january 24 2011 weekly bulletin

Marin Builders Association ◆ Weekly Bulletin ◆

in this issueAuction Prizes.................................................1

Welcome our new members.........................2

MBA Membership .........................................3 Directors & Officer.........................................4

EPA Seminar.....................................................5

Marin Legislation by C. Mazzoni................6

Sacremento Update: Part 1 of 2...................7

FREE goverment & Contracting Courses & Seminars...........................................................8

Wellness- Stretching.- Bilingual & Spanish......................................................................9-10

MBA’s CPR ~First Aid Class.......................11

Safety Topic.- Bilingual & Spanish............12

Requesting Sub Bids................................13-14

County Of Marin Permits...........................15

Permits............................................................16

Crab Feed.................................................17-18

Benefits/Calendar.........................................19

Marin home & Gargen Show.....................20

Hudson Street Design............................21-22

Liens/Defaults.........................................23-24

MBAMembership Application .................25

Project Bid Schedule..............................26-30

Members Corner...........................................31

Sacramento Update: Part 2 of 2.................32

Kalb’s Q&A For Contractors......................33

Classified Ads................................................34

Water Watch..................................................35

www.marinba.org ◆ [email protected]

contAct MBA

600 Las Gallinas AvenueSan Rafael, CA 94903

◆office: 415-462-1220

Fax: 415-462-1225◆

[email protected]

MBA Weekly Bulletin

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January 24, 2011 issue #4

Some of our Auction PrizeS...

tWO NIGHt stAY At tHE vILLAGIO

INN & sPA, INCLUDING DINNER fOR tWO!

tICKEtS!Couples Massage

O’Mai Day Spa

In Sonoma


January 10,2011 Issue * 51www.marinba.org ◆ [email protected]

Golden West enviorMentAl sPeciAlities, inc. (r)john P. ZopfiP.O Box 6062Vacaville 95696(707)301-7653, CSLB # 690710General Engineering ContractorRefs: Bob & joetta MalkassianLeslie j. Faulkin,Leonard Le Barre

MArin lAndscAPe MAteriAls (r)Bill Koenig7596 Redwood Blvd.Novato 94945(415)897-1337, CSLB# N/ALandscape SuppliesRefs: Lassen Forest Products, Pacific SodReauser, Inc. Dutra Materials

January - Welcome our neW members!

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novAto kitchens & BAths (r)Paul Price1066 Machin avenueNovato, 94945(415)897-8504, CSLB# N/ACabinets & FixturesRec BY: Renewed MemebershipRefs: Steve Villa, Hal Chandler, Ron Cutler

tWo Good PeoPle construction & desiGn (r)Rikard Twogood866 Estancia WaySan Rafael 94903(415) 618-9019, CLSB # 932247Design/BuildRec by: Alicia LatelshRefs: Morgan Farrand, Dan LevineAnne Robinson




MBA MembershipBrings You Out In Front

e-BulletinMembers receive a weekly e-bulletin featuring Projects to Bid, Bid results, legislative news industryArticles,legal information, Advertising, safety topics and More.

lArGe PlAn rooMlocated at our office for members to check out the plans and specs, review and prepare estimates in separate booths with wireless connection. open Monday—Friday, 8am to 5pm. overnight and weekend check out is available.

online PlAnrooMMBA offers online planroom access to all members. information is in real time. All members have the ability to subscribe to any of the other participating exchanges online planrooms.

seMinAr/conFerence rooM rentAlPeter Arrigoni community room is available for meetings trainings, seminars, gatherings.

WeBsite & construction reFerrAl GuideMBA has an extensive website with an alphabetical and category membership directory which is an excellent resource for homeowners and associates. the construction referral Guide is published and dis-tributed countywide.

Green BuildinG coMMitteeGreen Building committee serves the construction industry by promoting the best green buildingpractices, providing quality education opportunities to our members and working responsibility with ourcommunity for the enhancement of the Green Building industry.

