CBBT: HBA Politics & Elections

Election Day Wrap Up - Amendment 3 Passes & Rep. Schoeller Elected Speaker Pro Tem!

2010-11-07T16:24:00.005-06:00

The "Vote Yes to Save Homes" initiative, referred to as Amendment 3 on the ballot, passed overwhelmingly on November 2. The final results: 83.7% voted "Yes", while only 16.3% voted "N0". The amendment prohibits transfer taxes on real estate.

Four of the five CBBT supported candidates were successful including Senator Jay Wasson (20), Senator Bob Dixon (30), Rep. Eric Burlison (136), and Rep. Kevin Elmer (141). Candidate John Sellars was defeated by a narrow margin in the 138th state house district by the incumbent.

Also in the news last week, former HBA Government Affairs director Rep. Shane Schoeller (139) was selected by the House Majority Caucus to serve as Speaker Pro Tem for the upcoming legislative session which begins January 5, 2011. The Speaker Pro Tem presides over the floor debate in the absence of the Speaker of the House. In addition, the Speaker Pro Tem is an ex-officio member of all House committees and is an integral member of the leadership team for the Missouri House of Representatives.

Election Day is Tuesday, November 2!

2010-10-31T22:21:00.001-05:00

Remember to vote in the general election on Tuesday, November 2! Based on candidate interviews with the HBA Government Affairs committee and their recommendations to your political action committee, the Coalition for Building a Better Tomorrow (CBBT) chose to financially support several area candidates including:

MISSOURI STATE SENATE

- Rep. Bob Dixon, Senate District 30

- Rep. Jay Wasson, Senate District 20

MISSOURI STATE REPRESENTATIVE

- Kevin Elmer, House District 141

- Rep. Eric Burlison, House District 136

- John Sellars, House District 138

Retention of Judges

For information regarding the retention of Judges, you can review judicial performance evaluations from lawyers and jurors for various sections of the state by clicking here.

Vote "Yes" to Save Homes -- Amendment 3

There are a number of Amendments and Propositions on the ballot November 2, as well. Earlier this year, the HBA of Greater Springfield board of directors endorsed Amendment 3 -- a ballot initiative to permanently protect homes from double taxation. See the video below and answers to common questions about Amendment 3 and you can visit the Vote "Yes" to Save Homes website by clicking here. Amendment 3 is simple and straightforward: “Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to prevent the state, counties, and other political subdivisions from imposing any new tax, including a sales tax, on the sale or transfer of homes or any other real estate?”

Other statewide ballot measures include:

Constitutional Amendment 1
Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to require the office of county assessor to be an elected position in all counties with a charter form of government, except counties with a population between 600,001-699,999?

It is estimated this proposal will have no costs or savings to state or local governmental entities.

Fair Ballot Language:
A “yes” vote will amend the Missouri Constitution to require that assessors in charter counties be elected officers. This proposal will affect St. Louis County and any county that adopts a charter form of government. The exception is for a county that has between 600,001-699,999 residents, which currently is only Jackson County.

A “no” vote will not change the current requirement for charter counties.

If passed, this measure will not have an impact on taxes.

Constitutional Amendment 2
Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to require that all real property used as a homestead by Missouri citizens who are former prisoners of war and have a total service-connected disability be exempt from property taxes?

The number of qualified former prisoners of war and the amount of each exemption are unknown, however, because the number who meet the qualifications is expected to be small, the cost to local governmental entities should be minimal. Revenue to the state blind pension fund may be reduced by $1,200.

Fair Ballot Language:
A “yes” vote will amend the Missouri Constitution to exempt from property taxes all real property used as a homestead by any Missouri citizen who is a former prisoner of war with a total service-connected disability.

A “no” vote will not add this exemption to the Missouri Constitution.

If passed, this measure will decrease property taxes for qualified citizens.

Proposition A
Shall Missouri law be amended to:
repeal the authority of certain cities to use earnings taxes to fund their budgets;
require voters in cities that currently have an earnings tax to approve continuation of such tax at the next general municipal election and at an election held every 5 years thereafter;
require any current earnings tax that is not approved by the voters to be phased out over a period of 10 years; and prohibit any city from adding a new earnings tax to fund their budget?

The proposal could eliminate certain city earnings taxes. For 2010, Kansas City and the City of St. Louis budgeted earnings tax revenue of $199.2 million and $141.2 million, respectively. Reduced earnings tax deductions could increase state revenues by $4.8 million. The total cost or savings to state and local governmental entities is unknown.

Fair Ballot Language:
A “yes” vote will amend Missouri law to repeal the authority of certain cities to use earnings taxes to fund their budgets. The amendment further requires voters in cities that currently have an earnings tax, St. Louis and Kansas City, to approve continuation of such tax at the next general municipal election and at an election held every five years or to phase out the tax over a period of ten years.

