Kudos to MHBA's 75th-anniversary year

As 2012 draws to a close and a new year begins, the Manitoba Home Builders' Association wants to take this opportunity to recognize and thank those people who made this past year a success.

The residential construction industry is a huge part of Manitoba's economy, accounting for a $3-billion impact -- more than 24,300 jobs and $1.2 billion in wages and generating hundreds of millions of dollars in government tax revenue.

Of course, initial kudos must go to the volunteers and staff that drive the MHBA. There are 10 standing committees of the association with approximately 10 representatives per committee. That means 100 people are giving their time and expertise to the MHBA each year.

That means that numerous companies recognize the importance of being involved in their professional association. It doesn't work without this kind of commitment.

The MHBA presents both large and small events. The Spring and Fall Parades of Homes are the largest and best run in Canada. The Home Expressions Show in March and the Kitchen Bath and Renovation Show in January are the largest events held in the Convention Centre. More than

120,000 people attend these four very public events annually.

The MHBA also hosts Housing Forums, educational seminars, awards evenings, dinner meetings, golf and curling outings and a variety of other activities that encourage interaction and professional development among members.

A huge thank-you goes to all of the various sponsors, too many to list, but many of whom can be found in the individual categories of the MHBA web site.

Legislation, policies, practices and procedures can be frustrating at the best of times. However, without full consultation, they can be almost impossible. Recognition and thanks must go to the open door policies of the Province of Manitoba and the City of Winnipeg.

The MHBA is the envy of other local and provincial home builders' associations due to the co-operative rather than confrontational approach taken by the city and province.

Local media ask tough but fair questions and report things as they are.

Fellow industry associations bond together for a common cause. And let's never forget those charitable organizations (especially Habitat and Variety) who are so close to our hearts and recognize the importance of housing.

This past year was the 75th anniversary of the MHBA. Thank you to everyone who made it a tremendous year.

Mike Moore is president of the Manitoba Home Builders' Association.

Republished from the Winnipeg Free Press print edition December 29, 2012 F4