MArin hoMe & GArden eXPothe home and Garden expo is a great opportunity to present your exceptional products and services directly to the consumer in an educational and sales environment. 415/507-1537

to Join: www.marinba.org or [email protected]: 415-462-1220

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AdvertisinG & MArketinGMBA offers competitive marketing opportunities,including advertising in both the weekly bulletin, and website home page and sponsorships of events and seminars

GrouP insurAnceMBA members can save time and money by enrolling in our group workers compensation and health insurance programs.

educAtionAl seMinArsMBA seminars & trainings include lien lawBusiness Management, oshA compliance, and GreenBuilding,and more.

sociAl FunctionsAnnually MBA hosts the scholarship Awards ceremony, Golf tournament, crab Feed, holiday open house Architecture design competition, health Fair and more.

scholArshiP ProGrAMMBA members, employees, and their families are eligible to apply for the annual scholarship Award Program.

discounted ForMs And PuBlicAtionscA Preliminary lien notices, Mechanic’s liens, lien releases, Payment release Forms.

leGislAtive MoitorinGrepresentation is provided through staff and lobbyist written testimony and personal appearances before governing bodies.

PerMission to use MBA loGoexclusive use of MBA logo on member websites and collateral to demonstrate their affiliation withMBA and commitment to the construction industry.




2010-2011 MBA DiRECToRS & oFFiCERS

PRESiDEnTDave Trahan - Patriot Mechanical

ViCE PRESiDEnTMark Silvia - Marin Mechanical inc

ChiEF FinAnCiAL oFFiCERJeff Mertel - Mertel Carpets inc

SECRETARyAimi Dutra - The Dutra Group

PAST PRESiDEnTJeff Grady - Grady Consulting Services

EXECUTiVE DiRECToR/SAFETy DiRECToRKlif Knoles

Barry Arends - Morris Roofing Tyler Doherty - Cal West Rentals inc

Gary Frugoli - Construction ConsultantPeter Migale - Migale Painting CKeith Dotto - Dotto Glass, inc.

Jim Schalich - Schalich Brothers ConstructionDick Ghilotti - Ghilotti Construction CompanyDave Garbarino - Marin Sanitary Service, inc.

Jeff Pottorff - north Bay Landscape ManagementDiane henderson- DMh Land Use Planning

STAFFPaula Krause - office Manager

Barbara Jones - Membership ManagerDiane Van Renselaar - Plan Room Technician

Kellie Buono - Administrative Assistant/ReceptionChriss Daniels - Publications Editor/Website/Media

Casey Mazzoni - Legislative Analyst

The weekly bulletin is owned by MBA & is available to member firms only: www.marinba.org or email

660 Las Gallinas Avenue, San Rafael, CA 94903Publisher: Klif Knoles

Publication Editor: Chriss [email protected]

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Marin county legislative updateBy casey Mazzoni

sMArt

sMArt Board ok’s trainslast month the Board of directors of sonoma-Marin Area rail transit unanimously approved a contract with sumitomo corp. of America to build sMArt’s passenger rail vehicles at a new plant in illinois. the contract will cover the manufacture and delivery of up to 18 rail cars (nine two-car trains) and cost $56,853,739 – more than $23 million below the original engineer’s estimate for vehicles.

sMArt train to go the downtown san rafaelit’s official downtown san rafael will be part of sMArt’s first building phase. the problem is sMArt is not quite sure how much it will cost to get the train to the station.

the sonoma-Marin Area rail transit board last week approved the downtown san rafael station after it initially axed it at a meeting in november.

the stop was reconsidered after the Metropolitan transportation commission strongly suggested sMArt officials needed to find a way to build to downtown san rafael or risk losing $22 million in regional dollars it is scheduled to receive.

despite the approval of the downtown san rafael stop, there are obstacles.Puerto suello hill tunnel, which would bring the train through terra linda into downtown san rafael, is in need of engineering and seismic work that could cost $10 million.


Marin legislation

casey Mazzoni, legislative Analyst

Page 6


Another issue is at the Bettini transit center, where a redesign may be needed because some of the bus turning areas aren’t compatible with rail. that work may cost $6 million.

