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Volume 30-2023 | Wednesday, July 26, 2023 | www.mbex.org | |
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Weather forecast: π₯ HOT π₯
With temps ranging in the 90s, take special care and precaution when out and about on the jobsite. Modify work schedules, arrange frequent rest and water breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas, drink plenty of fluids often and BEFORE you're thirsty, avoid beverages with alcohol and caffeine, slather on the sunscreen, and dress in lightweight, loose-fitting, and light-colored clothing.
Use the buddy system, and let someone know if you or a team member feel dizzy, weak, stop sweating, or appear to be confused and/or unable to think clearly. These could be signs of Heat Exhaustion or Heat Stroke. Stay safe and look forward to cooler temps soon!
IN THIS WEEK'S ISSUE:
β’ Register Now: Join MBEX in Duluth for the annual Sporting Clays North event
β’ Sign Here: Non-compete agreements and the independent contractor
β’ Hire a Veteran: 10 reasons why your crew should hire veterans
β’ Staying Safe: Minnesota's new cannabis law and the construction worksite
β’ The Maven Slim Pant: Discover Dovetail Workwear, and 4 more construction
headlines worth reading
β’ Member Benefit: Save on fleet fueling with Kwik Trip
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Registration Now Open for Sporting Clays North | |
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Get your shotguns locked and loaded. The Minnesota Builders Exchange is proud to present its annual Sporting Clays North, and we can't wait to see you all in action!
β’ DATE: Wednesday, September 6
β’ TIME: Shooting begins at 3:00pm
β’ LOCATION: Old Vermillion Trail (3960 Old Vermillion Trail, Duluth, Minn., 55803)
β’ COST: $100 per shooter | Includes clay shoot, dinner, post-shoot social & awards
Whether you're an ace shooter or just looking for a fun afternoon with colleagues and fellow industry professionals, this event is tailor-made for you. Bring your enthusiasm and your team spirit β we'll take care of the rest.
Each team can have up to five shooters; if needed, MBEX will group participants together. Don't worry; we'll keep the vibes friendly, but the competition will be sizzling.
Beyond clay-busting, this Sporting Clays North is all about celebrating sportsmanship and bringing our awesome MBEX community together. Laughter, high-fives, and unforgettable memories guaranteed. Register Here
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Non-Compete Agreements for Independent Contractors | |
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Effective as of July 1, 2023, Minnesota has banned employment non-compete agreements and restricted provisions that require non-Minnesota laws or venues for disputes.
The ban applies to any agreement that would restrict the employee or independent contractor, after termination from performing:
(1) work for another employer for a specified period of time;
(2) work in a specified geographical area; or
(3) work for another employer that is similar in nature to the employee's previous role.
The bill applies to both employees and independent contractors, regardless of income. The bill also restricts employers from including choice-of-law or choice-of-venue provisions that require disputes to be resolved outside of Minnesota or to require the application of non-Minnesota law. Learn More
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ON THE BLOG:
10 Reasons Why Your Crew Should Hire Veterans
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When looking to add exceptional talent to your construction company or firm, don't overlook the immense potential of one particular group that stands above the rest --- veterans.
These brave men and women bring a unique set of skills and qualities to the table, making them exceptional hires and top-notch members of your team. As today (July 25) is National Hire a Veteran Day, let's dive into 10 reasons why veterans are the perfect fit for your construction crew. Read More
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Minnesota's New Cannabis Law | |
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Minnesota's new cannabis law amends the state's Consumable Products Act (CPA) to protect off-duty cannabis use. The law also amends Minnesota's Drug and Alcohol Testing in the Workplace Act (DATWA) by excluding cannabis from the definition of "drug" and by creating two different workplace drug testing schemes based on whether positions are exempt from the cannabis testing prohibitions.
The Association of General Contractors (AGC) included the following in their July 21, 2023, newsletter regarding the new Minnesota cannabis law:
"The Minnesota Cannabis law is new and provokes questions, uncertainties, and potentially, problems. One key unknown is how it applies to construction zones. AGC-MN's position is that the construction worksite is exempt from the new law because the worksite is safety sensitive. This means that, for the construction worksite, AGC believes that there should be no change in your drug policies or procedures, and anyone on the worksite (a) can be tested for cannabis consistent with the other drug and testing laws, and (b) be disciplined or terminated if cannabis is found consistent with your policies and drug laws."
AGC suggests that you consult with an attorney and update your business' policies to clarify that for persons going on a construction worksite, cannabis is still considered a drug under Minnesota law. Other sites (such as a non-construction worksite, like an office) would be subject to the new Minnesota law permitting cannabis use.
To help raise awareness of this important safety issue, AGC created this template for companies to print as a poster or flyer for use within construction zones.
Answers to frequently asked questions regarding the new law on adult-use cannabis can be found here.
