FALL 2018 - Michigan Infrastructure & Transportation Association
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MITA, Michigan Infrastructure & Transportation Association
P. O. Box 1640, Okemos, MI 48805-1640 PRST MKTG
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
LANSING, MI
PERMIT NO. 370
PAGE 30: MITA MEMBER MILESTONES
PAGE 10: ASSOCIATE MEMBER PROFILE: REHMANN
PAGE 8: MEMBER PROFILE: PETE’S CONTRACTING, INC.
FALL 2018
2 MITA CROSSSECTION FALL 2018
Pollution Insurance Program for Michigan Infrastructure and Transportation Association Members (MITA)
FALL 2018
COVER PHOTO:
Photo courtesy of Mersino
CONTENTS
5 Executive Comment 26 Outreach Spotlight
8 Member Profile 28 Did You Know?
10 Associate Member Profile 30 MITA Member Milestones
16 Vice President of Membership 36 2018 MITA Summer Conference
Services Comment 38 2018 MITA Golf Outings
18 Vice President of Industry 41 MITA Members Giving Back
Relations Comment 47 MITA PAC Update
20 Letters to MITA 56 ARTBA News
21 New MITA Members 60 MITA Scholarship Fund
24 Vice President of Engineering
Services Comment
Contractors Insurance Bonds Pension Plans For Cross-Section Magazine
Group Health & Life advertising or editorial inquiries,
contact Nancy Brown at
517-347-8336 or email her at
nancybrown@thinkmita.org.
©2018 Cross-Section
Magazine. All rights reserved.
Reprints or reproductions only
with written consent of MITA.
MITA
P.O. Box 1640
24724 Farmbrook Rd. P.O. Box 2067 Southfield, Michigan 48037-2067 Okemos, Mich. 48805-1640
(248) 355-4411 www.zervosgroup.com Phone: 517-347-8336
Fax: 517-347-8344
Staff of 40 to provide “Service with Zervos”
Gus E. Zervos, CEO Steve M. Zervos, President Angelo G. Zervos, VP Michael G. Zervos, VP
Don Burden Dave Lange Dominic Nicita
4 MITA CROSSSECTION FALL 2018
COMMENT
Executive Vice President
Y
our association continues by Mariam Robinson, director of
to work daily on your behalf strategic affairs, covers this topic on
to address many important page 26.
issues that face the entire heavy In the area of labor, the state
construction industry. Safety is prevailing wage is still confusing for
number one, and our vice president many MITA members. You may ask:
of membership services and director Didn’t the state prevailing wage get
of safety and compliance review the repealed? Glenn Bukoski, P.E., vice
Mike Nystrom importance of having a company president of engineering services,
safety policy in an article on page 16. answers this seemingly simple
Legislative issues, namely the question in an article on page 24.
upcoming November elections, are And on a lighter note, many of
discussed by Lance Binoniemi, vice our members are celebrating key
president of government affairs, anniversaries this year. Check out
on page 18. Please take time to stories and ads recognizing their
get to know the candidates. Many history and achievements starting on
candidates running for office are page 30. Also, please support those
saying that they will make fixing our who support MITA by looking over the
roads and other infrastructure in the photos and sponsor logos from this
state their number one priority. But it year’s summer conference (page 36)
is important to ask them, how? and golf outings (page 38).
It is also important when voting Details on other upcoming
this fall to consider the dilemma events, including MITA’s popular
when your personal beliefs conflict holiday parties, can be found on page
with your business goals. An article 28. We hope to see you soon!
Recycled Concrete & Asphalt Products Natural Aggregate Products
• Chilson Road, Howell • Hogan Road, Fenton
• Kensington Road, Brighton Operated by: DCF Recycling, Inc.
PO Box 1357 • Brighton MI 48116 • Phone 810-522-6474 • Fax 810-522-6499
WWW.THINKMITA.ORG 5
MITA BOARD OF DIRECTORS
OFFICERS Director at Large Director – Specialties Lance Binoniemi
Rod Mersino Pete Scodeller Vice President of
President Mersino Dewatering, Inc. Scodeller Construction, Inc. Government Affairs
Mike Malloure lancebinoniemi@thinkmita.org
C.A. Hull Co., Inc. Director at Large Director – Utilities
Rachelle VanDeventer, P.E.
Jack Dykstra Remi Coolsaet
President-Elect R.L. Coolsaet Construction Co. Vice President of Industry
Jack Dykstra Excavating, Inc.
Brandie Meisner Relations
M & M Excavating Company rachellevandeventer@
Director at Large Director – Excavating
thinkmita.org
John Zito Troy Broad
Vice-President Zito Construction Co. Team Elmer’s
Nancy Brown
Brian Hoffman
MITA Cross-Section
Hoffman Bros., Inc. Director at Large Director – Underground Magazine Editor
Karl Schweitzer J.W. Kalin Director of Communications
Treasurer GM & Sons, Inc. Kalin Construction Co., Inc. nancybrown@thinkmita.org
Pat Dunigan
Dunigan Bros., Inc. Director at Large ASSOCIATE Matt McClintick
Chad Listerman
Executive Vice President/
MEMBER COUNCIL Director of Safety and
CL Trucking & Excavating, LLC Compliance
Secretary
Mike Buck mattmcclintick@thinkmita.org
Mike Nystrom
Director at Large Association Benefits/
Scott Velting Salus Group Mariam Robinson
DIRECTORS
Velting Contractors, Inc. Director of Strategic Affairs
Dale Chambers mariamrobinson@thinkmita.org
Past President
Director at Large Jensen Bridge & Supply
Jim Doescher
Dan’s Excavating, Inc. Deb Edgecomb Ken Bertolini
Sanches Construction Amy Trahey Director of Workforce
Great Lakes Engineering Development
Past President
Group kenbertolini@thinkmita.org
Scott Bazinet Director at Large
Lowe Construction Co. Lincoln Noel
Payne & Dolan, Inc.