As you recall, voters passed a quarter-cent sales tax in Marin and sonoma counties in november 2008 with the promise of a complete 70-mile rail line and adjacent bike and pedestrian path would be built from larkspur to cloverdale. since then that plan has buckled due to the poor economy. now the plan has an approximate $350 million shortfall.

But sMArt is moving forward with the plan to establish rail service from downtown san rafael to santa rosa to start in 2014. the rest of the project, including a link to the larkspur Ferry terminal, would be built later.

For more information on this issue or any other issues of interest to the construction industry please contact casey Mazzoni at 415.342.3328 or [email protected]


sAcrAMento uPdAte Part 1 of 2

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January 24, 2011 issue #4www.marinba.org ◆ [email protected]

Jerry Brown 2.0 - Older and Wiser, but Can He Prevail?BY: Phil Vermeulen, Legislative Advocate

Jerry Brown 2.0 - Older and WiserJerry Brown is different now than the Jerry Brown circa 1975: He takes risks, fiscal and political, and he courts politicians on both sides of the aisle. Quite a change from his predecessornotes the LA Times' George Skelton. "Schwarzenegger was always pitching, promising cure-all budget remedies such as a rainy-day fund. The scary thing was he actually seemed to believe that what he was selling was the total solution to red ink."

"Brown was like an old physician calmly prescribing pills and pain. If the patient didn't want to undergo the treatment, wellthat's no skin off his nose. The patient's condition would get worse. The doc's life would go on."

"It is better to take our medicine now and get the state on a balanced footing," Brown told reporters." One result of those risks is that his budget proposals may face an array of constitutional court challenges, reports Capitol Weekly's John Howard. "California cities and redevelopment agencies denounced the proposal, while the counties remain wary. No decisions have been reached by anyone on whether to go to state or federal court – or both - to try and block the plan, which would shift $5.9 billion in state programs to the counties and raise $5.9 billion in taxes to finance it. As the proposal unfolds, it would shift $7.3 billion by 2015 and ultimately $10 billion, the administration said." "But those discussions are under way, and in the end they likely will depend on the outcome of negotiations in the coming weeks with the Brown administration. Barring a breakthrough, a court fight is likely. Brown the former mayor of Oakland, is considered well versed in redevelopment issues."

Marin Builders Association ◆ Weekly Bulletin ◆ Page 8

January 24, 2011 issue #4www.marinba.org ◆ [email protected]



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As we age, our muscles tighten and we have less range of motion in our joints. Simple activities that we once took for granted, like cutting our toenailspicking things up from the floor or zipping a dress can all become difficult. A regular stretching program can help lengthen your muscles and make these daily activities easier and more enjoyable.

Improved circulationStretching improves circulation of blood to the muscles and joints. Increased blood circulation, of course, brings nutrients to our cells and removes waste byproducts.

Better postureChronically tense and tight muscles contribute to poor posture, which in turn can affect the functioning of our internal organs, not to mention our appearance. Stretching the muscles of the lower back, shoulders and chest can help keep the back in better alignment and improve posture.

Relaxation and stress reliefStretching, done properly, helps to relax tense muscles which result from stress. The feeling of relaxation brings a sense of well-being and relief from tension.

Reduce or prevent lower back painGreater flexibility and range of motion in the hamstrings and muscles of the hips and pelvis help to reduce the stress on your spine that causes lower back pain.

Wellness tiPsstretchinG BeFore the BeGinninG oF your dAy


Wellness tiPsstretchinG BeFore the BeGinninG oF your dAy

sPAnish

El aumento de la flexibilidad y la amplitud de movimiento.

A medida que envejecemos, nuestros músculos se contraen y tenemos menos rango de movimiento en las articulaciones. Actividades simples que una vez dio por sentado, como cortar nuestras uñas de los pies, recogiendo cosas del suelo o comprimir un vestido, todo puede llegar a ser difícil. Un programa regular de estiramiento puede ayudar a alargar los músculos y hacer que estas actividades diarias sean más fáciles y más agradable.

