the Washington, D.C.-based American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA). The preceding article has been reprinted with permission. United Contractors is an affiliate of ARTBA. For more information, visit www.artba.org, or contact Emily Cohen, UCON’s Director of Government Relations.
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Federal highway and transit investment will be more than $50 billion in fiscal year 2014. It speaks to the importance of the federal government role in transportation policy and also explains why shifting focus out of Washington would be unwise.____________________
truck freight shipments in 2011 were sent out of state, according to Federal Highway Administration data. Over 23 percent of that total was sent to non-neighboring states, which is more evidence of a national transportation network’s importance to moving products
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WhereThere’saWill,There’saWayTop 10 Ways to Get Involved with United Contractors Government AdvocacyEach UCON Member, no matter how large or small, has the opportunity to get involved and make a difference. Together, we are leading the way for industry.
Here’s how YOU can get involved and help steer the ship for the future of your industry:
Grassroots Action:Speak up! We make it easy for you to take action on important industry issues by reaching out to your legislator, congressional representative, the governor, agency leaders, and more. Log on to UCON’s Advocacy in Action page and send a letter to your representatives on the most relevant issues of the day. And keep an eye out for UCON Action Alerts. When we need you to help take action, we mean it!
Attend a PAC Fundraiser: Each year, multiple times a year, UCON hosts fundraisers which help support the campaigns of politicians who support our industry. Ensuring that we elect and re-elect industry friendly candidates is one of the most vital ways we can ensure the success and support of our contractors’ market-share.
Join UCON in Washington DC: Or Send a “rising star” from your company to participate. Attending the UCON/ARTBA Fly-In is an outstanding opportunity to “learn, lobby and lead” on critical funding and regulatory issues that impact us at the federal level. Meet face-to-face with key members of Congress and network with your peers from around the country.
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By Emily Cohen,Director of Government Relations
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business. Encourage them to find ways to support and fund infrastructure investment, streamline regulations, and create a stronger business environment. UCON will provide you with any information you need and can help set up and facilitate a meeting with your representative.
CALL US! Not sure where to turn? Need assistance on a federal, state or local matter? Struggling with a public agency issue? Concerned with legislation? Need assistance on a regulatory matter? Want to provide input? Reach out to UCON’s GR team. United Contractors provides unrivaled access to public officials and agency leaders, and direct assistance on the issues that matter most. u
Contact UCON’s Government Relations Team: Emily Cohen, Director of Government Relations, (925) 362-7304, [email protected]; Kristina Knecht, Regulatory Affairs Manager, (925) 362-7318, [email protected]; Kevin Pedrotti, Legislative Advocate, (916) 441-3111, [email protected]; Tony Dorsa, Regulatory Consultant, (408) 649-4383, [email protected]
Attend and Support the UCON Annual Government Relations Auction: Register, sponsor, donate and bid! This is an opportunity to help support UCON’s entire Government Relations program while networking with hundreds of your peers, legislators, political leaders, and more. This event supports the grassroots everyday advocacy efforts of UCON.
CONTRIBUTE Directly to the UCON PAC: UCON’s PAC supports candidates who support our industry. Maintaining a strong UCON PAC helps us send a strong message to local and state legislators and candidates.
Join the Legislative Committee: UCON’s legislative committee provides critical input on legislation that impacts union contractors throughout the state. Each member of the legislative committee has the opportunity to provide direct feedback and insight and helps guide the associations positions on a wide variety of state and federal legislation.
Participate in the Attorney Roundtable: Our attorney members have a unique perspective on key industry issues. We strongly encourage our attorney members as well as internal counsel for contractors to attend our attorney roundtable meetings. This is an incredible opportunity to learn, discuss and provide meaningful feedback and idea generation on a wide variety of issues.
Caltrans Committee: If you bid and perform Caltrans work, consider participating in the UCON-Caltrans liaison committee. This group meets quarterly with the Caltrans leaders and key representatives to discuss and make progress on vital issues facing Caltrans contractors. It’s also a great opportunity to network with and hear directly from Caltrans officials.