STAFF Mary Moody
Director at Large Mike Nystrom Accounting Coordinator
Rinaldo Acciavatti Director at Large Executive Vice President marymoody@thinkmita.org
Pamar Enterprises, Inc. Mike DeFinis mikenystrom@thinkmita.org
Angelo Iafrate Construction Co. Danielle Coppersmith
Director at Large Rob Coppermsith Events Coordinator
Steve Maranowski Director – Concrete Vice President of Membership daniellecoppersmith@
Angelo Lanni Services thinkmita.org
Spartan Specialties, LTD
Florence Cement Company, Inc. robcoppersmith@thinkmita.org
Sara Schaibly
Director at Large
Director – Bituminous Glenn Bukoski, P.E. Membership Services
Mike Peake
Coordinator
Action Traffic Maintenance Alan Sandell Vice President of
Engineering Services saraschaibly@thinkmita.org
Cadillac Asphalt, LLC
Director at Large glennbukoski@thinkmita.org
Ellen Nystrom
J.W. Fisher Director – Structures
Receptionist
Fisher Contracting Company Jeff Stover
ellennystrom@thinkmita.org
Toebe Construction LLC
6 MITA CROSSSECTION FALL 2018
WWW.THINKMITA.ORG 7
MEMBER PROFILE
Pete’s Contracting, Inc.
W
ith his own backhoe
and dump truck, Pete
VandenBos ventured out
one spring day 24 years ago and
decided to “see how it goes.”
He was still working for a
contractor in Traverse City while he
began doing small residential work
in the Falmouth area, near Cadillac.
His determination to make it on
his own paid off, and the first year
he added one employee and the
second year another.
“We just kept building and
building and today we have 28-
30 employees at the peak of the
season,” Pete said. The family
business includes his wife of 25
From left to right: Pete VandenBos and Brad Forbes of Pete’s Contracting, Inc.
years, Toni; brother, Willie, shop
foreman and mechanic; his cousin,
Brad, superintendent; his uncles:
Aaron, Charlie and his son, Joe
and nephew Chase, who works in
the field; and daughter, Kimberly,
who helps in the office along with
Heather.
"And all our employees feel like
extended family as a majority have
been with us over 10 years plus,"
Pete said. "They look out for us,
and we look out for them."
“We do residential work, plus
municipal work, water and sewer,
street repair, MDOT work, utility
work for gas and power companies,
and work for large dairy farms. We
are diversified and that has kept our
business going and helps us get
8 MITA CROSSSECTION FALL 2018
through the slow times because we are not dependent on a certain
type of work.”
Pete’s
In August, Pete’s Contracting, Inc., was busy doing site work for Contracting, Inc.
Lake City schools and an addition at the Kirtland Community College
in Grayling. 5791 South McVety Road
“My favorite project of all time that went well for us was a large dam Falmouth, Mich. 49632
removal project in Chesaning 10 years ago,” recalled Pete, who also Phone: 231-328-4701
finds time to run a small beef cattle farm in Merritt. “It was on the river Fax: 231-328-4774
with DEQ, the city, DNR, the feds and other agencies. In spite of all
those hands in the action, we had fun and the project was a success.” MAIN CONTACTS
What he likes the best about the business: “The stress,” he joked.
“Actually being my own boss is the best part of running this business. Pete VandenBos
Our philosophies…work hard, retain great skilled employees, maintain President
great business relationships with our suppliers and vendors and put
Toni VandenBos
money back in to the business to grow. This year purchases included
President
the GPS systems for our bigger dozers. We will commit to continually
petescr@centurytel.net
meeting our customers’ needs now and in the years to come."
Member of MITA since 2001
WWW.THINKMITA.ORG 9
ASSOCIATE MEMBER PROFILE
From left to right: Andy Rose, CPA, CGMA, CCIFP; and Bob Nagle, CPA, CGMA, of the Rehmann accounting and consulting firm. They
are proud members of MITA, and their diversified firm provides a wide variety of tax, accounting, consulting and business management
services to clients in Michigan, Ohio and Florida.
Rehmann
W
ith 11 offices in Michigan 50 years’ experience working in confidence. We offer our clients
alone, MITA members the accounting field and frequently access to associates from all
have many opportunities attend MITA’s networking functions service lines who are dedicated
to be exposed to the services that and support other MITA projects. to working collaboratively as an
Rehmann provides its clients. Most “We are proud to offer a cross- everyday business partner to
likely they will come in contact with functional team approach,” said cultivate more ideas, more service
two key assets within Rehmann’s Andy, who has been with Rehmann and more experience.”