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August 2 (Wednesday) - Harbor Cruise Aboard the Sundew
Join MBEX aboard the Sundew, a retired Coast Guard Cutter, for a sunset cruise on Lake Superior and an evening of fun and comradery. Space is limited to the first 150 people; don't delay! Register Here
August 9 (Wednesday) - St. Paul Saints with AGC
Space at this event is now sold out. Please contact Merry Beckmann if you'd like to be on the wait list or purchase a sponsorship.
August 10 (Thursday) - Sporting Clays Scholarship Fundraiser
Aim, pull and shoot to support the MBEX Scholarship Fund at this annual outdoor
event. Event is limited to the first 160 shooters, and the roster is nearly full. Register Here
August 23 (Wednesday) - Golf North
Socialize and network on the greens of Ridgeview County Club in Duluth for what
we FORE!-see to be a fantastic event. Register Here
September 4 (Monday) - Labor Day
MBEX will be closed in observance of the holiday. Please plan accordingly.
September 11 & 13 - Reading Construction Documents (online class)
From navigating title block information to combing through specification documents, participants will learn how to navigate a project and understand the material and construction requirements. This class is taught by Troy DeGroot with UChpater2. Register Here
Remember, if you are an employee of a current MBEX member company, you are welcome to attend any and all MBEX events.
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π·οΈ Construction Input Prices Remain Unchanged in June, Inflation Slowing
Overall construction input prices are 4.9% lower than a year ago, while nonresidential construction input prices are 4.5% lower. Prices decreased in all three energy subcategories in June. Crude petroleum prices were down 5.9%, while natural gas prices fell 5.3%. Unprocessed energy materials prices decreased 5.0% for the month.
ο»Ώ(Building Design + Construction)
π§ $380M for Transportation Project Grants Announced by Gov. Walz
MnDOT will allocate $380 million to fund eight new infrastructure projects through the state's Corridors of Commerce program, according to a statement released by Governor Tim Walz on July 11, 2023. The projects are part of the fourth round of Corridors of Commerce funding provided by the Minnesota Legislature, including a total of $403 million --- $250 million authorized by the Legislature in 2021, and $153 million provided in 2023. A total of $22 million will be reserved for project readiness activities for potential future projects. (Fox 9 - KMSP)
Projects receiving funding in 2023 include:
β’ TH 13 (Savage/Burnsville) - Grade separations from Quentin to Nicollet Aves: $96,000,000
β’ I-94 (Albertville to Monticello) - Lane expansion: $78,000,000
β’ TH 14 / CSAH 44 (Byron) - Construct a grade separation: $60,000,000
β’ TH 371 / TH 210 (Baxter) - Construct a grade separation: $58,000,000
β’ TH 23 / MN 9 (New London) - Construct a grade separation: $33,000,000
β’ TH 65 (Blaine) - Grade separations from 103rd to 117th Aves: $30,000,000
β’ TH 53 (Eveleth to Virginia) - Roadway improvements: $18,000,000
β’ TH 10 (Coon Rapids) - Lane expansion from CSAH 78 to CSAH 9: $8,000,000
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π·π½ββοΈ This Women-Led Business is Redefining Construction Workwear
When landscape designer Kate Day moved to Portland, Oregon, in 2009, she worked in the dirt and flowers with friend and fellow landscaper Kyle Marie Begley. In 2013 the pair decided to open a landscaping business. Shortly after, the friends ran into one major frustration: their workwear. They just needed a pair of workpants that fit and functioned. With the help of their client, Sara DeLuca, the women spent a year developing the perfect pants for their own personal needs --- gardening, landscaping, etc. Thus, the Maven Slim Pant was born. It was a perfect mid-rise design with plenty of pockets and just enough structure while still allowing for comfortable movement. Day and DeLuca cofounded Dovetail Workwear in 2018 and has been designing and producing functional, fashionable, and durable gear supporting women in trade, outdoor, transportation and beyond. (Construction Executive)
π¦Ί OSHA Proposes Rule to Clarify PPE Standard for Construction Industry
The current standard does not state clearly that PPE must fit each affected employee properly, which OSHA's general industry and maritime standards do. The proposed change would clarify that PPE must fit each employee properly to protect them from occupational hazards. The news follows the U.S. Department of Labor and OSHA's previous announcement regarding a National Emphasis Program to protect workers by preventing falls, the leading cause of fatalities in the workplace. (Scaffold & Access Magazine)
π Gillette Stadium Showcases $250M Renovations
Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Mass., showcased its $250 million renovation --- the most transformational upgrade since opening in 2002. Upgrades coming to the stadium include a 22-story signature lighthouse with a 360-degree observation deck, a completely reimagined Enel Plaza, and a new grand staircase leading to the concourse. Fans will also be able to see skylines of Boston and Providence from the lighthouse's deck. (ABC 6 - Rhode Island News)
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SURVEY: Scope of Construction Labor Shortages
| β’ SURVEY CLOSES: Monday, August 14 | |
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AGC of America wants to understand exactly how labor shortages, supply chain challenges and inflation are impacting the construction industry. Please take a few minutes to complete the following workforce survey that AGC and their partners at Autodesk have prepared.