A “no” vote will not change the current Missouri law regarding earnings taxes.

If passed, this measure will impact taxes by removing the ability of cities to fund their budgets through earnings taxes. The only exception is that voters in cities that currently have an earnings tax may vote to continue such taxes.

Proposition B
Shall Missouri law be amended to:
require large-scale dog breeding operations to provide each dog under their care with sufficient food, clean water, housing and space; necessary veterinary care; regular exercise and adequate rest between breeding cycles; prohibit any breeder from having more than 50 breeding dogs for the purpose of selling their puppies as pets; and create a misdemeanor crime of “puppy mill cruelty” for any violations?

It is estimated state governmental entities will incur costs of $654,768 (on-going costs of $521,356 and one-time costs of $133,412). Some local governmental entities may experience costs related to enforcement activities and savings related to reduced animal care activities.

Fair Ballot Language:
A “yes” vote will amend Missouri law to require large-scale dog breeding operations to provide each dog under their care with sufficient food, clean water, housing and space; necessary veterinary care; regular exercise and adequate rest between breeding cycles. The amendment further prohibits any breeder from having more than 50 breeding dogs for the purpose of selling their puppies as pets. The amendment also creates a misdemeanor crime of “puppy mill cruelty” for any violations.

A “no” vote will not change the current Missouri law regarding dog breeders.

If passed, this measure will have no impact on taxes.

You can review actual ballot language on the Missouri Secretary of State's website by clicking here.

Sporting Clays Tournament Was A Blast - See Slide Show!

2010-09-26T20:59:00.007-05:00

It turned out to be a beautiful day to shoot clays and to raise funds for the Coalition For Building A Better Tomorrow, your political action committee. Thanks to all those who participated and sponsored the event. Slide show, sponsors and award recipients can be viewed below.

LUNCH SPONSOR: MEEK'S - THE BUILDER'S CHOICE

Participating Yards - Nixa, Republic, Sunshine St., and Kansas Expy.

GUN GIVEAWAY SPONSOR: BAILEY COMPANY

STAND SPONSORS: SAM BRADLEY HOMES and METRO APPLIANCES & MORE

Clay Sponsors: Arvest Bank, Sound of Freedom Indoor Gun Range

Congratulations to the Award Winners:

1st Place Team Award: Average Score of 79.8

Hogan Land Title - Chris Russell, Terry Ozborn, Tim Baker, Steve Bettes, John Russwurm

A Flight: (results out of 100 shots/pre-determined stand used to break ties)

1st Place - Steve Bettes, 93

2nd Place - Stan Triplett, 88

3rd Place - R.L. Bennett, 88

B Flight:

1st Place - Ryan Groeteke, 64

2nd Place - David Beebe, 63

3rd Place - Stoney Roberts, 63

C Flight:

1st Place - John O'Neil, 54

2nd Place - Greg Pickert, 54

3rd Place - Daniel Fugitt, 53

CBBT Sporting Clay Shoot - A Real Barrel of FUN!

2010-09-05T14:59:00.000-05:00

REGISTER NOW -- Tournament is almost full! The 2010 Sporting Clay Tournament is scheduled for Friday, September 24 at Ozark Shooters. Lunch will be served at noon and the tournament will begin at 1 pm for all participants. Thanks to our luncheon sponsor: Meek's - The Builder's Choice. All those participating in the tournament will be entered in the drawing to win the gun this year. Thanks to the Bailey Company, our gun sponsor.

This is always a fun event and helps us raise funds for a VERY important organization -- the Coalition for Building a Better Tomorrow -- your political action committee. This is your tool to elect officials who understand that a healthy housing industry is essential to economic prosperity. For registration form, click here.

What is the Coalition for Building a Better Tomorrow?

2010-08-22T20:09:00.000-05:00

What is the Coalition for Building a Better Tomorrow (CBBT)? It is your tool to elect officials who understand that a healthy housing industry is essential to economic prosperity. The Coalition, often referred to as the "CBBT", is the official political action committee of the Home Builders Association of Greater Springfield. The CBBT's goal is to recruit and support candidates for office who know that policies which nurture a healthy housing market result in job creation and strengthening the local economy.

Why does it matter to you who gets elected to local and state offices?

Officeholders make decisions everyday about mandatory regulatory policy, fees/taxes, planning and zoning -- all of which affect your business, community growth and economic development directly. Winston Churchill once said that public officials see business and industry in one of three ways: "Some regard private enterprise as if it were a predatory tiger to be shot. Others look upon it as a cow that they can milk. Only a handful see it for what it really is -- the strong horse that pulls the whole cart."