dedicated construction practice: for his entire 22-year career. “Our Andy earned his Certified
Andy Rose, CPA, CGMA, CCIFP team uses a progressive service Construction Industry Financial
and Bob Nagle, CPA, CGMA. model that focuses on delivering Professional (CCIFP) certification
Combined they have more than our clients peace of mind and through the Construction Financial
10 MITA CROSSSECTION FALL 2018MAIN CONTACT INFORMATION OTHER REHMANN OFFICES
Robert G. Nagle, CPA, CGMA Rehmann | Traverse City
Rehmann | Ann Arbor
Principal 107 South Cass Street, Suite A
555 Briarwood Circle
bob.nagle@rehmann.com Traverse City, Mich. 49684
Suite 300
Phone: 989-946–3230
Ann Arbor, Mich. 48104
Rehmann | Farmington Hills Josh Sullivan, Senior Manager
Phone: 734-761-2005
39300 West Twelve Mile Road joshua.sullivan@rehmann.com
Chris Sing, Principal
Suite 100
chris.sing@rehmann.com
Farmington Hills, Mich. 48331 Rehmann | Troy
Phone: 248-579-1100 1500 West Big Beaver Road
Rehmann | Muskegon
Second Floor
570 Seminole Road, Suite 200
Andrew J. Rose, CPA, CGMA, CCIFP Troy, Mich. 48084
Muskegon, Mich. 49444
Principal Phone: 248-952-5000
Phone: 231-739-9441
andrew.rose@rehmann.com Chuck Miller, Principal
Ryan Bryker, Senior Manager
Rehmann | Lansing chuck.miller@rehmann.com
ryan.bryker@rehmann.com
4086 Legacy Parkway
Lansing, Mich. 48911 Rehmann | Midland
Rehmann | Jackson
Phone: 517-316-2400 224 East Larkin, Suite 100
675 Robinson
Midland, Mich. 48640
Rehmann | Saginaw Jackson, Mich. 49204
Phone: 989-631-3131
5800 Gratiot Road, Suite 201 Phone: 517-787-6503
Jeff Hert, Principal
Saginaw, Mich. 48638 Marc Allen, Senior Manager
jeff.hert@rehmann.com
Phone: 989-799-9580 marc.allen@rehmann.com
Rehmann | Grand Rapids
Rehmann | Cheboygan
2330 East Paris Avenue SE
www.rehmann.com/construction 902 South Huron, P.O. Box 250
Grand Rapids, Mich. 49516
Cheboygan, Mich. 49721
Phone: 616-975-4100
Phone: 231-672-3143
John Skukalek, Principal
Debra Kiteley, Principal
john.skukalek@rehmann.com
debra.kiteley@rehmann.com
Member of MITA since 2013
Continued on page 12
WWW.THINKMITA.ORG 11ASSOCIATE MEMBER PROFILE
Continued from page 11
Management Association (CFMA). full-service IT technology services the largest CPA, business
The certification is earned by with the addition of Trivalent Group consulting and financial services
individuals with construction in 2018. firms providing forward-thinking
industry finance expertise through With every service offered, solutions to clients. Additionally,
training and testing in the areas Rehmann adheres to the firm’s through a unique combination
of tax, law, accounting, human core values when assisting clients: with Trivalent Group®, a top 100
resources, contracts and more. • Put people first. managed IT service provider,
Many construction industry chief • Be obsessed with client the company expanded their
financial officers and controllers success. technology capabilities and
have earned the certification • Cultivate business wisdom. launched a managed IT solutions
themselves, Andy said, and expect • Embrace an entrepreneurial practice. Rehmann has nearly 900
it from accounting professionals spirit. associates in Michigan, Ohio and
who want to bid to provide • Exhibit unwavering integrity. Florida, and is a member of Nexia
accounting and other services. “We are results oriented, just International, a leading worldwide
Bob, with 33 years’ experience, like contractors” said Bob, the network of accounting firms, we
started with Rehmann in 2009 father of two daughters – one, age can help our clients do business
when his firm merged with 26, is a University of Michigan around the globe.
Rehmann. He explained further graduate. The youngest, age 23, Rehmann is a top 40 accounting
that the services Rehmann graduated from Michigan State and advisory firm nationally and
offers clients what they need University – making football the 4th largest in the Great Lakes
to succeed: tax and assurance season an interesting, but fun region according to Accounting
services, consulting (from cost challenge, he joked. Bob said he Today. The firm serves clients
estimation to procurement of and Andy are passionate about the all over the United States and
financing or bonding), mergers and construction industry – working internationally and has earned
acquisitions, retirement plans and hard and having fun. “If you can’t Inavero’s 2018 Best of Accounting
more. have some fun, something is award for client service excellence
“We always expect and are wrong!” for its third consecutive year.
aware that our competitors do an Andy quickly added to the
excellent job,” Bob said. “But we results-oriented conversation:
have a different approach than “We get ‘er done, just like the The History of
most firms. Our team approach entrepreneurial types of leaders
is unique in the industry, and we who own construction firms that are Rehmann
have strategies to provide CPA firm members of MITA.” Like Bob, and
The family business was in
offerings, integrated with personal like MITA members, Andy is a big
trouble.
and financial services, investigative family man, who enjoys spending
Technological advancements
security services, background time with his three boys, ages 20,
in dry cleaning introduced greater
checks for critical employees, 13, and 9.
competition into the market and
back office business management
threatened the Rehmann family’s
services and much more.”
Andy, who like Bob, has a great
A Quick Look at wholesale dry cleaning business.
Jack Rehmann, who joined the
sense of humor that can put new, Rehmann business full time following a two-
potential clients at ease, joked that
Initially founded in 1941 by year stint in the Navy after college,
they could take up the entire MITA
Jack Rehmann as a traditional had to consider a career change.
magazine talking about what their
accounting firm, the company Armed with an accounting
company does for its clients, and
has grown to become one of degree, Rehmann started hunting
he added that Rehmann now offers
for work. He landed a job with the
12 MITA CROSSSECTION FALL 2018firm Wagar, Lunt & Oehring, which and depreciation schedules were A new name, new challenges
started in Saginaw, Mich., in 1941 written by hand. and one big checklist
with only two people but had grown Though technology had
By the early 1960s, Rehmann
to two offices, 35 employees and presented challenges for his
became a partner and the firm
three partners. family’s business, Rehmann still
was rechristened Wagar, Lunt
appreciated the changes that rolled
& Rehmann. By the end of the
Sharing typewriters…and into the firm. At one point, a printing
decade, he was named managing
cigarette smoke company rented office space in
partner.
The staff room in which the same building and the firm’s
But times weren’t always
Rehmann would begin his career employees had access to a copy
prosperous. Federal Trade
was short on frills: It was a large machine for 25 cents per page,
Commission rules and more
space with desks lined up along the which is about $2 today.
competition brought challenges to
walls, where everyone shared two “We were very excited because
the firm, which at its most difficult
typewriters, one phone, one adding we could run upstairs and …
point employed just six people.
machine (which printed sums on bingo!” Rehmann recalled. Until the
However, soon enough, the firm
a roll of paper similar to today’s cost for all that miraculous copying
experienced growth that boosted its
markedly smaller desktop adding crossed the boss’ desk, anyway.
employee count up to 40.
machines) and one Marchant “When Wayne (firm founder
Two more business
calculator (picture a calculator the Wayne Wagar) got the first month’s
combinations in 1979 doubled the
size of some of today’s desktop bill, that ended that,” Rehmann
number of employees overnight …
computers). They also shared laughed.
and brought with it another name
cigarette smoke – this was back change, this time to Rehmann,
when ads for cigarettes featured Robson, Osburn & Co. Faced with
doctors extolling their virtues – such an enormous organizational
change, Rehmann signed up for
a course called “Management for
Results.”
