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Volume 36 - 2023 | Wednesday, September 6, 2023 | www.mbex.org | |
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When air conditioners pull heat out of a home, it's expelled outside --- and all that heat is wasted in the process. But geothermal systems capture and use the heat that's stored underground, just below the frost line, where soil temperatures are relatively stable.
In front of Rochester's City Hall, two geothermal wells are being drilled and will eventually provide carbon-free heating and cooling for the city's headquarters. The wells are one part of the city's strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 100 percent over the next three decades.
If all goes as planned, this project will help heat and cool at least 1-million-square-feet of downtown space, including Mayo Civic Center and the public library.
Like air conditioners, but in reverse.
IN THIS WEEK'S ISSUE:
• Extra! Extra! Check out the first issue of MBEX Blueprint
• Minimum Wages: New minimum wage rates go into effect January 1, 2024
• Oooohhhmmmm: Join us October 10 for the Fall Social + Self-Care Health Fair
• Going Up: Latest elevator safety code includes 100+ updates
• Keep The Grounds: Catching construction errors with BIM, and five more construction headlines worth reading
• Member Benefit: Paint for less with Sherwin-Williams
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Read the first issue of the MBEX Blueprint
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This inaugural edition dives headfirst into our world of commercial construction, member news, and then some, packed with articles that are as insightful as they are entertaining.
Inside this issue, you'll:
• Discover the latest in construction sustainability trends;
• Meet our Board of Directors;
• Explore what's in your employee onboarding;
• Revisit MBEX events, like the 2023 Annual Meeting and Twin Cities Golf Tournament;
• And more!
Enjoy this issue either in print or digitally. A printed copy was mailed to all members; if you didn't receive it or would like to request more copies, please email Ashlee.
Correction: The location of the 2022 Golf North event featured on page 13 of this first issue was listed incorrectly. The event was held at Ridgeview Country Club in Duluth, Minn. We apologize for the error.
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Minimum-Wage Rates Adjusted for Inflation as of January 1st | |
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Minnesota's minimum-wage rates will be adjusted for inflation on January 1, 2024, to $10.85 an hour for large employers and $8.85 an hour for other state minimum wages, which is an increase of 2.5% for both.
As of January 1st:
• Large employers --- with annual gross revenues of at least $500,000 --- must pay at least $10.85 an hour.
• Small employers --- with annual gross revenues less than $500,000 --- must pay at least $8.85 an hour.
• The training wage rate, $8.85 an hour, must be paid to employees younger than 20 years of age for the first 90 consecutive days of employment.
• The youth wage rate, $8.85 an hour, may be paid to employees younger than 18 years of age.
The state minimum-wage rates will not apply to work performed in the cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul, which have higher minimum-wage rates. As part of Minnesota's employee notice requirement, employers are required to provide each employee with a written notice of any change before the change takes effect, including a change to the employee's rate of pay. Learn More
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Join Us October 10 for the Fall Social & Self-Care Health Fair | |
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Join MBEX for a vibrant afternoon of connection and wellness education at the annual MBEX Fall Social and first-ever POWER Self-Care Health Fair on Tuesday, October 10 at Pinstripes Edina Bowling and Bocce.
This event is open to both MBEX members and non-members alike to gather with fellow professionals in the construction and building industry for an enriching experience that combines networking and rejuvenation.
Early Bird tickets are available for MBEX members now through September 15 at $45 per person; non-member tickets are $65 per person. Sponsorship opportunities are also available.
Why should you attend?
🤝 Networking
Connect with industry peers, fellow builders, contractors, architects, and suppliers in a relaxed and welcoming environment. Share insights, discuss upcoming projects, and build valuable relationships that go beyond business.
🌱 Self-Care Health Fair
Explore a variety of wellness stations designed to provide you with practical tools for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. From stress reduction techniques to ergonomic best practices, you'll find valuable resources to enhance your overall health.
🎓 2023-2024 Scholarship Recipients
Recognize and celebrate this year's MBEX / TBG Construction Scholarship awardees, meet them, and help in their professional network development.
🎁 Raffles + Door Prizes
Participate in our exciting 50/50 and SuperCash raffles by purchasing your tickets at the event! We'll also be giving away several major door prizes, including a special giveaway for an individual who visits all our Health Fair vendors. You never know, you could walk away with something that contributes to your continued self-care journey.