Mejora de la circulaciónEl estiramiento mejora la circulación de la sangre a los músculos y las articulaciones. aumento de la circu-lación sanguínea, por supuesto, aporta nutrientes a nuestras células y elimina los subproductos de los re-siduos.

Una mejor posturamúsculos crónicamente tensos y apretados contribuyen a una mala postura, que a su vez puede afectar el funcionamiento de nuestros órganos internos, por no hablar de nuestra apariencia. Estirar los músculos de la espalda, los hombros y el pecho puede ayudar a mantener la espalda en una mejor alineación y mejorar la postura.

La relajación y el alivio de tensiónEl estiramiento, se hace correctamente, ayuda a relajar los músculos tensos que se derivan de la tensión. La sensación de relajación trae una sensación de bienestar y alivio de la tensión.

Reducir o prevenir el dolor de espaldaUna mayor flexibilidad y rango de movimiento en los músculos isquiotibiales y los músculos de las caderas y la pelvis ayudan a reducir la presión sobre la columna vertebral que causa dolor de espalda baja.

www.marinba.org ◆ [email protected] ◆ [email protected] January 24, 2011 issue #4

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Safety topic


Safety iS in your HandS

Wear proper hand protection. Leather gloves can protect your hands in many jobs. They can provide protection when handling rough or abrasive materials and give you better gripping power. They can also protect hands from sharp objects, thorns, and cutting tools. Some gloves are especially designed to protect the hands from solvents, petroleum products, and many agricultural chemicals. To work best, gloves should fit correctly. Overly large gloves can interfere with work or get caught in moving parts, putting your hands in danger.

Hand protection can also include specific creams applied before work to guard against dermatitis causing grease, paint, chemicals, etc. A good hand lotion can soothe and moisten dry or cracked hands after a job.

Keep hands out of harm’s way. Recognize the hazards of the job whether working with sharp objects cutting tools, chemicals, pinch points or rotating equipment. Follow safety procedures even if you’ve gotten away with short cuts before. Even though a job may have its own hazards, basic safety principles should always be remembered.

SPAniShGuantes de piel pueden proteger sus manos en muchos puestos de trabajo. Pueden proporcionar protección al manipular materiales ásperos o abrasivos y darle el poder mejor agarre. También pueden proteger las manos de objetos afilados, espinas, y herramientas de corte. Algunos guantes son especialmente diseñados para proteger las manos de los disolventes, derivados del petróleo, y muchos productos químicos agrícolas. Para trabajar mejor, los guantes deben ajustarse correctamente. Guantes demasiado grandes pueden interferir con el trabajo o quedar atrapados en las piezas móviles, poniendo sus manos en peligro.

Protección de las manos también puede incluir cremas específicas aplicadas antes del trabajo para proteger contra la grasa que causan la dermatitis, pintura, productos químicos, etc Una buena crema de manos puede aliviar y humedecer las manos secas o agrietadas después de un trabajo.

Mantenga las manos fuera de peligroReconocer los riesgos del puesto de trabajo si el trabajo con objetos cortantes, herramientas de corte, productos químicos, los puntos de pellizco o equipos rotativos. Siga los procedimientos de seguridad, incluso si has salido con cortes poco antes. A pesar de que un trabajo puede tener sus propios peligros, los principios básicos de seguridad siempre debe ser recordado.



requesting sub BidsTo place an outreach ad please contact [email protected]

Deadline for Outreach Ad is Tuesday for the following Monday publish date.