How do you want elected officeholders to view your business? As Churchill pointed out, government officials typically view your businesses in one of the three following ways:

-See your business as a PREDATORY TIGER TO BE SHOT
These are the politicians who believe government knows more about your business than you do. They don’t ask for your input even when making regulatory decisions which affect your industry. They trust government more than private enterprise and the free market. They never met red tape and regulation they didn’t like!

-See your business as a CASH COW
These are the politicians that see your business as the way to generate more revenue for government -- they never met a tax or new fee they didn’t like!

-See your business as the STRONG HORSE pulling the cart to market
These are the fellow citizens in public service who understand that our businesses fuel the engine that drives the economy. They understand we take the risk, create the jobs, and purchase goods that generate tax revenue for local governments. They want to remove the obstacles that hamper our progress and when they make decisions about our industry, they ask us for input. These are the people the CBBT works to elect to office.

What can you do to help elect those who understand a healthy housing industry is fundamental to healthy local economy? Support the CBBT financially by participating in and/or sponsoring our primary fundraising event, the Sporting Clay Tournament. The tournament is scheduled for Friday, September 24 this year -- download the registration form by clicking here.

The CBBT has a track record of success:

• Providing financial/grassroots support to HBA member Sam Clifton’s successful campaign for Nixa Mayor in ‘10.

• Creating a legislated alternative to mandatory residential fire sprinkler code adoption for the state and local jurisdictions. This is an overwhelming victory – no one can adopt mandatory residential fire sprinkler code until 2012 and now there is an alternative ordinance model for adopting a mandatory offer of fire sprinklers rather than mandatory installation.

• Successfully supporting and partnering on an initiative to elect pro-economic development candidates to Springfield City Council, three of whom were elected in April 2009.

• Successfully defeating mandates at the state and local level including impact fees, mandatory warranties and other costly, unnecessary regulations.

• Advocating for pro-housing legislation, such as the Right to Repair legislation which passed in 2005 and has proven to reduce liability insurance premiums in the state.

Election Day Victory for HBA Board Member Sam Clifton

2010-04-11T21:34:00.005-05:00

With higher than normal voter turn-out, builder and CBBT supported candidate Sam Clifton was victorious, receiving approx. 46% of the vote in a four-way race for Mayor. "I am eager to begin the process of engaging the citizens of Nixa in drafting a new strategic plan for the city," said Clifton. "I truly consider it a privilege to have this opportunity serve my community as Mayor."

Also in Nixa, past HBA board member Tom Maher unseated the Nixa board of aldermen incumbent in Ward 1 with 55% of the vote. In Ozark, HBA member Eddie Campbell unseated the city's Ward 3 incumbent alderman with 54% of the vote. As well, builder member Doug Pitts was elected to the Logan-Rogersville School Board.

Supporters Rally to Help Clifton Kick-Off Mayoral Campaign

2010-03-14T21:04:00.008-05:00

Friends, neighbors, family and fans of Sam Clifton, Millstone Custom Homes, attended the Kick-Off Rally for his Mayoral Campaign in Nixa last week. Clifton told the gathering he was looking forward to working with them directly to plan strategically for Nixa's future.

"I want to hear your ideas and priorities for our city," said Clifton. "I pledge to work with you to develop a long-range strategic plan for the City’s future that strengthens our local economy and quality of life.”

Nixa resident and community leader Peggy Taylor said of Clifton, “The outlook for the community is certainly looking up, with someone of Sam's caliber running for Mayor. His integrity and leadership skills make him the ideal person to serve and lead Nixa. I wholeheartedly support Sam Clifton for mayor.”

The HBA's political action committee, the Coalition for Building a Better Tomorrow, approved a contribution to Clifton's mayoral campaign. Sam has a proven track record of professional excellence and public/volunteer service:

-Construction Management degree, Missouri State

-Recognized as one of the “40 Under 40” by the Springfield Business Journal

-Rotary Member

-Nixa Public Building Corporation Board Member

-Christian County Permitting Board Member

-Missouri State Foundation Member

-Home Builders Association, Board Member

-Extreme Makeover: Home Edition Builder, 2009

-Multiple 417 “Home of the Year” Awards

-Volunteer coach for children’s sports teams; past Boy Scout leader and current Sunday School teacher

Sam and his wife Michelle have three children, Dustin (13), Taylor, (16), Nathan (9).

Want to become a fan on Facebook? You can at Sam Clifton for Mayor's Facebook page.