Impressed with the course,
Rehmann invited the instructor
to evaluate the firm’s processes.
After the evaluation, the instructor
returned with 92 recommendations
and the firm adopted nearly all
of them. The effort paid off, with
improved manager and associate
Michigan’s Largest satisfaction that in turn boosted
Distributor of ADA Tiles business success. By the time
Rehmann retired in 1992, the firm
Compliant with MDOT & City of Detroit boasted 225 associates.
Cast in Place • Surface Mount • Replaceable
Available in Assorted Colors & Sizes Rapid growth and a
Visit us online at new “experience”
acecutting.com Steve Kelly was named CEO of
25806 Novi Rd., Novi, MI 48375
(248) 449-4944 Continued on page 14
WWW.THINKMITA.ORG 13ASSOCIATE MEMBER PROFILE
Continued from page 13
what was then called Rehmann, The result of their efforts: The “It wasn’t one good year, one
Robson & Co. in 1985. The firm Rehmann Experience. This forward- person we hired or one client we
experienced rapid growth after he thinking service model familiarizes served that brought Rehmann
assumed the helm. clients with associates from all success: It was a combination of
“Our development can be directly service lines who are committed to efforts from everyone involved,”
attributed to our consistent focus working collaboratively to provide Rupp reflected. “Our leadership
on our clients and helping our more ideas, service and experience. and associates have held true to
associates become as successful as It has served as the firm’s north our values and built an incredible
possible,” Kelly explained. star ever since and has indeed company culture. This is what makes
It was that focus that sparked bolstered client satisfaction results Rehmann the firm it is today.”
the company’s next period of to unprecedented heights.
momentum. Noticing that client In 2015, 33 years after joining This history of Rehmann was first
satisfaction results had leveled the firm as an intern, Randy Rupp published in the Spring/Summer
off and, despite their positive succeeded Kelly as CEO. 2016 edition of Rehmann’s “BWD
numbers, looking to raise them even To Rupp, developing The Magazine.” The magazine is available
higher, Kelly and some associates Rehmann Experience was a bold at www.rehmann.com/resources-
interviewed top clients to identify and important move, but there’s insights/bwd.
where the firm could improve its something else he feels also left an
service offerings. indelible mark on the firm’s growth.
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14 MITA CROSSSECTION FALL 2018Limestone Sand & Gravel Rail & Recycle
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WWW.THINKMITA.ORG 15Words or Action;
You Decide
By Rob Coppersmith and Matt McClintick
available to the employees? Do we MITA staff is currently working
as an organization live up to the spirit on a new version of our “build your
of the document or just maintain it in own safety program.” The goal is to
the event of a MIOSHA inspection? give members the necessary tools
Most will wait until the unfortunate to protect employees, plus maintain
happens and then get serious about production and compliance with
Rob Coppersmith safety. The “it will never happen regulations. The MITA “build your
to me mentality” is literally getting own program” gives a member the
To contact Rob Coppersmith, email him people killed. opportunity to expand and grow their
at robcoppersmith@thinkmita.org or call
Across the nation, there is safety program to better fit the needs
the MITA office at 517-347-8336.
a renewed push to improve and of their company. There are seven
establish robust safety and health core elements that are recommended
programs. This is deemed to be for a successful safety and health
one of the most effective ways at program. They are:
protecting your employees, because • Management leadership and
it is supposed to be their guidance involvement
document. If you use a proactive • Worker participation
approach with your employees
• Hazard identification and
to foster a culture of “finding and
assessment
fixing” workplace hazards before an
employee is exposed to a hazard • Hazard prevention and control
that leads to an injury or illness, • Education and continued training
your safety program will stop being • Program evaluation and
paper and start to become a culture. improvement
However, cultures are based on • Communication and coordination
traditions and that is where things to all employers and agencies
get tough, the sustainability aspect. on site
Matt McClintick, CHST Historically, the approach has been
Most of this might seem cliche
To contact Matt McClintick, email him at reactive to an employee’s injury or
or too cerebral; top down, worker
mattmcclintick@thinkmita.org or call the illness, finding the root cause and
involvement, continual education,
MITA office at 517-347-8336. then modifying policy or procedures
communication, yada, yada, yada.
to prevent that injury or illness from
Well, it’s nothing earth shaking or
A
happening again. In a “find and fix”
safety program means a lot terribly new. Just a commitment that
culture you take your organization
of different things to a lot of we all can do better and these are
out of the cycle and move forward
different people. To some the tried and true elements that make
toward an organization that if not free
it’s a document that collects dust a program work! Guess what? Most
from accidents is full of workers that
underneath a pick-up seat; to others of it revolves around human behavior
are correcting potential hazards and
it is the holy document that explains and a commitment to the process
looking for safer ways to perform
everything to the nth degree and by everyone in an organization,
work, rather than waiting for someone
should be followed without exception. especially at the top. This means you
to tell them a new way once an
The truth most likely lies somewhere can’t just say you have a program
accident has occurred. I suspect that
in between. However, every – you have to put it into practice. To
outcome of such an environment
contractor should ask themselves be honest, MITA is doing the easy
would create numerous positive
a few key questions regarding their part, and all the updates should be
results.
safety policy. Is it current? Is it available to members by the start of
16 MITA CROSSSECTION FALL 2018work next spring. The hard part has has to be removed from significant need to be tested, which is a good
been left up to the rest of you who lead exposure, and employees are thing. However, the dramatically
have to implement it together. I can permitted to return to work when reduced removal and return to work
see some of the faces already, but their BLL is 40 μg/dL or lower. The requirements could prove difficult
you must march on to be successful proposed new levels for Michigan to meet in our hard to control work
in this area. Do you really want to be will see a removal limit of 30 μg/dL environments.
the person staring at the ceiling the and the ability to return to work after If you have questions or
night after a terrible incident thinking two consecutive tests below 15 μg/ comments, please contact
we could have done more? dL. This may seem like a dramatic Rob Coppersmith, MITA’s vice
MIOSHA has adopted many shift but will mirror what the federal president of membership services
of the OSHA standards in the past standard is in the process of putting at robcoppersmith@thinkmita.
several years which prompted MITA in place. The Michigan version will org; or Matt McClintick, MITA’s
to do a complete overhaul of our be less dramatic than other states director of safety and compliance at
safety policies. It all started with the because it will not be expanding mattmcclintick@thinkmita.org.
new crane standard that MITA was the scope of workers who will
successful at getting the excavator
portion segmented out of the crane
standard in order to provide clarity to
what applied to excavators. A couple
more that you may be familiar with
are the confined space standard and
the new crystalline silica rules. MITA
does have updated company policy
available for members in confined
space and crystalline silica. As a
reminder, MITA developed Enter
Right (www.enterright.com) a website
to assist foremen in determining
confined spaces and allow for the
results to be stored and emailed to
whomever should be monitoring field
crews. MITA will continue to put tools
in the toolbox. It is important for you
to use them.