🍻 Food Stations + Refreshments
Savor delicious bites while you mingle and unwind, and indulge in seasonal treats and beverages to celebrate the fall season.
We look forward to seeing you there!
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Elevator Safety Code Has More Than 100 Changes | |
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A new version of ASME A17.1 / CSA B44, a safety code for elevators, escalators, and related equipment developed by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, will be released this month.
This code updated every three years, and the latest version includes over 100 revisions. The changes include provisions related to:
• Remote interaction operation (ROI) and cybersecurity integration;
• Flood detection operation;
• Hoistway lighting;
• Emergency Responder Radio Coverage (ERRC) that enhances communication throughout the building in emergency situations; and
• Pit ladder or diagnostic tools that enhance safety for workers and potentially riders.
Adoption of this code may vary from jurisdiction, with some using an auto-adopt process and others continuing to follow safety codes from 20 years ago. Learn More
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September 11 & 13 - Reading Construction Documents (online class)
Enrolling now! 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
October 10 - MBEX Fall Social & POWER Self-Care Health Fair
Registration Now Open! This widely-popular networking event provides an opportunity for attendees to socialize and mingle with other industry representatives in a casual, yet professional, atmosphere. New this year is the first-ever POWER Self-Care Health Fair, opening the full event to both MBEX members and non-members. Register Here
October 16-20 - Construction Inclusion Week 2023
Construction Inclusion Week is the first effort to harness the collective power of general contractors, specialty contractors, subcontractors, and suppliers. Initially launched in 2021 as an industry-wide awareness initiative, Construction Inclusion Week aims to build awareness of the need to improve diversity and inclusion in the construction industry by providing content and resources. Learn More
November 27 & 29 - 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
NOTE: 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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📊 Construction Industry Report: August 2023
Most indicators remained flat or slightly improved. Overall, growth or expected growth in the industry remain the norm. (Trimble)
Producer Price Index: 0.0% change
Flat compared to June 2023 | Down 3.1% from July 2022
Construction Backlog Indicator: 9.3 months
Up 4.5% from June 2023 | Up 7% from July 2022
Architecture Billings Index:
Billings Decreased to 50 | Design Contracts Decreased to 50
Construction Confidence Index:
Staffing Increased to 60.4 | Sales Decreased to 57.9 | Profits Increased to 55
Construction Spend: $1.94 trillion
Up 0.5% from May 2023 | Up 3.4% from June 2022
🚧 The Roads of the Future Could Be Paved with Plastic
Despite the fact that waste plastic can be recycled, in the U.S. less than 10% of it actually is. Part of the problem is a lack of demand for the plastic coming out of recycling facilities. But according to researchers from Stanford University, viable ways to reuse waste plastics are hiding in plain sight. From roads to building facades to drainage pipes, many common infrastructure and construction projects could easily be made using recycled plastic. (Fast Company)
🎧 85 Decibels or Higher
Continuous or intermittent noise exposure greater than 85 decibels (dB) over a prolonged period can result in noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), one of the most prevalent occupational conditions occurring across a wide spectrum of industries, including construction. According to the CDC, 14% of all construction employees report significant difficulty hearing due to job-related noise. Early signs of NIHL can include speech that sounds muffled, a ringing sensation in the ears, difficult following a conversation with background noise, and a need to ask others to repeat themselves or speak more loudly. (Construction Executive)
⬆️ Employment Increases in 45 States and D.C. from July 2022 to July 2023
Between July 2022 and July 2023, 45 states and D.C. added construction jobs, while industry employment declined in four states and held steady in Vermont. Texas added the most construction jobs over the year (25,200 jobs or 3.2%), followed by California (13,800 jobs, 1.5%), Ohio (13,100 jobs, 5.6%), and Georgia (10,200 jobs, 4.8%). (Construction Superintendent)
🚫 Using BIM to Identify Construction Errors
Cloud-based platforms now enhance the experience of sharing and collaborating over data with ease. BIM, or Building Information Modeling, is constantly changing how the building industry collaborates and constructs. Using BIM in construction can catch construction errors and lower project costs by exposing inconsistencies early. BIM's capacity to take data and extend its use by giving it significance to other industries can be beneficial to construction contractors. (For Construction Pros)
🏅 LOCAL HEADLINE
How Minnesota's Mortenson Became a Top Contactor for U.S. Sports Venues
In the late 1980s, Golden Valley-based M.A. Mortenson Co. earned the title of general contractor of Target Center, the arena in downtown Minneapolis that became the home of the Minnesota Timberwolves NBA franchise and its WNBA counterpart, the Minnesota Lynx. The $73 million project opened in 1990 and was the fruition of the construction company's first modern arena contract. It also marked the beginning of its sports and entertainment division. During the past 30 years, Mortenson has completed more than 230 sports venues valued at more than $15 billion, winning several awards for design, engineering and sustainability along the way. (Star Tribune)
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Mortenson Construction executives (left to right): Derek Cunz, John Wood, Ken Sorenson, Lynn Littlejohn, and Allen Troshinsky on the field of the newly build U.S. Bank Stadium back in July 2016. Photo: Nancy Kuehn | |
Finance & Commerce's Rising Young Professionals | • NOMINATIONS DUE: Friday, September 15 | |
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Finance and Commerce is seeking nominations for young business professionals who have demonstrated leadership, contributed to their community and successfully achieved positive outcomes early in their career.