Sam Clifton for Mayor Rally on Tuesday, March 9

2010-03-07T22:41:00.002-06:00

HBA Builder and Board Member Sam Clifton, Millstone Homes,

is kicking off his campaign for Mayor of Nixa:

Tuesday, March 9

6pm to 8pm

Summit Room

Nixa Area Chamber of Commerce

105 Sherman Way, Suite 109

Nixa, MO

RSVP to: (417) 724-9787

CliftonforMayor@gmail.com

Come and Go Event!

Download Invitation by Clicking HERE!

HBA Secretary Clifton a Candidate for Nixa Mayor

2010-01-24T22:21:00.001-06:00

Past HBA board member Tom Maher also files as candidate for Nixa Alderman

Home builder Sam Clifton (Millstone Homes, LLC) this week announced his candidacy for mayor of Nixa. Clifton is one of four candidates to file as a candidate for mayor. The election will be held April 6, 2010. Clifton is a member of the board of directors of the Home Builders Association of Greater Springfield, where he currently serves in the office of board secretary. He was thrust into the public spotlight last year when he and his wife Michelle accepted the invitation to lead a massive building project for the ABC network's popular Extreme Makeover: Home Edition television program when a family from Fair Grove was selected to receive a new home. The project was unlike any normal construction project in scale and timeline. Under the Cliftons' leadership, the deserving family received an outstanding new home, that even was finished ahead of its ambitious six-day schedule.

In addition to owning and operating a successful home building business, Sam and Michelle Clifton are actively involved in the Nixa community and as supporters of the Nixa school system. Civic and business leaders in the community urged Clifton, who has never held elected office to consider running for mayor based on his natural leadership abilities, his reputation for integrity, and his passion for the city in which he lives.

Former alderman Tom Maher also threw his hat into the ring as a candidate for the Nixa board of aldermen. Maher is a past member of the HBA of Greater Springfield board of directors and manages the Nixa yard for Meek's - The Builders' Choice. Maher is a proven asset to the Nixa community whose track record as an alderman is one of being pro-growth, pro-small business, and pro-consumer.

Sponsors & Shooters Make Sporting Clays Tournament a Success for CBBT

2009-10-11T20:49:00.002-05:00

Many thanks to our sponsors and shooters for making this primary fundraising event of the HBA's political action committee, the Coalition for Building a Better Tomorrow, a huge success. Eight teams shot in the morning and 13 in the afternoon flight. Kudos to Chairman Mike Benna and the Sporting Clay Tournament Event Committee!

Morning Awards:

Highest Average Team Score - 72, Sam Bradley Homes/Arrowhead Building Supply Team
Rick Bryant
Kin Bradley
Roger Lea
Greg Linn

Highest Overall Individual Score - 85, Kin Bradley

Other Individual Awards: (Tie Breaker, Stand 1)
A Flight
1st, 85, Stuart Wetzel
2nd, 83, Charley Smith
3rd, 76, David Beebe
B Flight
1st, 63, Rick Bryant
2nd, 62, Scott Evans
3rd, 61, Todd Matthews
C Flight
1st, 53, Jamie VanStavern
2nd, 53, Derek Probst
3rd, 52, Tom Buckner

Afternoon Awards:

Highest Average Team Score - 75, R.L.'s Swimming Pools
R.L. Bennett
Scott Bracy
Ryan Groeteke
George Postma
Bill Shank

Highest Overall Individual Score - 89, R.L. Bennett

Other Individual Awards: (Tie Breaker Stand 1)
A Flight
1st, 86, Andy Brumfield
2nd, 85, Chad Uber
3rd, 82, Dale Popejoy
B Flight
1st, 65, Greg Pickert
2nd, 65, Brandon Finn
3rd, 65, Avery Crow
C Flight
1st, 53, Ken Loyd
2nd, 53, Dennis Hesse
3rd, 53, Kevin Clingan

Winner of the pistol drawing - Todd Matthews
Winner of the shotgun drawing - Brandon Davis
Congratulations!

Thank you to our Event Sponsor:
MEEK'S - THE BUILDER'S CHOICE

Thank you to our Stand Sponsors:
Arrowhead Building Supply
Sam Bradley Homes
Beaman Electric
Galin Homes
Meek's - Republic Yard
Metro Builders Supply
Bailey Company
Naught-Naught Agency
Kevin Clingan Home Design & Construction
Fiberlite Technologies

Thank you to our Clay Sponsors:
B&B Insulation
Heartwood Lumber Sales
R.L.’s Swimming Pools
Missouri Insulation & Supply
Southern Materials Company
Steward Construction
Citizens National Bank
Stoneridge Carpets
H.B. Wall & Sons
Murphy Tractor & Equipment

Ready, Aim, Fire!