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John Plane Construction, Inc. is seeking qualified DVBE/SBE subcontractorssuppliers to perform a commercially useful function for the following project:

Project #: 11092Project name: Gateway and kipp charterschoolsAwarding department: sFusd

Location: San FranciscoBid Date: 1/20/11Trades needed: All Applicable Trades

Contact: Vikki AliotoPhone: (415) 468-0555 Ext. 12Fax: (415) 468-0540Email: [email protected]

John Plane Construction, Inc.100 North Hill Drive, Suite 12Brisbane, CA 94005

John Plane Construction, Inc. is seeking qualified DVBE/SBE subcontractorssuppliers to perform a commercially useful function for the following project:

Project #: 11091Project name: 1350 7th Avenue schoolModernizationAwarding department: sFusd

Location: San FranciscoBid Date: 1/25/11Trades needed: All Applicable Trades

Contact: Vikki AliotoPhone: (415) 468-0555 Ext. 12Fax: (415) 468-0540Email: [email protected]

John Plane Construction, Inc.100 North Hill Drive, Suite 12Brisbane, CA 94005

THIS IS A PREVAILING WAGE JOB

Svala Construction, Inc. (SCI)We are requesting quotations from all qualified and certified subcontractors and material suppliers for the following project:

1350 7th avenue school of moderizationsan Francisco, cA.Bid date: January 25th, 2011 @ 3:00p.m.

Svala Construction, Inc. (SCI)380 Beach roadBurlingame, ca 94010650-343-8233fax: 650-343-8238We are an equal oppurtunity employer


www.marinba.org ◆ [email protected] January 24, 2011 issue #4January 24, 2011 issue #4

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MArin county PerMits issue & received JAnuAry 15th, 2011

issued

Janis Stone Cohen Mitchell Plant Marden Duncan David Greenbrae heights hoa Strawberry Village Retail San Rafael Rock Quarry San Rafael Rock Quarry San Rafael Rock Quarry Cicala Conte C henn Christopher Ward Denise Ward Marin City Community

.noVA DESiGnS, inC. REAL GooDS SoLAR, MARin ShERFEy, GREGoRy SLACK & Son CREATiVE WooD WoRKS oWnER oWnER/BUiLDER oWnER/BUiLDER oWnER/BUiLDER oWnER/BUiLDER hAyES & ASSoC ConST. MyERS, CURTiS MEyLAn ConST.

1047 Bel Marin Keys Blvd 526 Pine Crest Rd 297 SEA-drift Rd Stinson Beach 6 Wolfe Grade Greenbrae 122 Tiburon Blvd 800 Redwood hwy # 612 1000 Pt San Pedro Rd 1000 Pt San Pedro Rd 1000 Pt San Pedro Rd 20 Briar Rd Kentfield 200 S Ridgewood Rd 30 issaquah Dock Sausalito 630 Drake Ave

Kitchen Photovoltaic Re-Side Bathroom Replace Deck install Coun Addition Remodel Addition Kitchen Rem Demo Deck

$40,000 $15,501 $35,000 $9,000 $17,500 $8,000 $526,599 $10,594 $37,155 $20,000 $10,000 $23,000 $8,000

Owner Contractor Site Address Type Value

Owner Site Address Type Value

Received

Thornton Bryan Flood Albert Smith William Rodrigue Tyler Grutter Paul Gruchacz Mei-Lien Mac Kinnon Elinor Swain Franklin T- Mobile Lovelace Thomas henn Christopher Winterhalter Eric Marin City Comm

326 Melrose Ave Mill Valley 202 Mcallister Ave Kent field 275 Grandview Ave novato 5 Ethel Ln Mill Valley 311 Ross Dr Mill Valley 101 Crane Dr San Anselmo 17 Calle Del Sierra Stinson 1062 Bel Marin Keys 17 Wolfe Canyon Rd 226 Panoramic hwy 200 S Ridgewood Rd 4964 Ranch Rd 630 Drake Ave .