Meet with Your Legislator and/or Congressional Representative: Never underestimate the power of your voice and your vote. Set up a meeting with your State Assembly Member, State Senator and/or Member of Congress to talk about the issues impacting your
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WTF?!Sad Facts: Americans spend a total of600,000hoursstuckintrafficeveryyear. The nation has about 100,000 bridges old enough for Medicare. And a recent global ranking put the United States’ infrastructure in 25th place, just behind Barbados.— Federal Secretary of Transportation, Anthony Foxx. WTF?! It’s time for our state and federal representatives to do their jobs, and take action to secure long term and adequate funding for our transportation infrastructure. u
22 W W W. U N I T E D C O N T R A C T O R S . O R G
600,000 Hours of Pain!
Bio-Mod Modular Bioretention System
The Bio-Mod is a pre-cast concrete biofiltration cell system designed for use with local agency bioretention cell designs, and is compatible for use with all types of filter soils, including non-proprietary low flow (5-10 in/hr) or high flow soils.
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By Denise Ramirez,Online Services Manager
Get Creative with Your Educational FinancesApply now for a UCON Scholarship
Applications are available for our 2014 Scholarship Awards Program. Celebrating our 20th year of giving back, UCON is proud to be distributing a total of $23,000 to two eligible groups:
1. UCON affiliates studying any major (employees, spouses, domestic partners, or dependents of a member company)
2. California college students majoring in civil engineering or construction management
For more details on eligibility, visit www.unitedcontractors.org/scholarship and make sure to submit your applications by Friday, April 25, 2014. If you have any questions regarding the program, contact Denise Ramirez at (925) 362-7308, or email [email protected]. u
20-for-20 Campaign2014 marks the 20th Anniversary of UCON’s Scholarship Awards Program.Donate $20 to the Program, and help fund the next generation of construction. Since 1994, UCON’s Scholarship Program has awarded $295,000 to member affiliates and future construction leaders. Give today at unitedcontractors.org/scholarship
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24 W W W. U N I T E D C O N T R A C T O R S . O R G
By Denise Ramirez,Online Services Manager
Get Creative with Your Educational FinancesApply now for a UCON Scholarship
Applications are available for our 2014 Scholarship Awards Program. Celebrating our 20th year of giving back, UCON is proud to be distributing a total of $23,000 to two eligible groups:
1. UCON affiliates studying any major (employees, spouses, domestic partners, or dependents of a member company)
2. California college students majoring in civil engineering or construction management
For more details on eligibility, visit www.unitedcontractors.org/scholarship and make sure to submit your applications by Friday, April 25, 2014. If you have any questions regarding the program, contact Denise Ramirez at (925) 362-7308, or email [email protected]. u
20-for-20 Campaign2014 marks the 20th Anniversary of UCON’s Scholarship Awards Program.Donate $20 to the Program, and help fund the next generation of construction. Since 1994, UCON’s Scholarship Program has awarded $295,000 to member affiliates and future construction leaders. Give today at unitedcontractors.org/scholarship
May1 Construction Contracts Thursday, May 1, 8:00am-12:00pm $60 Member / $85 Non-member UCONOffice,SanRamon
3 First Aid/CPR 4 Hour Refresher Saturday, May 3, 8:00am-12:00pm $65 Member / $90 Non-member UCONOffice,SanRamon
17 Competent Person Trenching & Excavation Saturday, May 17, 8:00am-4:00pm $90 Member / $115 Non-member UCONOffice,SanRamon
29-30 Napa R.E.D. Saturday, May 29-30 $375 Member / $410 Non-member VillagioInn&Spa,NapaValley
M A R C H 2 0 1 4 25
UCON CALENDAR
For details, online registration,and additional events/meetings:www.unitedcontractors.orgQuestions? Call (925) 855-7900
March
8 First Aid/CPR 8 Hour Saturday, March 8, 8:00am-4:30pm $85 Member / $110 Non-member UCONOffice,SanRamon
13 Prompt Payment Thursday, March 13, 8:00am-12:00pm $60 Member / $85 Non-member ResidenceInnbyMarriott,Pleasanton
18 Project Management Career Advancement (PMCA) March 18 - May 20, Tuesdays, 3:30pm-7:30pm $990 member; $1,500 non-member ResidenceInnbyMarriott,Pleasanton
April10 TexasHold’EmScholarshipFundraiser Seebelowformoreinformation
12 FlaggerCertification Saturday, April 12, 8:00am-1:00pm $100 Member / $125 Non-member UCONOffice,SanRamon
Fearless Foreman Promoting Positive Change from WithinThursday, May 8, 6:00pm-8:00pm$99 Member / $199 Non-member Instructor: UCON CEO, Mark Breslin
8
UNITED CONTRACTORSSCHOLARSHIPFUNDRAISER
Texas Hold’em Poker TournamenT
April 10, 2013Bridges Golf Club, San Ramon
Join us for the UCON Scholarship Fundraiser—a No-Limit Texas Hold’Em Poker Tournament. You don’t even have to be a
poker player; everyone is welcome! Sponsorships available.Registration: $140 Member/$170 Non-member (includes
appetizers, drinks and chips to start the tournament).