2009-06-16T15:54:00.011-05:00

This is it! The event you've been waiting for -- the Sporting Clays Tournament is scheduled for Friday, October 9 at Ozark Shooters. Don't have a team? Join us on an HBA team. Individual shooters are welcome - just $75 for hot BBQ lunch and to shoot 100 clays. Morning flight starts at 9:30 a.m., lunch at noon and afternoon shooters start at approx. 1 p.m. Awards given for both morning and afternoon groups for three flights, plus top shooters and top teams. Download the registration & sponsorship form by clicking here.

Thank you to luncheon sponsor:
Meek's - The Builder's Choice

Thank you to our Stand Sponsors (to date):

Arrowhead Building Supply

Sam Bradley Homes

Howard Bailey Company

Beaman Electric

Kevin Clingan Home Design & Construction

Fiberlite Technologies

Naught-Naught Agency

CBBT-Supported Candidates on the Ballot Tues., April 7 in the City of Springfield

2009-04-06T09:28:00.004-05:00

There are four candidates on the ballot April 7, running for City Council, that are supported by the Coalition for Building a Better Tomorrow (the HBA's political action committee) and the Springfield Good Government Committee (a coalition of business and community leaders concerned about the direction of the city). They are:

Jim O'Neal, Mayor
http://www.onealformayor.com/

Robert "Bob" Stephens, General Seat A
http://www.stephensforcouncil.com/

John Rush, General Seat B
More than 20 years of professional and community service in Springfield
Retired former CEO of the highly successful United Way of the Ozarks

Denny Whayne, Zone 1
Incumbent

Make sure the voice of the housing industry is heard. Please remember to vote on Tuesday, April 7!

All Four CBBT-Supported Candidates Advance to General Election

2009-02-03T21:24:00.005-06:00

The HBA of Greater Springfield's political action committee (The Coalition for Building a Better Tomorrow) supported four candidates in Tuesday's primary election for Springfield City Council. All four candidates advance from the primary to the April general election. Following are the February 3 election results in the four city council races. CBBT-supported candidates are noted in bold italics.

VOTES PERCENT

PRECINCTS COUNTED (OF 48) . . . 48 100.00

REGISTERED VOTERS - TOTAL . . . 112,484

BALLOTS CAST - TOTAL. . . . . 19,293

VOTER TURNOUT - TOTAL . . . . 17.15

CITY OF SPRINGFIELD For Mayor

JIM O'NEAL . . . . . . . . 10,967 61.31

SANDRA QUEEN NOBLE . . . . . 1,507 8.42

CHRISTOPHER M. DONEGAN . . . . 3,689 20.62

TAMARA FINOCCHIARO . . . . . 1,725 9.64

General Council Seat A

ROBERT L. "BOB" STEPHENS . . . 7,814 49.46

LYLE Q. FOSTER. . . . . . . 3,819 24.17

TOM MARTZ . . . . . . . . 4,165 26.36

General Council Seat B

JOHN RUSH . . . . . . . . 8,178 52.03

JASON P. LILLARD . . . . . . 2,730 17.37

FRED B. ELLISON . . . . . . 4,811 30.61

For Council Member Zone 1

NICHOLAS IBARRA . . . . . . 1,413 44.07

DENNY WHAYNE . . . . . . . 1,191 37.15

CAMERON EATON . . . . . . . 602 18.78

CBBT Makes Contributions to Four Springfield City Council Candidates

2009-01-29T16:59:00.005-06:00

Your political action committee, the Coalition for Building a Better Tomorrow, made contributions to four candidates for Springfield City Council. These are also the candidates recommended by the Springfield Good Government Committee in which the HBA is a partner. The Springfield Good Government Committee was formed by a coalition of business and community leaders concerned about the leadership and direction of our city. It organized to recruit qualified candidates, interested in job creation and economic development, to run for Springfield City Council.

The candidates are:

-Jim O'Neal for Mayor

-Robert "Bob" Stephens for City Council General Seat A

-John Rush for City Council General Seat B

-Denny Whayne, incumbent city councilman, Zone 1

If you live in the City of Springfield, the Primary election will be held this Tuesday, February 3. Please remember to cast your vote.

Make Your Election Day Problem Free!

2008-10-30T00:10:00.004-05:00

Area elections officials are suggesting that registered voters study their sample ballot prior to going to the polls so you are prepared to vote quickly. To read the 2008 ballot measures you can visit the Missouri Secretary of State's website at www.sos.mo.gov/elections/2008ballot/.

Some counties also have your local ballot version online. For example, Greene County's clerk has posted its local version of the ballot online at www.greenecountymo.org/election/.

You can also visit the Vote Missouri website at www.sos.mo.gov/elections/govotemissouri/localelectionauthority.aspx
to find out more about your local elections official including phone number, address and website, (if they have one.)