Kitchen Photovoltaic Re-Side Bathroom Replace Deck install Coun Addition Remodel Addition Kitchen Rem Demo Deck

$26,486 $15,000 $16,520 $15,000 $150,000 $160,000 $48,000 $10,000 $1,610 $10,000 $10,000 $20,000 $8,000



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PERMITS

1/10/11 1/10/11 1/10/11 1/10/11 1/10/11 1/10/11 1/10/11 1/10/11 1/10/11 1/10/11 1/11/11 1/11/11 1/11/11 1/11/11 1/11/11 1/12/11 1/12/11 1/12/11 1/12/11 1/12/11 1/12/11 1/12/11 1/12/11 1/13/11 1/13/11 1/13/11 1/13/11

novato FF. CARTER CoLLETTE DoUGLAS RAy Charles hildebrand Management 4 hoA's LUnDGREn CARL Jennifer orton BAin BRUCE SToCKinG AnnE noel Greenfield Catherine Wagner ViERRA JEAn BREWER BREnDAn BiRnBERG CoRy A Kimberly Clayton MC VEy John A RUSSo DiAnnE niXon LAURA Michael Maher JCC Properties Landing at hamilton Landing at hamilton Landing at hamilton RUSSo ERnEST J TiEBoUT SUSAn BRoADhURST TERESA

PRiBUSS EnGinEERinG BEnJAMin FRAnKLin onGARo & SonS JAMES T GoFF hEATinG FREDDiE FREiTAS JR. CAL-BAy SERViCE REnEWAL By AnDERSEn Roy ALBERT TAnnER oWnER-BUiLDER GoLD hAMMER ConST. MoSER MEChAniCAL o'ConnELL PLUMBinG RoSE ConSTRUCTion CALiFoRniA hEATinG LiC.ConTRACT. GEnE BURCh PLUMBinG oWnER-BUiLDER oWnER-BUiLDER oWnER-BUiLDER TERRA noVA inDUST. oWnER-BUiLDER oWnER-BUiLDER oWnER-BUiLDER De Ayala Construction ALLEn hEATinG SUnGATE EnERGy SUnGATE EnERGy

777 SAn MARin DR 1181 MiDWAy CT 455 FAiRWAy DR 65 PiCo ViSTA 101 ALBion CT 260 SAn RAMon 35 CARoB WAy 125 PEBBLE BEACh 767 RoWLAnD BLVD 355 FAiRWAy DR 1560 BUChAnAn ST 23 PEPPER CREEK 91 PAChECo CREEK 5 AnTon WAy 5 ACAPULCo CT 361 FAiRWAy DR 632 SAnTAnA RD 720 LAMonT AVE 84 TRiSh DR 224 VinTAGE WAy 27 AUDUBon WAy 31 AUDUBon WAy 35 AUDUBon WAy 916 SUnnyBRAE 1431 ELM DR 806 PAXTon ViLLA 25 ARRoyo Ln

PLUMBinG hEATER hVAC MEChAn. ConST. hVAC WinDoW ConST. ConST. ConST. hVAC hEATER WinDoW hVAC ConST. hVAC ConST. ConST. ConST. iMPRoV. nEW SFD nEW SFD nEW SFD ConST. hVAC ConST. ConST.

5,000 5,127 6,200 7,000 7,500 7,600 8,660 20,000 25,000 27,000 5,200 6,000 6,000 16,000 18,000 6,175 15,000 16,500 17,000 40,000 208,000 210,600 210,600 6,500 6,630 8,770 9,668

issue Date

Owner Contractor Site Address Type Value

Novato

1/13/11 1/13/11 1/13/11 1/12/11 1/12/11 1/13/11 1/10/11 1/10/11 1/10/11

Richard Singer Main Street Properties Main Street Properties John Gambs PBS invest. Ronald Benza Brian Riley Bhizadi Jelvani Frank Jonelis

Andes General Const. Tarantino Plumbing Tarantino Plumbing Aaero heating Marshall White Const. AMERiCAn ViSion S.F. Builders h.J Construction Burkell Plumbing

16 Mark Terrace 655 Redwood hwy. 655 Redwood hwy. 4895 Paradise Drive 55 Marinero 13 Cecilia Court 22 Ceila Court 9 Wilkins Court 8 Buckwheat Ct

Repair Plumbing Plumbing Elect & Mech. Alteration Replacement Elect. &Plumb. Const. Mech. Plumb