On a final note, Governor Snyder
has challenged all agencies in the
state of Michigan to review and
address all residents’ exposure
to lead, from the Flint Crisis to
protecting employees who may be
exposed to lead at work. MIOSHA
has addressed this by looking at the
lead standards that are on the books
for general industry (Part 310) and
construction (Part 603) by holding
a handful of meetings throughout
the state. As the rulemaking was
being developed, several parties
reflected on two other states
attempting to make changes to the
Blood Lead Levels (BLL’s). Currently,
the construction rule allows for
BLL’s up to 50 μg/dL (micrograms
per deciliter) before an employee
WWW.THINKMITA.ORG 17COMMENT—Vice President of Government Affairs
2018 Elections: Take
Some Time and Get to
Know the Candidates
the top of the ticket down to your from existing funds within our state
local races, our television sets will air government or from economic
non-stop political ads until election growth. We pay for roads, bridges,
day. And if we believe the news and water, sewers and other utilities
the political experts, there could be through user fees. By taking a stand
Lance Binoniemi a shift in the current political party against any increases to user fees,
dynamics that have reigned for the which many politicians do, they are
To contact Lance Binoniemi, email him past eight years under complete essentially telling the public and MITA
at lancebinoniemi@thinkmita.org or call
the MITA office at 517-347-8336. Republican control. The gubernatorial members that they are not willing
election, as well as many House to increase revenues going into our
N
and Senate races, will be extremely infrastructure systems. And if there
ow that the primary elections competitive, and it will be up to the is one thing that we can all agree on,
are behind us, and our TVs are individual candidates to get their it’s that we desperately need more
on overdrive with campaign supporters to the polls. money to fix infrastructure.
commercials, things are starting to
That means it is increasingly So become as educated as you
take shape a little for the November
important for voters to be as possibly can. And we don’t mean by
6th elections. Following this article,
educated as possible when picking reading the hundreds of fliers that
you will find a brief write-up on all the
candidates. If there is one thing that you’ll receive in the mail, listening
statewide ballot proposals. You will
is clear, it is that all politicians are to the countless TV and radio ads
likely see some local ballot initiatives,
very good at telling the public what or paying attention to the robo calls.
as well, including many road and
they want to hear. For example, Read all the information candidates
other infrastructure millages that we
every candidate running for office is put out on their websites. Attend a
strongly encourage you to support.
jumping up and yelling at the top of campaign event, or even better, a
If we learned anything from the their lungs that they will make fixing debate. Go to the local town halls and
primary elections, it’s that anything our roads and other infrastructure in coffee hours and while you’re there,
goes when it comes to the electorate. this state one of their top priorities ask a few questions. Get specific,
Some candidates that seemingly had if elected. But it is essential that because it is likely that you know
an easy road to victory either had we all ask the question, how? How more about infrastructure spending
to work harder than they thought or are we going to fix our deteriorating than they do. Educate them on your
ended up losing their seats altogether. infrastructure? How are we going to business and how various policies
On the flip side, some candidates raise enough investment to cover the affect you and your company, and
that didn’t seem to have a chance $3 to $4 million annual funding gap see how they respond. Outside of
of winning pulled off a few miracles that exists? How does this fit into their the 30-second commercials, you will
with hard work and determination. platform? These are the questions get a better sense on where all the
The era of term limits in Michigan that we at MITA ask candidates every candidates stand. We, as the MITA
certainly has made elections much single day, and we need the public to community, have an opportunity to
less predictable. ask, as well. affect change by putting this issue
The general election will be an Fixing our state’s deteriorating front and center in this election
exciting one on multiple fronts. From infrastructure isn’t going to come cycle.
18 MITA CROSSSECTION FALL 2018STATE OF MICHIGAN STATEWIDE
BALLOT PROPOSALS CAPITOL
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INC.
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CERTIFIED TO APPEAR ON • Complete Work Zone Protection
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MARIJUANA LIKE ALCOHOL: Proposed initiated law to • Traffic Regulator Services (Flaggers)
authorize the personal possession and use of marihuana • Full Sequence Set-up &
Operation or Personnel Only
by individuals aged 21 years and older and control the
commercial production and distribution of marihuana. Project Manager/Estimator: Ken Brandt
kbrandt@capitolbarricading.com
PROPOSAL 2—VOTERS NOT POLITICIANS: Proposed Superintendent: Ken Wolverton
constitutional amendment to create the Independent kwolverton@capitolbarricading.com
Citizens Redistricting Commission and authorize the
Commission to adopt reapportionment plans.
PROMOTE THE VOTE: Proposed constitutional
amendment to regulate the timing of issuing absentee
ballots, authorize no-reason absentee voting, require a
517-372-1291
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WWW.THINKMITA.ORG 19LETTERS TO MITA
Dear Mike: Dear Mike: economically, than other areas of the
country. The excavators only get about
Kudos on the passage of legislation Thanks for fighting this fight (prevailing
30–38 weeks a year to work. Those
creating the Michigan Infrastructure wage repeal)! I completely agree with
contractors and employees need to make
Council and Water Infrastructure Council. fighting this repeal. I own a bookkeeping
their 52 weeks of income in those short
See you hands all over it! Great job! agency, specializing in the construction
weeks. The employees need to earn the
industry. I know, weather dependent
William D. Toohey, Jr. higher wages. Keep up the fight!
jobs in the Midwest make life harder
ARTBA
on the contractors and the employees, Maureen Weick
Weick Accounting
Attention Contractors, Developers and Municipalities Dear Mariam:
Thank you for selecting me to be one of
the 2018 scholarship winners. As summer
Make MICHIGAN PIPE & VALVE your one-stop boils down to the last few weeks, I get
for all your water and sewer supplies. We specialize more and more excited about continuing
in the routine to the hard-to- find supplies. my education at Ferris this coming fall.