CBBT Contributes to Area General Election Candidates

2008-10-27T00:05:00.002-05:00

The HBA's Political Action Committee, the Coalition for Building a Better Tomorrow, recently made contributions to several area general election candidates for office. The following candidates received contributions from the CBBT:

1. Representative Shane Schoeller, House District 139
http://www.electschoeller.com/
http://www.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills081/member/mem139.htm

2. Representative Jay Wasson, House District 141
http://www.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills081/member/mem141.htm

3. Representative Don Ruzicka, House District 132
http://www.donruzicka.com/
http://www.house.mo.gov/billtracking/bills081/member/mem132.htm

4. Candidate for House District 136, Eric Burlison (vacant seat)
http://www.ericburlison.com/content/Home/tabid/37/Default.aspx

5. Greene County Commissioner Harold Bengsch

6. Christian County Western District Commissioner Bill Barnett

The CBBT also made a contribution to the HBA of Missouri PAC. If you have questions regarding the process for CBBT contributions, please contact Jennifer McClure at jennifer@springfieldhba.com

Meet Officeholders and Candidates at Mixer on Tuesday, Oct. 21

2008-10-16T16:44:00.003-05:00

Meet area candidates and officeholders at the after-hours HBA Member reception on Oct. 21 at Southern Materials Company. This is your opportunity to make sure those in government, who make decisions which affect your business, actually hear the voice of residential construction. Enjoy hot hors d'oeurves and a cash bar in this beautiful showroom -- and you'll have a chance to vote on your favorite featured product! You can pick up your 2008 HBA Membership Directory if you haven't had a chance to do so already. This will be a political "party" that's actually fun!

When: Tuesday, October 21
When: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Where: Southern Materials Company Showroom, Highway 65 & Division
Cost: $15 per person

RSVP by clicking here

For more information about Southern Materials Company, visit the company's website by clicking here.

Amendment 4 Deals With Financing of Stormwater Control Projects

2008-10-08T13:00:00.003-05:00

The Missouri Storm Water Control Amendment is a legislatively-referred constitutional amendment that, if passed, will amend the Missouri Constitution to change the provisions relating to the financing of stormwater control projects. It will appear on the general election ballot November 4, 2008.

Official Ballot Title:
Shall the Missouri Constitution be amended to change provisions relating to the financing of stormwater control projects by:

-limiting availability of grants and loans to public water and sewer districts only;
-removing the cap on available funding and existing restrictions on disbursements;
-requiring loan repayments to be used only for stormwater control projects?

It is estimated the cost to state governmental entities is $0 to $236,000 annually. It is estimated state governmental entities will save approximately $7,500 for each bond issuance. It is estimated local governmental entities participating in this program may experience savings, however the amount is unknown.

Fair ballot language excerpt:
A “yes” vote will amend the Missouri Constitution to change the provisions relating to the financing of stormwater control projects. Currently, the Missouri Constitution allows the legislature to issue bonds or other types of debt so that grants and loans may be provided to municipalities and water and sewer districts in certain counties and cities for stormwater control.

This amendment will limit funding to only public water and sewer districts. It removes the current limitation on the amount of funds that can be made available for these projects and removes the restrictions on the method of disbursing these funds. It further provides that loan repayment funds shall be deposited into a specific fund to be used for stormwater control projects.

A “no” vote will not change the provisions relating to the financing of stormwater control projects.

If passed, this measure will not have an impact on taxes.

To view the full text of the amendment, visit the Missouri Secretary of State's ballot measures explanation page by clicking here.

In addition to changes to the constitutional language, parallel changes to the state statutes governing the storm water grant and loan program at 644.570 RSMo will be put into effect if the constitutional language is changed in November 2008. Also, the sale of storm water control bonds to fund storm water projects in first class counties could resume.

Background: Missouri voters approved $200 million in state storm water bonds in November 1998. The bonds are administered by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and are used for storm water planning and/or construction projects in first class counties and the city of St. Louis (MSD). The bond funds are used by participants for loans that cover up to 100% of the project cost or as a 50% match grant.

To date, $45 million of the $200 million in authorized bonds have been sold. The last bond sale was in 2002. DNR has awarded all the bond proceeds sold thus far.

The storm water funds are allocated through a formula in the state constitution. The formula allocates the available funds based on the applicant’s population. There are currently seventeen first class counties: Boone, Buchanan, Callaway, Camden, Cape Girardeau, Cass, Clay, Cole, Franklin, Greene, Jackson, Jasper, Jefferson, Platte, St. Louis, St. Charles, and Taney.

Since the last bond sale in 2002, the Internal Revenue Service has enacted certain restrictions on tax exempt bond sales. The IRS requires that the tax exempt bonds be spent fully within three years of a sale. Because the existing storm water program cannot meet the IRS requirements, it is necessary to change the constitutional authorization language.