5,000 6,500 17,240 $9,577 180,000 25,075 20,000 70,000 11,000

Tiburon



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SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

FUNDRAISER

“CRAB FEED” Friday – February 11, 2011

Margaret Todd Senior Center 1560 Hill Road, Novato

SPONSORSHIP FORM

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Our company would like to support the Marin Builders Association Scholarship Fund with a contribution of: $50 $100 $250 $500 $1,000 Other_______ All contributions will benefit the Marin Builders Association

Scholarship Program. Sponsorship includes your company name listed as a sponsor on all advertising at the event. Company:________________________Contact:___________________________ Address:__________________________Phone:___________________________

(Marin Builders Association Scholarship Fund 501C3, Tax ID#94-2540274)



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liens/hoMesteAds/deFAults




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ProJect Bid scheduleBid list subject to change prior to bid date,

please check with association.

24-7 updated Bid schedules online: www.marinba.org




ProJect Bid schedule

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Bid list subject to change prior to bid date,please check with association.



ProJect Bid schedule Bid list subject to change prior to bid date,please check with association.


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www.marinba.org ◆ [email protected] January 24, 2011 issue #4

Publication rules for submission of articles to the MBA Weekly Bulletin

Members cornerLimited to 600 words and edited for length, grammar, spelling, clarity, style, libel and civility. We do not publish form letters, petitions or consumer complaints. Please include writers name, address and phone number. All submissions become the property of Marin Builders Association and cannot be returned.note: We would like a photo (jpeg) head shot and can offer ¼ page ad space to *fill out page for ½ the price.

*Ad space only available to fill out page if necessary.

mEmBERS CORNER

Tile, Do it once, Do it rightBy: Mick GrigginOwner: London Tile

As the owner of London Tile, a tile and stone installation contractor working mostly in Marin County and San Francisco, with a client base of well educated and successful people, i never ceased to be amazed by the bad decisions a few apparently otherwise informed people can make when remodeling or redecorating their homes.

i received a frantic phone from the friend of a previous client. Just a few weeks earlier she had her kitchen and dining area floor resurfaced using a rectangular shaped porcelain tile and already there were quite significant cracks appearing in the grout joint lines and some tiles could actually be felt moving when walked upon and other lines were not aligned properly.

i went to the client’s house and to visit the residence and give my professional opinions to how to remedy the situation. After a few preliminary questions about the installer and his methods it was clear to me what happened.

i have encountered this situation before. A unlicensed painter was sprucing up the interior walls with some fresh new paint and did such a good job that the client asked him if he knew how to install porcelain tile. The painter mentioned he had in fact set tiles and re-tiled his mother-in-laws bathroom last summer. With that said the painter now-un licensed contractor agreed to install these quite expensive tiles in this highly visible prominent location. The method of installation he chose was quite acceptable though incorrectly executed. There was nothing adhering the hardibacker to the plywood and preventing the nails from moving once the floor started to be walked on. The correct method of installation was obviously not done. our preferred method at London Tile when installing backer board is to use latex modified cement thinset mortar to affix the backer board to the floor, preventing any movement.

There was no way to do a quick fix to the expensive floor. The hardibacker would have to be removed and installed correctly, otherwise first the grout then the tiles would continue to crack. obviously in order to do that the tiles would have to be removed. no, we couldn’t guarantee to remove the tiles without them breaking and yes, it would cost more for us to stand there and clean the mortar off the tiles than it would be cost to buy replacement tiles.

We managed to complete the work for the client and she did indeed learn a great lesson:

Do it once, do it right-use a licensed contractor!


www.marinba.org ◆ [email protected] January 24, 2011 issue #4

sAcrAMento uPdAte Part 2 of 2

Governor Jerry Brown unveiled his budget plan this week which proposes large cuts to nearly all state programs while hopeful Californians will agree to extend previous temporary tax hikes for an additional five years that are set to expire mid-2011.

Brown’s proposed spending plan eliminates an 18-month budget gap estimated at $25.4 billion, comprised of a current year shortfall of $8.2 billion and a budget year shortfall of $17.2 billion.