Because you awarded me with this gift,
college will be more affordable. It has
JACKSON been so motivating to know that people
Tom Ryan care about the younger generation and
Kyle Richmond that they offer opportunities like this
Jeremy Richmond
scholarship.
517-764-9151
jrichmond@mpvj.com During this summer, I have been part of
an AIS training program. I have gained
additional knowledge and skills that will
MT. PLEASANT
benefit me greatly in college from working
Bryan Reedy
full time in a shop with other technicians.
Tim Brugger
Justin Jaime I am truly excited for my future as a heavy
989-817-4331 equipment technician and thanks again
bryan.reedy@michiganpipe.com for investing in my future.
Nathaniel Pytlowany
SAGINAW
Justin Jaime Dear Ken:
Jon Jaime
Theresa Jaime Thank you so much for volunteering at
989-752-7911 the JA Reverse Job Shadow/Career Day
saginaw@michiganpipe.com
at Everett High School! This event would
not have been possible without your help.
TRAVERSE CITY We understand this is a very busy time of
year and appreciate you taking time out
Mike Crowley Jr.
Tim Brugger of your schedule to give these students
231-929-7473 career exposure and inspiration.
traversecity@michiganpipe.com
Jamie Sartor
Junior Achievement of Mid Michigan
www.MichiganPipe.com
20 MITA CROSSSECTION FALL 2018NEW MITA MEMBERS
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WWW.THINKMITA.ORG 23COMMENT—Vice President of Engineering Services
Didn’t State Prevailing
Wage Get Repealed?
It Did, But its Use
is Not Prohibited
Glenn Bukoski, P.E.
To contact Glenn Bukoski, email him
at glennbukoski@thinkmita.org or call Licensing and Regulatory Affairs supported the implementation of a
the MITA office at 517-347-8336. (LARA), Wage & Hour Division prevailing wage at both the state
leadership, they concurred with and federal level, we continue today
MITA’s understanding that the to encourage Michigan’s public and
O
n June 6, 2018, the repeal of PA 166 of 1965 does not private owners to include prevailing
Michigan legislature passed prohibit any public agency or private wage requirements in their project
legislation that repealed owner from including a “prevailing bid documents going forward. Since
Michigan’s long-standing prevailing wage” requirement on projects they LARA’s Wage & Hour Division is
wage law, PA 166 of 1965. may be contracting for that may or no longer updating, maintaining
That 53-year-old law required may not involve some state funding. and publishing state prevailing
that prevailing wages and fringe Since the June 6 repeal of wage schedules, we suggest that
benefits (i.e. union-scale) be paid state prevailing wage, many MITA project owners use and incorporate
to workers on “state” projects for members have informed staff that the federal Davis-Bacon prevailing
public buildings, schools, bridges, several public works and private wage requirements, as those wage
highways and roads that were projects have been advertised determinations are updated and
authorized by a contracting agent. and bid with bid documents that maintained by the US Department
The law defined “contracting agent” included a State of Michigan of Labor.
as “… any officer, school board, Prevailing Wage Schedule and the Everyone should understand
board of commission of the state, or typical certified payroll reporting that the repeal of Michigan’s state
any state institution … authorized protocol requirements. For those prevailing wage has no impact
to enter into a contract for a state and similar future projects, we on federally funded projects. For
project.” recommend that bidders contact federally funded projects the
In lay terms, the repeal of PA those project owners pre-bid to Davis-Bacon prevailing wage
166 of 1965 simply eliminated the verify the inclusion of a prevailing requirements and compliance
requirement for state prevailing wage requirement. If the project protocols remain unchanged.
wages on school and public owner verifies it is their intent to If you have any questions about
works projects contracted by state bid and award the project with a prevailing wage, please don’t
supported institutions, agencies prevailing wage requirement, then it hesitate to give staff a call at the
and departments. is a contractual requirement that all MITA office.
In conversations MITA has had bidders should conform to.
with the Michigan Department of As MITA has historically
24 MITA CROSSSECTION FALL 2018WWW.THINKMITA.ORG 25
OUTREACH SPOTLIGHT
The Big Voting Dilemma:
When Your Personal Beliefs
Clash With Your Business Goals
By Mariam Robinson, Director of Strategic Affairs
your bottom line? Do you vote funding gets the attention and
on behalf of your company or forward momentum it deserves.
Mariam Robinson your family values? These can When you enter the voting
Director of Strategic Affairs be difficult choices, because in booth in November, please keep
many instances like this, you can’t in mind that when MITA supports
have your cake and eat it, too. one candidate over another, they
V
oting in an election is one At MITA, while we cannot and are doing so with the industry in
of our greatest privileges as will not tell you who to vote for, we mind, and staff personal beliefs
citizens, and it is also one of would strongly encourage you to play no role in the choice. We have
our most important responsibilities consider both candidates, now that a variety of beliefs in the office, but
as active members of society. the primaries are over, and what the number one priority is always
Every once in awhile, a big election they have or have not pledged what is best for the membership
rolls around, and some people find to do on behalf of your industry and the industry, so the
themselves in a quandary as they and the investment that is sorely association’s choice of candidate
contemplate a big vote, like the needed for infrastructure on a is a direct reflection of that.
one for the state’s next governor. long-term basis in our great state. We hope you exercise your
We all have strong personal As someone who works very right to vote, and we hope that
beliefs, and we are all passionate hard in this industry day in and day you will consider choosing a
about the work we do on a daily out to keep your company solvent candidate who will sincerely look
basis to move Michigan forward. and growing strong, you know to move the industry and the
It’s what makes us all individuals, better than any other citizen just needs of the state forward if they
but it’s also what makes us how important your contributions win the governor’s office.
