As we approach this summer’s building season I would like to remind everyone to please take the time to think about safety. Be sure that all of your equipment, tools and machinery are in good working order. Implement a safety program if you do not already have one. If you don’t have one you can find many starter programs online to help you get started.

City Update:  The City of Bloomington is proposing new language to be added to the somewhat vague Contractor Registration ordinance. This ordinance requires all “contractors” performing most all facets of construction to obtain a Certificate of Registration. We as builders should embrace this as one more step to help those who are registered to not get beat out of jobs by lesser qualified contractors. This is finally one change that is not resulting in any fee increase, but I am sure as most of you know by now, we have been hit in another area. BNWRD has increased its fee by nearly $138.00 for every new home permit issued after May 1^st.

Building Update:  We are tentatively scheduled to close on the BNAHBA new office during the first part of May.  Again we greatly appreciate all of the donations to date. The final building plans have been agreed upon and are being finalized with the architect to be submitted to the City of Bloomington for plan review. If you are interested in bidding any portion of work please call Lisa or myself to get a copy of the plans, we would greatly appreciate any support you can give. I would also like to extend a special thanks to Steve Parker, Doug Parker, Mike Temple, Tony Young, Evelyn Yowell, Guy DiCiaula, Jack Ruch and Dave Schultz for their time in getting us to where we are today with the building plans.

Thanks to everyone who attended the PAC day in Springfield, it is always a good eye-opener to help understand how our government works. Keep your schedules open for the upcoming golf outing and Peoria Chiefs game as it is always a good time for all.

Please feel free to call me with any questions or concerns any time at 275-1580.

                                                                                                Brad Ropp

                                                                                                Johnston Builders