Contact: Marlo Fregulia, (925) 362-7317, [email protected]
10APR
26 W W W. U N I T E D C O N T R A C T O R S . O R G
upSONSRAY RENTALS & SONSRAY MACHINERYDougWiles1450 Doolittle DriveSan Leandro, CA 94557( (510) 562-0653Fax (510) 633-7693Email [email protected]
MikeW.Titus1041 S.Pershing AvenueStockton, CA 95206( (209) 464-9600Fax (209) 464-9647Email [email protected]
BrettBuzzini1751 Bell AvenueSacramento, CA 95838( (916) 649-0096Fax (916) 649-0584Email [email protected]
R. E.D.
Napa
RECHARGEENGAGEDEVELOP
May 29-30thVillagio Inn & Spa
GaryGeorge2535 Ellis StreetRedding, CA 96001( (530) 245-9000Fax (530) 246-2978Email [email protected] www.sonraymachinery.comMember Since: 12/4/78
MK PIPELINES, INC.SeanBrennan3708 Bayshore Blvd.Brisbane, CA 94005( (415) 825-5000Fax (415) 825-5001Email [email protected] Since 7/29/10
BAY CITIES PAVING & GRADING, INC.BenRodriguez,Jr.1450 Civic Court, Building B, Suite 400Concord, CA 94520( (925) 687-6666Fax (925) 687-2122Email [email protected] Since 8/6/97
CORRPRO COMPANIES, INC.DahlRask20991 Cabot Blvd.Hayward, CA 94545( (510) 614-8800Email [email protected] www.corrpro.comMember Since 4/30/98
U.S. PIPE & FOUNDRY CO.CollinBryant1308 Fulton StreetModesto, CA 95350( (530) 521-8081Email [email protected] www.uspipe.comMember Since 10/24/77
Find What You NeedUCON’s Directory and Buyer’s GuideOnline and in PrintUCON’s new 2014 Directory and Buyer’s Guide was mailed to all members. Use it as a tool to find what you are looking for:• Contractor members and specialties• Associate members and specialties• Union organizations• Industry resources and more You can access the UCON Directory right from our website—click on “Publications” at the top of our home page, and select the “Directory” image. Use this online version....click through pages, and link directly to member websites and email addresses. You can order additional hard copies by emailing Denise Ramirez, Online Services Manager, at [email protected].
Note the following member updates, and/or correcitons in your printed version of the guide:
Just the right vintage—start with a relaxed and refined atmosphere to network with members; finish with a strategic planning meeting to learn
from the past and focus on the future of the organization and your business.
Contact: Jenn Rogers, Senior Manager of Events, [email protected]
unitedcontractors.org/napared
IN THE DIRT AND ON THE JOB
Machines when you need them24-hour emergency service
Superior rental customer supportMulti-line equipment and attachments
Delivery and pickupOn-site field service
Equipment orientation
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EXCAVATORS SKID STEER & COMPACT TRACK LOADERS LOADER BACKHOES DOZERS MOTORGRADERS AND MORE
CALIFONIA NEVADA OREGON WASHINGTON
Fast parts availabilityCertified service technicians
Flexible finance solutionsNew & Used Equipment
28 W W W. U N I T E D C O N T R A C T O R S . O R G
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dCo
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41 YEARS – 1973Associate Member:San Jose Concrete Pipe Co.BradNakaji
