Habitat for Humanity of Michigan

Previous Construction Council Meeting Minutes: January 27, 2010

A presentation was made during the lunch hour for all attendees at the HOMES Green Building Summit.  This was done as an introduction of the Construction Council for those that were unaware, and a refresher for others that have been a part of the Round Table discussions in the past.

Announcement: Thom Phillips

Introduction with History of the formation of the Construction Council Round Table: Bill Moerdyk

Prayer: Bill Moerdyk

Discussion on “Adaptable” vs “Accessible” Design: Bill Moerdyk

Bill took a survey of the individuals that are addressing one or both of these features in their homes already.  He defined the terms as the following:

                Adaptable:  (Many affiliates confirmed that they do this) To have features that can be easily modified by removing barriers and adding accessible elements to address the changes over time of aging and abilities.  This would include items such as zero step entries, blocking in walls for future grab bars, and clear spaces of five foot radius or 4 foot square in front of lavs, toilets, and sinks.  This would also include Main floor Bedrooms and Laundry. 

                Accessible:  (Four or five affiliates confirmed that they do this) To have an environment that is readily usable by people with different needs and abilities.  These are permanently fixed items such as roll in showers, lowered counters, and handrails installed on both sides of stairways.

Discussion on using Federal Dollars with Rehabs vs. New: Dave Zimmermann

Dave took a survey, and very few affiliates were using NSP funds.  He discussed the nuances of submitting work specifications to the city and working with different inspectors and city personnel on interpreting the standards provided by the government.  

Many affiliates noted that they are building to Energy Star Standards and getting ratings performed.  Discussion was had on the importance of spending time with the HERS rater to learn better building techniques.  Kent County has Site Supervisors present when the blower door test is being performed.  It was explained that building to Energy Star is probably 75% on the way towards LEED certification already. 

Discussion of the costs of Rehabs vs. new building:

Kent County has not seen any savings, saying their costs are higher.  They have the added costs of dealing with Asbestos and Lead abatement in order to comply with NSP funds.  Another affiliate said that their rehab had a cost savings of 40%.  We are not sure if this affiliate had either these added costs included in their work or the cost of the building included.

Affiliates shared the prices they are paying for Rehab properties.  The purchase prices ranged from less than $10,000 to almost $40,000. 

Discussion on  interest in volume buying for the State affiliates, particularly windows

There was huge interest.  Dave shared some costing for vinyl, single hung windows from MI Windows out of Pennsylvania.   More will be looked into from Thom Philips and Dave Z for the future meeting.