January 2023: E-Newsletter 2nd Edition

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Your bi-weekly news & updates

MHBA members receive the latest industry news through our bi-weekly e-newsletter releases!

Below you will find pertinent industry information ranging from: Industry News, Industry Resources, News Articles, Government Updates and MHBA Member Event Updates!

If you have staff members that you think should receive our e-newsletters, please contact us at info@homebuilders.mb.ca to get them added to our distribution list.

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MHBA Monthly Member Profile

This month's feature member is Oswald Construction!

Oswald Construction has been a renovator member for 23 years!

MHBA membership gives them the opportunity to receive qualified leads through the website, and they find that their membership provides instant credibility and recognition with prospective clients.

View the full interview with Graeme MacMillan to learn more about the company, click HERE.

This profile was posted on MHBA's website and social media feeds! If you are interested in your company being featured on our Monthly Member Profile, please contact Amanda at aserediuk@homebuilders.mb.ca.

2023 Spring Parade of Homes

The 2023 Spring Parade of Homes will run from February 25th to March 19th.

Manitoba's best home builders will once again put their extraordinary show homes on display during the Spring Parade of Homes.

The 2023 Spring Parade will feature over 120 Show Homes located in 26 Manitoba neighborhoods, built by 27 of our builder members.

The Spring Parade of Homes Reception will take place on April 21st. Stay tuned for more details.

MNP Suits n' Boots Networking Event

Date: Thursday February 16th, 2023

Time: 5:00pm - 9:00pm

Location: Tamarack Room at Qualico Family Centre (Assiniboine Park Conservancy)

If you're a business owner, or part of your company's leadership team, come spend an evening enjoying appetizers and drinks with MNP at their Suits n' Boots networking event. Create and strengthen relationships with industry peers while learning more about MNP.

To reserve your spot RSVP to Amanda Armour at 204-927-2949 or amanda.armour@mnp.ca

Winnipeg Free Press Back Page Advertisements - Spots still Available!

Once again, the MHBA has purchased the back page of the Saturday and Tuesday editions of the 2023 Winnipeg Free Press Homes Section. We have secured a great rate this year as part of your membership benefits!

This year, the Winnipeg Free Press has introduced half page ads. There are still available dates for both full page and half page colour ads

To view the rates and remaining dates please click here.

If you are interested in running an ad in the upcoming year on the back page of the Saturday Homes Section or the back page of the Tuesday edition please email Amanda at aserediuk@homebuilders.mb.ca

"What does the MHBA mean to me?"

A Manitoba Home Builders' Association membership comes with many benefits. Hear what being a part of the MHBA means to our members here.

Monthly Toolbox Talk

Topic: "Healthy Habits at Work"

Illness can happen at any time of the year, but especially during the cold winter months employers may see a spike in workers getting sick. To avoid catching a virus, this toolbox talk is designed to equip you with a series of tips and tricks to keep you healthy.

View the Toolbox Talk HERE

CSAM: Toolbox Talk Booklet

The Construction Safety Association of Manitoba (CSAM) has revamped their collection of toolbox talks to make it easier for you to meet your legislated safety training requirements, as per Section 44 of the Workplace Safety and Health Act.

You can purchase the full set of the 54 toolbox talks in a coil-bound booklet format for $25 per copy, or visit their website to download for FREE.

CSAM Safety Alerts: Winter Driving

We've seen our fair share of snow and ice this winter already - and surely more is to come. Be prepared for winter driving by viewing this safety alert from CSAM.

MHBA meets with Mayor Gillingham

MHBA Board Chair Jason Jaquet, UDI Manitoba Chair Michael Carruthers, and MHBA CEO Lanny McInnes met with Mayor Scott Gillingham on January 23^rd to discuss key industry priorities and provide updates on initiatives we are working closely with the City of Winnipeg on. Topics included an update on the review of Winnipeg’s Development Agreement Parameters, discussions on ways to improve investment certainty for builders and developers, residential infill development, the need for a strategic regional infrastructure plan, and budget priorities for 2023.