33 YEARS – 1981Associate Member:US Concrete Precast GroupGregBull
32 YEARS – 1982Associate Member:AON Construction Services GroupMikeHeffernan
28 YEARS – 1986Contractor Member:T.D.W. Construction, Inc.EdmundoAlire,Jr.
19 YEARS – 1995Associate Member:AWSISteveFerris
17 YEARS – 1997Associate Member:Mechanics BankKearySullivan
16 YEARS – 1998Contractor Member:R.E. Serrano, Inc.RickySerrano
Associate Member:D.P. Nicoli, Inc.MikeWelton
15 YEARS – 1999Contractor Member:Central Striping Service, Inc.JamesLesniewski
Associate Member:Harris Blade RentalSandyThomson
13 YEARS – 2001Contractor Member:AEC Construction, Inc.AllenCarnesecca
12 YEARS – 2002Contractor Members:CMC Traffic Control Specialists, Inc. dbaCMC ConstructionCrystalMiks
Sukut Construction, Inc.MichaelCrawford
11 YEARS – 2003Contractor Member:D.A. Wood Construction, Inc.DanWood
Associate Member:Heffernan InsuranceBrokersDavidHarris
9 YEARS – 2005Contractor Members:Argonaut ConstructorsMichaelSmith,Jr.
Ashlin PacificConstruction, Inc.RichMetcalfe
Associate Member:Atkinson, Andelson,Loya, Ruud & RomoRobertFried
8 YEARS – 2006Contractor Members:Cal State Constructors, Inc.DonCabianca
California Track &Engineering, Inc.KarolFair
7 YEARS – 2007Contractor Member:Tri-Valley ExcavatingMikeGarcia
6 YEARS – 2008Contractor Member:Inner City Demolition, Inc.JamesCampanella
Associate Member:Mabey Inc.ByronYoung
5 YEARS – 2009Contractor Member:RNR Construction, Inc.AndreCatellier
4 YEARS – 2010Contractor Member:Precision Drilling, Inc.TyAmundson
Associate Member:GE CapitalBrandonHannaman
3 YEARS – 2011Associate Member:Construction TestingServiceJulieThome
2 YEARS – 2012Contractor Members:Atkinson ConstructionJohnHarrington
Sequoia Construction &Development, Inc.JimMartin
1 YEAR – 2013Contractor Members:California Engineering Contractors, Inc / Silverado Contractors, Inc, a Joint VentureWahidTadros
Roadway Construction, Inc.RezaYazdi
Associate Members:Downey Brand LLPSeanFilippini
Filice Insurance AgencyCindySmith
MARCH MEMBER ANNIVERSARIESUnited Contractors would like to take this opportunity to recognize and thank the following companies who are celebrating their anniversary of membership with our organization in March:
27 YEARS – 1987Associate Member:Marsh Risk & InsuranceServicesChuckMarmolejo
21 YEARS – 1993Associate Member:CNA SuretyPaulKitchell
20 YEARS – 1994Contractor Member:Uniacke Construction, Inc.JosephUniacke
Associate Member:Cresco EquipmentRentals ChrisSmith
Assisting you in the following areas of Real Estate: • Commercial • Industrial • Yard/Shop • Land • Office
When you’re considering: • Buying • Selling • Leasing • Subleasing
Ted GallagherVicePresident925-627-2894Ted.Gallagher@CassidyTurley.com
Lic#01467047
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N O V / D E C 2 0 1 3 35M A R C H 2 0 1 4 29
Welcome Drew Aversa,UCON’sNewDirector of Business DevelopmentDrew Aversa started out as a kid working at his parent’s custom metal fabrication shop, Advance Heli-Welders, first pushing a broom and getting a close up look at business operations and labor union negotiations. At the same time, Drew also competed on the national circuit showing Arabian horses and was a national champion.
Drew then built successful careers as a professional firefighter/paramedic, college instructor, and business/marketing entrepreneur. During Drew’s tenure in the fire service, he helped shape community outreach and education programs. He instructed at Las Positas College, teaching over 3,500 students in fire and emergency medical services programs including: Trench rescue, confined space rescue, building construction, and hazardous materials operations. Later on, an entrepreneurial opportunity led Drew to focus on building a new business and strong brand, furthering his own leadership capacity.