The more people understand the scope, and consequences, of current labor market conditions, the more likely AGC will be able to convince public officials to enact measures to help meet the industry's needs. Take AGC's Survey
Contact Brian Turmail for more information.
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TBG Clay Shoot for the Trades | |
β’ DATE: Tuesday, August 29
β’ TIME: 1:00pm-5:30pm
ο»Ώβ’ LOCATION: Game Unlimited (Hudson, Wisc.)
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The TBG Education Foundation is hosting their annual clay shoot with dinner and
awards to celebrate the work that has been done for the future of the trades! Join
TBG for a fun afternoon of shooting, camaraderie and good times with friends from around the trades as funds are raised to further the work of the Foundation. Sign up
ο»Ώas an individual or in groups up to five. Register Here
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4th Annual Sunbelt Rentals Sporting Clays Shoot
ο»ΏBenefiting the Gary Sinise Foundation
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β’ DATE: Tuesday, September 19
β’ TIME: Registration - 11:30am | Shooting - 1:00pm | Dinner - 5:30pm
β’ LOCATION: Minnesota Horse & Hunt Club (Prior Lake, Minn.)
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Join Sunbelt Rentals for a day of fun and friendly competition as they fundraise on
behalf of their partnership with the Gary Sinise Foundation. Register as an individual,
ο»Ώa four-shooter team, a five-shooter team, or a six-shooter team by September 9, 2023. Registration includes shotgun shells, a t-shirt, and dinner. Download Flyer | Register Here
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Members save on fleet fueling with Kwik Trip. | |
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Exclusive to MBEX members, join Kwik Trip's fuel discount program and receive:
β’ 7-cents off per gallon on gasoline and diesel at Kwik Trip locations
β’ 10% off most in-store products, including car washes and auto supplies
β’ Access to Kwik Trip programs, such as Data Tracker, Extended Fleet, and the Business Plus MasterCard
β’ Ability to track transactions
β’ Create customized security and restrictions
β’ Access detailed expense reporting
β’ Set up online account management
β’ And much more!
Email Tanner Benson or call for more information and to apply | Download Kwik Trip flyer
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PROJECT INFORMATION + UPDATES | |
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β’ Total Projects Received at MBEX from 7/17/2023 - 7/21/2023: 83
β’ Total Active Projects Received/Reported on at MBEX as of 7/25/2023: 311
β’ Total Projects in the Online Plan Room as of 7/25/2023: 3,062
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Click the button above to view the most recent project data from 7/19/2023-7/25/2023.
For information about the Bulletin's content, technical issues, or to place an ad (such as a Minority
ο»ΏNotice, Job Posting, or Event Notice), contact Ashlee, Membership + Communications Manager.
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UPCOMING MBEX EVENTS
β’ August 2 - Sundew Harbor Cruise
β’ August 9 - St Paul Saints with AGC
β’ August 10 - Sporting Clays Fundraiser
β’ August 23 - Golf North
β’ September 4 - Labor Day - MBEX Closed
β’ September 6 - Sporting Clays North
β’ September 11 & 13 - Documents
Reading Class (online) with UChapter2
β’ October 12 - Fall Social & POWER
Self-Care Health Fair
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Connect with the Builders Exchange: | |
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The information in this bulletin was obtained from sources deemed reliable. The Minnesota Builders Exchange (MBEX) does not assume responsibility for its completeness or accuracy. You are urged to check your own sources in addition to the information contained in this publication. This issue contains plans and other bidding information received prior to and including the date noted above. The project data within this newsletter is intended for member company's and their employees use only.
2023 BOARD OFFICERS: President - Greg Grazzini, Grazzini Brothers & Co; Vice President - Mike Carlson, Max Gray Construction; Treasurer - Heidi Sedlacek, Bituminous Roadways; Past President - Randy LaFaive, Market & Johnson | 2023 DIRECTORS: David Brandt, Schadegg Mechanical; Jason DuVal, Tenet; Chuck Geisler, American Engineering Testing; Brian Kalla, St. Cloud Acoustics; Sean Ochis, Northern Industrial Insulation; Jason Rentmeester, Kraus-Anderson Construction; Andy Ristrom, Carl Bolander & Sons; and Nate Sapik, Benson Electric Company | STAFF: David Siegel, Executive Director; Julie Miller, Executive Assistant/Project Coordinator/Accounting; Jeff Boelter, Project Acquisition & IT; Ashlee Hartwig, Membership & Communications Manager; Don O'Connor, Duluth Branch Manager; Ka Yang, Peggy Esboldt, Janet Margheim, Wes Morden & Shauna Baska, Project Reporters
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