Thank you to Mayor Gillingham for meeting with us to discuss issues important to residential construction and land development in Winnipeg.

CSAM: THE Safety Conference

Registration is open for Canada’s premier construction safety conference. CSAM: THE Safety Conference returns to the RBC Convention Centre Winnipeg on February 14 and 15 for two days of customized training materials, networking opportunities, and hands-on demonstrations.

Deadline to register: February 2, 2023

Views the registration brochure HERE

CHBA National Awards for Housing Excellence

Congratulations to Alair Homes of Brandon and Maric Homes for being announced finalists for the CHBA National Awards for Housing Excellence!

Best Kitchen Renovation – under $70,000

Alair Homes (Brandon), “BDN Custom Reno”

Best Whole Home Renovation – under $200,000

Alair Homes (Brandon), “Falcon Rooftop Reno”
Alair Homes (Brandon), “Wildwood Cabin Renovation”

Best Whole Home Renovation – over $800,000

Maric Homes, "Mid-Century Rejuvenation"

View photos of these renovations here.

View the list of all finalists here.

Free Climate Change Training for Infrastructure Professionals and Decision-Makers Open For Registration

Three courses delivered as part of Engineers and Geoscientists Manitoba’s Manitoba Climate Resilience Training (MCRT) Project are now available for registration.

Online 90-minute courses will take place on 'Infrastructure Climate Risk Assessment: Featuring the PIEVC Process', 'Natural Infrastructure Solutions to Enhance Climate Resilience' and 'Introduction to Climate Change Through Codes, Standards, and Regulations' on dates in February and March, with two dates offered to choose from for each.

Newly developed 3-hour in-person workshops will offer "deeper dives" into the topics through presentations, discussions and/or small group exercises.

Click on the course titles for further information and to register for these MCRT courses. To see other upcoming climate change training that has been identified by the project team, see Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba's events calendar.

MCSC E-Newsletter and Updates - Sign up today!

View the most recent MCSC Newsletter here.

Manitoba Government Launches Nomination Process for Capital Planning Region Board

The Manitoba government is now accepting nominations for the first provincial board member appointees to the newly established Capital Planning Region.

The Manitoba government established the Capital Planning Region to enhance economic and social development by improving and co-ordinating sustainable land use and development between the 18 member municipalities. The board of the Capital Planning Region consists of one director from each member municipality. The province will add up to four additional board members to facilitate conversations among municipalities and add provincial perspectives and relevant expertise.

The Capital Planning Region board will be responsible for:

adopting a regional plan that is set in by-laws;
leading the development of regional responses to the planning issues of its member municipalities; and
identifying and promoting opportunities for the regional member municipalities to co-operate in the cost-effective development of infrastructure and the provision of services on a regional basis.

The new board will also ensure the organization complies with applicable legislation, regulations, and provincial policies as well as transition related functions from the Winnipeg Metropolitan Region organization.

Directors will serve a three-year term, after which they may be re-appointed and continue to hold office until a successor is appointed.

The deadline for applications is February 1, 2023.

For more information about eligibility or to apply, visit https://jobsearch.gov.mb.ca/generateBulletin.action?ID=96833.

The City of Brandon Development Services Division

The City of Brandon Development Services Division will be changing the fee structure for water and sewer permits for 2023. Starting in 2023 fees associated with water & sewer permits will now be $234. The purpose of this change is to consolidate the two existing fees associated with water & sewer permits and streamline the permit application process by eliminating the need to choose a type of permit and applying a single fee, regardless of the type of work being undertaken.

Historically, the water & sewer permit fee has been split into two fees, one associated with work on private property $84 (2022), and one for work in the public right of way, $184 (2022). The permit fee associated with work that takes place on both the private property and public right of way amounts to $268 ($84 + $184). Fees associated with servicing new construction would be split, with the developer paying for the public portion on the building/foundation permit ($184) and the excavation contractor responsible for the remaining fee ($84) by way of a water & sewer permit. The new process will see fees associated with new construction moved to the water & sewer permit with the applicant of the water & sewer permit paying all fees associated with the permit ($234). The water & sewer permit fee will be removed from most building/foundation permits.