Drew holds a B.S. in Management graduating cum laude from Southern Oregon University and is currently enrolled in the global Executive MBA program at St. Mary’s College. Drew enjoys sailing, scuba diving, and international travel in his spare time. He is a member of the Oakland Rotary Club and Director’s Circle at Scripps Institution of Oceanography.
In his new role at UCON, he will be the point man for the recruitment and retention of members while working closely with UCON’s CEO Mark Breslin, the UCON management team, and the Board of Directors.
To learn more about Drew or connect with him, please reach out to say hello and welcome him as your Director of Business Development! [email protected] or (925) 785-6977. u
WHOEVERSAID
GNINNIW“ ISN’T
EVERYTHING,” LOST.
SEDGWICKRULE #137
www.sedgwicklaw.com
Sedgwick Construction Law Practices GroupChambers Ranked in 2012, 2013
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30 W W W. U N I T E D C O N T R A C T O R S . O R G
By Kristina Knecht,Regulatory Affairs Manager
Safety Is Everyone’s ResponsibilityRecognize Your Team for their Contribution
Do you have a zero-to-low incident rating for the 2013 year? Does your safety program top the charts for industry excellence? UCON is proud to announce the return of its annual R.E.A.L. Safety Awards Program, which honors the safest companies in our industry by Recognizing Excellence, Awareness, and Leadership in safety. All contractor members are eligible to apply. Applications are available online through April 11th, 2014 at www.unitedcontractors.org/safetyawards.
Winning companies will be featured in UCON’s June magazine, featured on the UCON website, and be recognized at our high-profile awards ceremony. For details, contact Kristina Knecht, Regulatory Affairs Manager, [email protected], (925) 362-7318. u
2013 R.E.A.L. Safety
awards program
SAFETY
UCON 2013 President, Michael Ghilotti, Ghilotti Bros., Inc. presents a safety award to John Estruth, of Tri-Valley Excavating, Inc. (award winner in the “Up to 25,000 Man-Hours” Category)
Dolores Park Playground San Francisco
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Including Parks, Trails, & Streetscapes
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www.baumanland.com
ARTBA Federal Issues Program & Transportation Construction Coalition Washington Fly-In
Mayflower HotelJune 9-11, 2014
For more information, please contact Ed Tarrant at 202.289.4434 or [email protected]
ONE STOP SHOPPING FOREVERYTHING UNDERGROUND!
RENTALS • SALES • LEASES • PARTS • FACTORY TRAINED SERVICE
32 W W W. U N I T E D C O N T R A C T O R S . O R G
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ber
NEWSBrutoco Engineering & Construction, Inc. Awarded Contract to Upgrade Castaic Truck Inspection Facility on 1-5 in Santa Clarita Brutoco Engineering & Construction, Inc. was awarded the contract to upgrade the existing truck inspection facility on the Interstate 5 in Santa Clarita by the State of California, Department of Transportation (Caltrans). The $1.8 million project upgrades the existing truck weigh-station, inspection and highway patrol facility that was built in the 1950s. The improvements include replacing concrete slabs, roofing, floor covering, ceilings and HVAC system. Structural upgrades will be made to the building along with upgrades to the restrooms, lighting, paint and electrical work. “This is Brutoco’s 130th contract with Caltrans, and we look forward to another successful project,” said Brutoco President
Michael J. Murphy. Brutoco’s first project for Caltrans was in 1968. Since then, numerous Caltrans bridges and highway projects have been built and retrofitted by Brutoco over the past 45 years. Brutoco is also currently building the I-10/Citrus Avenue interchange in Fontana, widening and replacing 11 bridges on the I-405 in Los Angeles and repairing Metro train stations along the Gold Line in Pasadena and Los Angeles. For further information, visit www.brutoco.net, a UCON member since 1988. u
GALLINA LLP Acquires Firm in PacificNorthwestGALLINA LLP has announced the acquisition of Tueffers, Guckian & Gamon, PLLC (TG&G). “This move furthers GALLINA’s vision to be a nationally recognized premier firm while also creating great career opportunities for the talented people of both firms,” said Larry Taylor, Managing Partner at GALLINA LLP. “It also expands GALLINA’s audit and tax practices while increasing our firm’s presence in the Pacific Northwest.”Taylor noted that the two firms complemented each other well, with GALLINA deriving more than 60 percent of their revenue from the construction industry, while TG&G are exclusive to it.