CBBT Sporting Clay Slide Show

2008-09-15T11:21:00.001-05:00

Results of the 2008 CBBT Sporting Clays Tournament!

2008-09-15T10:12:00.009-05:00

It was a great tournament! Thanks to our presenting sponsors: Conco Companies and Meek's - The Builder's Choice. This was our first year with both a morning and afternoon flight and we had a great turnout of more than 100 shooters. Top shooter in the afternoon was George Postma with an 84 out of 100. In the morning, Jeff Hansen was the #1 shooter with an 87 out 100. Best overall team of the morning group was the Citizens National Bank/OakStar Bank Team: Stu Wetzel, Jeremy Ray, David Beebe, Lor Randant and Steve Faseler with a combined score of 370. Rusty MacLachlan's team took the honors in the afternoon with a score of 390: Rusty MacLachlan, R.L. Bennett, George Postma, Scott Bracy and Ryan Groatake.

Many thanks to our Award Sponsors: Bailey Company, Sam Bradley Homes, Homes By Sam Watts and National Home Products

Morning Awards: (Ties were broken based on comparison of scores at a pre-determined stand)

A 1st - Jeff Hansen, 87

A 2nd - Bryce Scothorn, 85

A 3rd - Eric Shryer, 82

B 1st - Adam McHaffie, 70

B 2nd - Greg Lynn, 69

B 3rd - Bob Manton, 69

C 1st - Matt Morrow, 56

C 2nd - Scott Evans, 56

C 3rd - Larry Saxe, 55

Afternoon Group:

A 1st - George Postma, 84

A 2nd - Steve Butler, 84

A 3rd - R.L. Bennett, 83

B 1st - Kevin Clingan, 67

B 2nd - Dan Fugate, 67

B 3rd - Ryan Goatake, 66

C 1st - Buck Doty, 55

C 2nd - Bill Tigmeyer, 55

C 3rd - Rod Widger, 55

Support CBBT By Participating in Clay Shoot on Thursday, Sept. 11

2008-09-03T17:11:00.006-05:00

The CBBT Sporting Clay Shoot at Ozark Shooters is almost here! It is going to be a great tournament! Remember, there are two flights to choose from: 9:30 a.m. or 1 p.m. Lunch is served at noon for both flights. The cost is $75 per person or $375 per 5 person team. Download the entry form by clicking here. You don't have to be an expert marksman to enjoy this tournament. It is fun for everyone. Not interested in shooting? There are sponsorship opportunities for a $100 investment. The best part is that by participating and sponsoring you can earn even more Home Show points! There are three ways for members to gain points for CBBT support/participation:

1. Entry level Coalition for Building a Better Tomorrow (CBBT) donation of $100 or more.
2. Participating in the CBBT Sporting Clays Tournament (if entry level donation has previously been made).
3. Sponsoring the CBBT Sporting Clays Tournament (if entry level donation has previously been made.

Legislation removes contribution limits

2008-08-29T07:58:00.004-05:00

On August 28th, 2008, Senate Bill 1038 became law in Missouri. This act repeals the campaign contribution limits for certain candidates running for office in Missouri as well as making a number of other changes with respect to candidate and continuing committee campaign finance reporting. To download a more specific summary of the changes and their impact on reporting, visit the Missouri Ethics Commission website by clicking here.

Individuals and committees required to file campaign disclosure reports shall electronically file contributions exceeding $5,000 within 48 hours of receiving the contribution.

The treasurer and deputy treasurer of all committees shall reside in the district or county in which the committee sits.

Legislative and senatorial district committees shall retain only one address in the district in which it sits for the purpose of receiving contributions.

Out-of-state committees that make contributions in support of or against candidates or issues in elections shall report the names of its contributors even when the contributions originally made to the out-of-state committee were not made specifically to influence any particular election.

Current law imposes a penalty of twice the amount of the contribution or expenditure that is incorrectly reported up to $5,000. This amendment removes the $5,000 cap and imposes a penalty equal to the amount of the contribution for failing to file or filing incomplete reports.

Post Election Update - Looking Ahead to November

2008-08-07T16:35:00.006-05:00

Update on CBBT Supported Candidates

Congratulations to Roseann Bentley (Greene Co. Associate Commissioner race) and Lyndall Fraker (Webster Co. Northern Commissioner race) who won their primaries. Fraker has a general election opponent and Bentley does not. The City of Springfield's 1/8th cent transportation tax renewal also passed by a wide margin of more than 80%. Although candidates Terry Ozborn and Jeff Justus were not successful in their primary races, they ran outstanding, positive races of which they can be extremely proud.