Starting January 1^st, 2023, when applying for a water & sewer permit, applicants will no longer be required to choose between works taking place on public and/or private property. Rather than being required to choose a scope of work, applicants will simply apply for a single water & sewer permit. Removing the potential for an incorrect application will result in an application process that is smoother and more efficient for the applicant and the City.

If you have any questions or feedback related to this process and the fees associated with water & sewer permits, please contact:

Murray Fischer

Building Safety Manager

Planning & Buildings Department

204-729-2151

m.fischer@brandon.ca

Notice for Associate Members: Credit Card Thefts

It has been brought to the MHBA’s attention that some of our associate members (either a retail or consumer direct operation) have been experiencing theft with stolen credit cards through transactions when the credit card is not present in the store or building.

Example of the type of theft taking place: the stolen credit card is called in from a false home building company and processed (for a cash and carry deal), a pickup is arranged for thousands of dollars of material, material is picked up and delivered to an alternative site, and by the time the theft is found (usually when the credit card holder receives their statement and does not approve the purchase), the product is likely moved out of the city, province or resold on third market sites.

We would strongly recommend that you avoid taking credit cards over the phone (as often as possible; especially from unknown clients) and instead use a secure payment 3D processor (Pay Link) to ensure protection for your business and your clients.

With a Pay link, a link is provided via e-mail to the customer, where they enter their payment information into a portal that is secured(for both), and the credit card provider will either deny or approve that transaction. In some cases, the credit card provider will request a two-step verification to approve the purchase.

Manitoba Government Launches Work in Manitoba Job Portal

The Manitoba government is launching the Work in Manitoba job portal, a one-stop website that will connect job seekers and employers based on qualifications and labour market needs.

The user-friendly platform is free for both job seekers and employers. Job seekers can create profiles that capture their skills, experience, education and career preferences. When employers upload job postings, the portal will send notifications to job seekers with relevant qualifications and goals.

For more information and to register on the site, visit www.workinmanitoba.ca.

To view the province’s news release, click here .

Industry Related News Stories

'No cheap and cheerful allowed'

UM Properties has high hopes, standards for its housing development near university

Public largely opposes city's $30-million loan

Residents overwhelmingly opposed the City of Brandon’s proposed $30-million loan to facilitate construction of two new lift stations during a public hearing Monday evening.

Many councilors undecided ahead of public hearing

Days ahead of a second and final public hearing Monday about whether the City of Brandon should borrow $30 million to build two new lift stations in its southwest areas

Jo Aiello Returns to 92.1 CITI to join Former Co-Hosts

Joe Aiello rejoined his former co-hosts Phil Aubrey and Shalinda Kirby on Monday in a reunion of the popular morning show trio.

B.C. creating permit hub to streamline housing approval process: premier

New strategy will create single application process to cut approval time to a few months

Committee denies zoning variance applications for Wellington Crescent condo project

A second round of zoning variance applications for the controversial development at 514 Wellington Cres. was denied by the City Centre Community Committee on Thursday.

Vacant block that poses fire hazard approved for quick demolition

A former apartment building is set for an early demolition after repeated break-ins sparked fears it could be set on fire or vandalized.

City, developers pay price for expanded Municipal Board: Rollins

The Manitoba government is giving its municipal development tribunal more power to overturn land-use decisions made by Winnipeg city councilors.