American. We have the right are to Michigan and to the people
to our opinions and the right to who rely on your
express ourselves, as well as leadership and
that wonderful right to vote for expertise to get
whomever we choose, regardless big jobs done.
of what anyone else may think. You also know
The trouble is, sometimes how reliant the
the choice that may be the best industry is on
for your industry might also be funding from the
the opposite of what you would state, and how
automatically vote for on a personal the governor’s
level, and vice versa. In this regard, office plays
elections can be quite tough. a key role in
Do you vote your conscience or ensuring that
26 MITA CROSSSECTION FALL 2018DID YOU KNOW?
DID YOU KNOW?
I
n an effort to help you plan your future, here’s a list of upcoming events, which includes the
mother of all training and networking events–the MITA Annual Conference. For more details,
visit www.thinkmita.org or call the MITA office at 517-347-8336.
MITA WESTERN HOLIDAY PARTY METRO HOLIDAY PARTY MITA ANNUAL CONFERENCE
December 11, 2018 December 20, 2018 January 23–24, 2019
11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort
TBD Somerset Inn Mt. Pleasant, Mich.
Grand Rapids Troy
MITA MANAGEMENT
MITA CENTRAL HOLIDAY PARTY MITA SKI WEEKEND CONFERENCE
December 14, 2018 January 10–13, 2019 March 2-9, 2019
11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Boyne Highlands Sandals Grande St. Lucian
Country Club of Lansing Harbor Springs, Mich. St. Lucia
Lansing Michigan Utility Coordination
28 MITA CROSSSECTION FALL 201830 th
EST. 1988
Celebrating
30 years in business
and
DEWATERING BYPASS PUMPING ONE-PASS TRENCHING POWER GENERATION
8 6 6 . M E R S I N O
www. mer si n o.co m 1016 2 E Co ldwate r Rd. Davis o n , MI 48423
Affiliated Local Unions of the
MICHIGAN STATE CONFERENCE of
PLASTERERS AND CEMENT MASONS
OPERATIVE PLASTERERS & PLASTERERS & CEMENT
CEMENT MASONS LOCAL 514 MASONS LOCAL 886
Henry Williams, Financial Secretary Kenneth M. Vierling, Sr., Business Manager
1154 E. Lincoln Avenue 4652 Lewis Ave.
Madison Heights, MI 48071 Toledo, OH 46312
Phone: 248-548-0800 Phone: 419-478-2652
Fax: 248-548-0700 Fax: 419-478-0208
Joseph Ciacchi, Vice President
Phone: 740-590-9827
WWW.THINKMITA.ORG 29MITA MEMBER MILESTONES
Congratulations to Milbocker & Sons, Inc., M & M Excavating Company,
Kotz Sangster Wysocki P.C., Site Development Inc., and Mersino for the
anniversaries they are celebrating this year.
If your company is interested in being recognized for your anniversary in the
future, please contact MITA’s Director of Communications and Cross-Section
Magazine Editor Nancy Brown at nancybrown@thinkmita.org.
Milbocker & Sons, Inc.
Celebrating 50 Years
T
hose who are familiar with in 1968
Milbocker & Sons, Inc., are and then
well aware that it is a serious became
oddity in this industry. Part of the Milbocker
company believes that it is a bridge & Sons,
builder and the other part believes Inc. Buster
that it is an excavating/road said it was
building company. tough as young men in their 30’s to next few years the company
In 1955, Milbocker & Harris ask the local banker to loan them bucked the trend of just doing road
was founded by Sylvester (Sy) some money so they could buy construction and site excavation.
Milbocker and James Harris. more equipment. The banker took In 1976 Milbocker took on its
The company performed light a chance on what he called some first bridge job, Butters Avenue
underground work and county road “snot nosed kids” and with a hand in Coldwater, Mich. Currently
projects. Its equipment consisted of shake and a couple of dollars in they employ up to or above 100
one grader, one crane, one dozer their pockets, they forged their way seasonally with current average
and four scrapers. into the industry. Around then, their annual sales of $30 million.
When Milbocker/Harris split typical annual sales volume might Three generations later, Scott
in 1960, the family business, average $500,000. Today, the cost Milbocker is now president of
Milbocker & Sons, was formed. of one piece of equipment can be Milbocker & Sons, Inc. A list of key
The company ran out of a Quonset at or above that. personnel can be found at www.
hut on the family farm. It was The steady growth of the milbocker.com. Many individuals,
said by Moe “back then, if it was company and its solid reputation past and present, have worked
zero degrees outside, it was zero for producing quality work allowed together to create the foundation
degrees inside.” Sy and his sons, the brothers to enter other aspects of Milbocker & Sons, Inc. The men
Buster, Moe, Jim, Gene and the of the heavy construction industry. and women, in the office and in the
younger brothers, David and Mike, Gale Rewa joined the company field, are the infrastructure of this
along with 12 to 15 employees in 1972 as the company’s chief company. Their dedication and hard
made up the original crew. Sy estimator and corporate secretary work is what has kept the company
Milbocker passed away in 1965. and helped grow the company going for 50 years and will keep it
The company was incorporated into what it is today. During the moving towards the future.
30 MITA CROSSSECTION FALL 2018PRIDE. FAMILY. LEGACY.
M & M Excavating Company:
Celebrating 45 Years
I
t all started in 1971, when two
brothers moved “Up North”
from Detroit. With one bulldozer
for rent in front of their small gas
station, they began clearing not
only Northern Michigan land but
also clearing the way to a new
future. That excavating business
grew and built a reputation of
honest quality that became highly
sought after. Experience building
roads to oil well sites during the
oil & gas boom of the 80s, led to
MDOT pre-qualification. And as
they say … the rest is history. M & M Excavating Company of Gaylord is celebrating 45 years of doing business.
Continued on page 32
M&M Excavating Company
Celebrating 45 Years in Construction
Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition.
We wish you continued success in the future!