“We’re looking forward to developing new opportunities in the region,” said Teresa Arrighi, Regional Managing Partner, Pacific Northwest at GALLINA LLP. “GALLINA already has well-known expertise in the construction industry and with the addition of the TG&G personnel joining us, we see this as a great way to build on their excellent reputation and relationships.” Headquartered in Washington, TG&G has served the construction industry with clients in Alaska, Hawaii, and Washington for more than 30 years. Principals at TG&G, including Mark Tueffers, Colette Guckian, and David Gamon, have transitioned into the partner group at GALLINA LLP. At this time, TG&G will remain at their current location at 9655 SE 36th Street, Suite 201, Mercer Island, Washington.
For more information, visit www.gallina.com, a UCON member since 1981. u
UNDERGROUND CONTRACTOR PRODUCTSUtility Sand | ¾" Drain Rock | 1½" Drain Rock Pea Gravel | Class II AB Class IV AB | Concrete Slurry Mixes | Road Materials | Hotmix Asphalt Graniteseal | Granitepatch™
TRANSPORTATIONGraniterock offers a wide variety of high-quality delivered products.
EROSION CONTROL PRODUCTSBlankets | DI Protection | Geo-Synthetics Silt Fences | Wattles
RECYCLE YARDS PRODUCTS AND SERVICESRecycled Baserock | Class II | Class IV Engineered Fill | Recycling Mobile Crushing Services Caltrans Class | Subbase Material ¾" Non-spec Drain Rock | ³⁄8" Fill Sand ¾" AC Baserock made on demand (minimum 5,000 ton orders) | 3" Minus Course Material (for construction access areas)
Great Projects. Great Products. Great Lives.
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M A R C H 2 0 1 4 33
GraniterockCelebratesIts 114th AnniversaryCalifornia-based manufacturer Graniterock celebrated its 114th anniversary on February 14th. Graniterock—which produces aggregates, concrete, asphalt and construction materials—got its start at a large granite deposit next to a railroad in Aromas, California in the late 1800s and early 1900s.
The company formed on Valentine’s Day in 1900 and has been in operation since, working high-profile jobs including the runways at the San Francisco International, San Jose International and Salinas Municipal airports and providing material for Stanford’s Linear Accelerator Laboratory and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.
When Graniterock was created, the company manufactured one size of rock: 6 inches by 6 inches. The manufacturer started with a “handful of laborers with shovels and picks” and has grown to open 20 locations employing approximately 750 people. The company is now run by the third generation of the family who formed the company.
Graniterock has previously earned a spot among Fortune Magazine’s “100 Best Companies to Work For.”Although Graniterock has a rich history full of interesting stories, the most memorable thing about the company is “the story of Graniterock people—people who have stayed with Graniterock for a long time,” says Keith Severson, Marketing Communications Manager. “People are the ones that make the difference.”
Find out more at www.graniterock.com, a UCON member since 1995. (Source:storyoriginallyappearedinAggregatesManager)u
CALLLAST
34 W W W. U N I T E D C O N T R A C T O R S . O R G
Leaders of the PackSerious About Protecting Our Industry
Elected by, and in service to, our fellow members and peers. 2014 UCON Board of Directors:
(From left) Donna Rehrmann, Stomper Company, Inc., Secretary/Treasurer-Elect; Jim Alvey, Appian Engineering, Inc.; Bruce Daseking, McGuire and Hester, Vice President/President-Elect & Secretary/Treasurer; Hal Stober, Gordon N. Ball, Inc.; Brett Kincaid, O’Grady Paving, Inc.; Kim Scruggs, Columbia Electric, Inc.; Michael Ghilotti, Ghilotti Bros., Inc., Past President; Sue Capriola, Silverado Contractors, Inc.; Thomas Lum, Peterson CAT, Associate Director-Elect; Bob Rahebi, Redgwick Construction Company; Jeff Prevost, Lockton Insurance Brokers, LLC, Associate Director; Kevin Albanese, Joseph J. Albanese, Inc., President; Christi Plum, P C & N Construction, Inc.; Rich Gates, DeSilva Gates Construction, Director-at-Large (not pictured)(Motorcycles shown are courtesy of Jim Alvey, Appian Engineering, Inc. and Mike Carter, All American Rentals)
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