Hurry up... and wait

Patience is required as demand continues to surge for home renovations and car repairs

Gaming their way into urban planning

Winnipeg teachers want to turn pupils into urban planners with new educational video game that will task users with exploring digital replicas of local landmarks and inserting infrastructure

Ask a Renovator at the Winnipeg Home and Renovation Show

The MHBA’s “Ask A Renovator” booth is a signature feature of this weekend’s 2023 Winnipeg Renovation Show

Winnipeg Renovation Show on next weekend - MHBA

Manitoba Home Builders’ Association renovator members are excited to once again be part of the 2023 Winnipeg Renovation Show,

Winnipeg Renovation Show just around the corner - MHBA

Home renovations are a big part of our lifestyle in Manitoba. We historically spend more on home renovations per capita than any other province

Federal, provincial programs aim to help with home energy efficiency - MHBA

Increasing the energy efficiency of our homes has been a major focus for all levels of government as well as for Manitoba homeowners.

Still time to check out Fall Parade of Homes - MHBA

Our Fall and Spring Parades of Homes are showcase events hosted by the Manitoba Home Builders’ Association that demonstrate the best that the new home building industry has to offer.

MHBA members embrace professional development - MHBA

Ongoing professional development is a key piece of what differentiates a Manitoba Home Builders’ Association member from other residential construction companies in Manitoba.

Fall Parade of Homes extended two more weeks - MHBA

Haven’t had a chance to visit this year’s Fall Parade of Homes yet? Have no fear, the Fall Parade of Homes will continue for an extra two weeks this year!

Building with MHBA members always your best bet - MHBA

MHBA members adhere to association-set standards, maintaining the highest level of industry knowledge, and ensuring a safe job environment for all.

City of Winnipeg Water Services Division - Appointment Times Update

Latest update dated: January 23, 2023

Appointments in the North area are available for the next day.
All appointments in the East area are available for the next day.
Appointments in the South area are available for the next day.

The Utility Billing Centre is currently responding to builder's webform requests within 2-3 business days.

The MHBA has been asked by the City of Winnipeg’s Water Services to provide the following reminder to our members:

Before a water meter installation appointment can be scheduled, a contact phone number is required. Please provide Water Services with a phone number where you can be reached during the day, evening or weekend.

To ensure customer’s and employee’s safety during the pandemic, you will receive a phone call, approximately 1 day prior to the appointment date, to ask you questions related to COVID-19. If the City is unable to reach you at the phone number you provide, your appointment will be cancelled.

When you respond to this email with a phone number, your appointment will be scheduled.

Bring CSAM On Tour to YOUR Jobsite

CSAM On Tour provides safety information, resources, and practical demonstrations right on your jobsite. It will refresh your employees' knowledge on fall arrest, eye protection, hand safety, and safe lifting.

CSAM’s team of safety advisors will come to your jobsite to directly provide safety information on four specific topics:

Fall Arrest

See the importance of using appropriate fall arrest equipment. CSAM’s safety advisors will demonstrate a fall enactment so you can witness the difference between wearing an approved shock-absorbing lanyard and a non-shock-absorbing lanyard.

Hand Safety

See first-hand how wearing appropriate hand protection can reduce your chances of injury. Experience a demonstration of cut-resistant versus non-cut-resistant gloves that are practical to use in construction.

Eye Protection

See the importance of wearing proper, approved eye protection. This demo clearly shows the difference in protection between approved and non-approved eyewear when coming in contact with a high-impact object, such as a nail from an air-nailer.

Safe Lifting

See how proper lifting techniques can reduce back injuries. Watch a demonstration that shows the impact lifting has on your body. We will also demonstrate how using your legs to lift can reduce injuries to your back.

To bring CSAM On Tour to your jobsite, complete the form HERE.

City of Winnipeg: Request for Meter Install & Exchange Webform Submission

The City of Winnipeg has provided the MHBA with infographic instructions to help our members navigate their online Water Meter Installation request form. City administration have indicated that their response times to requests received via the online form are significantly faster than email requests.

View the infographic instructions HERE.

Access the online request form HERE.

Manitoba Hydro: Customer Service Centres

Manitoba Hydro has provided an interactive resource map to help builders find the appropriate point of contact for all areas of the province. This map will allow you to search an address to see which area it falls into in order to find the right contact.

View the Customer Service Contacts HERE.