Your Friends at The McNish Group
26622 Woodward Avenue, Suite 200
Royal Oak, Michigan 48067
248.544.4800
Insurance. Bonding. Financial Services.
www.mcnish.com
WWW.THINKMITA.ORG 31Continued from page 31
Today, the M & M Family
expands far beyond the brothers
M & M Excavating Company to children, grandchildren and
cousins. And before too long, co-
17 Old State Road Phone: 989-732-6277
workers, whether related by blood
Gaylord, Mich. 49735 Fax: 989-732-9650
or not, become family. Together
www.m-mexcavating.com
they take pride in the legacy
Ken Nowicki John Landrie they leave on each project, often
President COO recalling “we built that.” And looking
ken@m-mexcavating.com john@m-mexcavating.com to the future, they take pride in the
legacy they leave for generations to
Mark Nowicki Brandie Meisner come.
Vice President CFO It’s the work they do as a family
mark@m-mexcavating.com brandie@m-mexcavating.com that makes them proud.
Kotz Sangster Wysocki P.C.
Celebrating 40 Years
K
otz Sangster Wysocki P.C. is a and construction-related entities to achieve an
business law firm concentrating on the established profile in the business community.
representation of middle market companies In addition, during this period, Kotz Sangster
throughout the State of Michigan and beyond. solidified its expertise as a business law firm
Established in 1978, the firm started with three and developed specialized practice areas in
lawyers and focused its practice primarily on Mergers and Acquisitions, Financial Services,
companies engaged in the automotive supply, Construction Law, and Health Care Law. Notably,
aerospace, manufacturing, and construction in Construction Law, Kotz Sangster’s services
industries. From its beginning, Kotz Sangster cover contract review/negotiation, development
has been located in the Renaissance Center in work, risk mitigation, and claims matters,
Detroit and was one of the original tenants. including litigation and arbitration.
During the 1980s and 1990s, the firm In the 2000s, Kotz Sangster expanded its
focused on developing relationships with platform and established a Bloomfield Hills
commercial banks, accounting firms, financial office, as well as four offices covering Grand
and business consultants, insurance agencies Rapids and Southwest Michigan.
32 MITA CROSSSECTION FALL 2018Today, Kotz Sangster has grown to nearly 40 EMPLOYEES: Over 60, including attorneys
highly-skilled lawyers with an expanded base of and professional staff.
clients in all areas of its practice throughout the KEY TO SUCCESS: What matters to our
State of Michigan and beyond. clients is responsive service, excellent legal
SPECIALTIES: Administrative proceedings; advice, creative thinking and outcomes that work.
claim litigation/arbitration; construction Our approach is to learn about our clients’ goals
project development; contract drafting and and work with purpose and efficiency to achieve
negotiation; construction-related environmental the best possible legal outcome.
law; insurance and bonding; lien, bond, Trust
Fund Act compliance and enforcement; post-
bid; risk analysis and mitigation plan; project
administration; strategic assistance with project
execution.
Detroit • Bloomfield Hills • Grand Rapids • Southwest Michigan
40 Years of Construction Law
RESPONSIVE SERVICE. Contractors and Owners alike trust Kotz Sangster
to provide a solid legal foundation for bidding,
EXPERIENCED COUNSEL. contracting, labor, litigation and more. In 40 years
we’ve built a vast body of experience and a
Kotz Sangster is your law firm. reputation for achieving winning results in
Michigan’s construction industry. Here's to 40 more!
Jeff Sangster (313) 259.8655 • Ed Boucher (313) 259.8582 • kotzsangster.com
WWW.THINKMITA.ORG 33Site Development
Celebrating 40 Years
S
ite Development, Inc. (SDI) is a construction estimating through
company in Southeastern Michigan that completion of the
specializes in earthwork and underground project, which
utilities for any type of building program. Over creates a great
the years SDI has had steady growth in the teamwork, family
industry and when it comes to the work they like environment,
do, many owners say their building programs and a sense of
have benefited by having SDI on their projects, accomplishment
since SDI provides complete site development for the entire team.
services. If it’s outside the building, SDI self- Everyone has input
performs many critical aspects of the work and that is helpful in
those they don’t, there is a very competent group winning the bid
of subcontractors, material suppliers and trucking and successfully
firms that work with SDI on many projects. completing the project.
Leonard J. Theisen is the sole owner and Teamwork is such a strong value that the concept
president of the company. The firm began of “partnering” was implemented in the mid-
operations in 1978 as a general contractor and 1990’s. SDI continues this as a standard way of
the construction crews worked on small-scale doing business to this day.
renovations as well as new building construction. Safety is extremely important throughout the
In 1986, SDI had the largest workload with the construction industry particularly in the specialty
Army Corps of Engineers in Michigan. After of earthwork as there are many unknowns during
having out of state offices in Kentucky and excavations and the installation of underground
Florida, Leonard found it beneficial to focus on utilities. However, SDI has a great safety record
the Detroit area and spend time with his family. and has received many safety awards over the
Being that Leonard was most interested in years.
earthwork construction, he guided the company SDI is also a construction community advocate
in that direction, discontinuing general contracting for starting new companies. Several years ago,
at that time. SDI continues to be a leader in the a Detroit based minority firm, Blaze, was formed
industry and specializing in complex earthwork with the help of SDI as a specialty company
and underground utilities. similar to SDI. After several years of mentoring
Leonard, a “hands on leader,” has guided and utilizing SDI personnel and equipment, they
the company to many successful projects in are now a stand-alone company working on many
healthcare, churches, airports, automotive projects in the Detroit area.
manufacturers, retailers and government Seeing the success, SDI ventured again in
agencies. Leonard knows well how many facets helping establish another Detroit based minority
there are to the business and has surrounded firm, RBV Contracting. RBV has worked with
himself with very trusted and technically SDI on several joint venture projects and also
competent people in the office and in the field. He performs work on many projects of their own. This
says “We take care of our employees and in turn is another great success story in the making.
they take care of us. We owe our success to the In the last several years, SDI has promoted
people that work for us.” long standing employees to positions of more
The project managers, project engineers, responsibility and looks forward to many more
estimators, general superintendents and years of successful projects.
administrative staff work hand in hand from
34 MITA CROSSSECTION FALL 2018You can also read