The Missouri Governor's contest has been decided - Republican Kenny Hulshof will face Democrat Jay Nixon in the general election to be decided on November 4th. For more information about Hulshof's positions on small business and the economy click here. Jay Nixon's website can be reached by clicking here.

Remember to Vote on Tuesday, Aug. 5th!

2008-07-31T10:28:00.010-05:00

Tuesday August 5th is voting day! Remember these candidates the CBBT has supported:

Terry Ozborn, Republican candidate for Greene County Public Administrator (HBA member)

Jeff Justus, Republican candidate for state representative, 62nd district (Taney and Stone Counties)

Roseann Bentley, Greene County Commissioner up for re-election

Lyndall Fraker, republican candidate for Webster County Northern Commissioner.

Also, the HBA board of directors endorsed the City of Springfield's 1/8 cent transportation sales tax renewal. For more information go to www.cityofspringfield.org/egov/eighthcent.html

Two HBA Members Run for Office

2008-07-23T14:09:00.000-05:00

HBA Member Terry Ozborn

Two HBA of Greater Springfield members are currently running for office in primary elections to be determined August 5th. Both of these members have received contributions from your political action committee, the Coalition for Building a Better Tomorrow.

Builder Terry Ozborn is running for Greene County Public Administrator. "The Greene County Public Administrator is the public official that we trust to protect the financial interests of the county's most vulnerable citizens," said Ozborn. People have trusted Terry for years with their family’s largest financial investments. As a builder and small business person, his financial management skills are well-established. His knowledge of real estate, investments and related legal requirements will enable him to make the best possible professional decisions relative to each individual’s needs and circumstances. Ozborn currently serves on the board of the HBA of Greater Springfield and has chaired a number of committees for the organization including the health insurance task force. He was voted Springfield’s best builder in 2000 by readers of the Springfield News-Leader. You can email Terry by clicking here.

Member Jeff Justus, president of L&J Plumbing, is running for state representative in the 62nd district which encompasses Stone and Taney counties. A life-long resident of the area, Jeff has served the community in many ways: Table Rock Chamber of Commerce board of directors chairman, a long time member of the Branson Advisory Park Board, a trustee on the Skaggs Hospital Board, and an honorary coach of the College of the Ozarks NAIA Division II Men’s National Championship Tournament. For more information about Jeff's positions on the issues and experience, you can visit his campaign website by clicking here. highlight this and paste remainder of article here

HBA Board Endorses 1/8-cent Transportation Sales Tax Renewal

2008-07-14T00:15:00.000-05:00

On August 5, Springfield voters will consider extending the City’s 1/8-cent transportation sales tax for another four years to continue making much-needed local road improvements. The HBA's Board of Directors voted to endorse the issue. Strong transportation infrastructure is critical for the continued growth and development of our region. Passage of this ballot measure would result in numerous benefits including:

Improved Traffic Flow and Time Savings
Projects such as the widening of US 65 to six lanes from Chestnut Expressway to Battlefield Road and interchange improvements at I-44 and Kansas Expressway will reduce congestion, save time, and significantly improve traffic flow.

Increased Safety
Revenue from this tax would allow for design and construction of critical intersection improvements that would enhance safety at some of the city’s most dangerous intersections. Two such examples are the proposed addition of north-south lanes on Campbell Avenue under the James River Freeway, and off-ramp intersection improvements to the National Avenue corridor near CoxHealth.

Environmental Stewardship
Enhanced bicycle, pedestrian, and transit lanes will further address the need for alternative transportation modes. Specifically, the proposal includes new overpasses and sidewalks that will connect pedestrians and cyclists to various transit stops. Additionally, longer turn lanes, such as those planned for the intersection of Battlefield and Glenstone, will result in reduced idle time, reduced fuel consumption, and reduced emissions.

Cost Savings
Once completed, the proposed projects would improve the overall traffic flow and would ultimately mean passengers are able to travel more efficiently, saving both time and money with reduced fuel consumption.

Together, these benefits work to improve economic development in the region, and ensure the Springfield metro area has a strong transportation infrastructure that keeps up with the region’s continued growth.

As in the past, this renewal of the City’s transportation sales tax was crafted in partnership with the Missouri Department of Transportation and Greene County so the combination of City, County and State funds will accelerate construction on these high-priority projects.

This sales tax was first approved by voters in 1996, and has repeatedly received strong support. Funds from the tax have totaled $50 million in local funding, and have leveraged transportation investments of more than $100 million. The program has resulted in improvements to dozens of roads and intersections in Springfield. This ballot proposal will allow those improvements to continue, without a tax increase. For a complete list of past projects funded by this tax, visit springfieldmo.gov/egov/eighthcent