On December 7, 2023, Finance and Commerce will honor the rising stars of Minnesota's business community making an impact in Minnesota's commercial real estate, business, or construction industries.
Nominations close on Friday, September 15. Learn More
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4th Annual Sunbelt Rentals Sporting Clays Shoot
Benefiting the Gary Sinise Foundation
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• DATE: Tuesday, September 19
• TIME: Registration - 11:30am | Shooting - 1:00pm | Dinner - 5:30pm
• 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,
a 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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Health Hazards in Construction
Presented by Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry
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• DATE: Tuesday, September 19
• TIME: 7:00am - 8:30am
• LOCATION: In-person at the MnDOT Training and Conference Center (Shoreview) or virtually via Microsoft Teams
• PRESENTER: Janet Keyes, certified industrial hygienist and an AIHA fellow
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Health hazards on construction sites are often overlooked, but are as damaging to workers as safety hazards. The free Focus Four for Health guidance document, developed by the American Industrial Hygiene Association's (AIHA's) Construction Committee in 2020, targets four prevalent health hazards in construction: air contaminants; heat; material handling; and noise.
This free Minnesota OSHA Compliance Construction Seminar will include descriptions of the four hazards and an overview of how these hazards can be addressed. Join in person or virtually. Download Focus Four for Health | Register Here (registration not needed if attending in-person)
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How Prefabrication is Shaping Multi-Family Developments
Presented by Wells Concrete
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• DATE: Thursday, September 21
• TIME: 11:00am
• LOCATION: Online
• PRESENTERS: Jim Clapper - Regional Sales Manage & Ever Esparza - Project Manager
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Multi-family developments are complex buildings, with many design considerations at the onset. When it comes to the design and construction, development decisions are driven by ROI, speed of construction, site constraints and appearance.
To meet these drivers, prefabrication offers many options ranging from architectural cladding, to parking, to total precast, a highly durable architectural and structural solution. In this webinar, experts will provide valuable insights on the options available and how to bring a project to life. Register Here
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Exclusive discounts and personalized service from the nation's largest retailor of paints, coatings, and painting supplies | |
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Time for a refresh? MBEX members who join NPP get exclusive discounts and personalized service from the nation's largest specialty retailer of paints, coatings, and painting supplies. Order online and get a fast order turnaround at more than 4,900 stores nationwide.
• National pricing on chemical, architectural and industrial coatings
• Special discounts on paint supplies and rollers
• Free services for on-site inspection, consultation and order planning
• Online ordering available with in-store pick-up or site delivery
• And more.
MBEX Members can sign up with NPP for free to access this discount and more. Enroll your business | Learn more about Sherwin-Williams savings
NPP is a member benefit provider of MBEX, offering savings on products and services that businesses and employees use everyday.
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PROJECT INFORMATION + UPDATES | |
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• Total Projects Received at MBEX from 8/28/2023 - 9/1/2023: 74
• Total Active Projects Received/Reported on at MBEX as of 9/5/2023: 290
• Total Projects in the Online Plan Room as of 9/5/2023: 3,545
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Click the button above to view the most recent project data from 8/30/2023-9/5/2023.
For information about the Bulletin's content, technical issues, or to place an ad (such as a Minority
Notice, Job Posting, or Event Notice), contact Ashlee, Membership + Communications Manager.
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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
You are receiving this email because you are employed by a current member company in good standing or have indicated you wanted to receive MBEX's Weekly Bulletin. Unsubscribe from the Weekly Bulletin
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