Overall, the budget proposal includes $12.5 billion in spending reductions, $12 billion in tax extensions and modifications, $1.9 billion in other budgetary methods to close the gap and provide for a $1 billion reserve. A combination of $26.4 billion package is needed in order to also provide a $1 billion reserve. In addition, the deficit will grow to $26.6 billion if the proposed sale of state office buildings, blocked by court order, does not proceed, requiring the budget to deficit to grow to $27.6 billion in order to have a reserve.

The budget also proposes to change the role that state and local governments play in local development activities by eliminating state tax benefits for enterprise zones and phasing out the current funding mechanism for redevel-opment agencies. This will return billions in property tax revenues to schools, cities and counties and help pay for public safety, education and other services.

As part of his budget plan, Governor Brown wants vot-ers to renew $9 billion in higher sales, income and vehicle taxes in a special election this spring.

The Legislature passed the increases as part of the 2009 budget, and they are set to expire by the end of June. The legislature’s approval is needed to put the extension on the ballot.

The Governor will ask voters to prolong a 0.25-percentage point surcharge on state income taxesa 0.5-percentage-point increase in the vehicle license fee, a 1-cent increase in the state sales tax rate and a reduction in the tax credit for depedentsfrom $300 to $99.

In May 2009, voters rejected a two-year extension of the same taxes in a special election called by Governor Schwarzenegger. Governor Brown will ask the voters to reconsider.

For transportation specific programs in the Governor’s proposal, Brown is advocating the position of the heavy construction industry to reenact the 2010 Fuel Tax Swap in response to passage of Proposition 26 in November 2010. Proposition 26 requires a two-thirds vote thresh-old for any tax measures occurring after October of 2009.

Given GOP opposition to tax hikes, there are contingency plans to use an obscure state law to bypass the necessary two-thirds threshold — and thus the need for Republican support — to place the tax question on the ballot. Brown is quoted as saying it would be "much better if this is a bipartisan effort" but left the door to such a maneuver open.

The Senate Republic leader said that "zero" members of his caucus would cast votes under the current proposal and Assembly Republicans stand united " against the plan to "place the same tax increases that voters overwhelmingly rejected less than two years ago back on the ballot."

The game is on and a high-stakes game it is. Much could happen and changes will made before an actual vote on a budget plan.

Brown is doing his best by staying in constant con-tact with all four legislative caucus. It is still early to predict if he can unite the legislature to complete the budget process quickly in his first months as Governor and then convince voters to give the state more of their money. Failure of the voters to approve an extension of taxes will require even more reductions and a vote on a new budget plan.



ProJect Bid schedulekalb's Q&A for contractors Week of 1/24/2011By david kalb, President of capitol services, inc.

Page 33


While your California Driver’s license is good almost anywhere in the U.S. the contractor’s license has definite limits. Do you know which states will recognize your credentials without further testing? As contractors seek out opportunity across State borders, others are coming into California searching for business and looking for ways to unite for mutual profit…

Q: i was wondering if new Mexico (nM) has updated their Reciprocity agreement with any states in regards to Contractors Licensing? Can you help our company with determining which states reciprocate with nevada (NV)? Is there a good place to find out more general information on which states require our company to be licensed (we’re looking to expand)?

A: nM only has a reciprocal agreement as it relates to journeyman electricians but none for contractors licensing. nV has reciprocity agreements with CA, UT and AZ. Check out www.cutredtape.com for how best to find information on contractors licensing nationwide.

Q: I should know this but wanted to confirm just what a “B” contractor can do. There is an upcoming project which involves building a structure plus all related site work. For the structure, i plan on either performing or subbing the concrete, painting, drywall, flooring, roofing etc. i also plan on hiring an “A” to do all the site work and utilities. Do you see any problems with that?

A: As a General “B”, you can certainly take on this project and self-perform or subcontract the various trades mentioned as well as virtually any other trade or craft (except fire sprinklers and well drilling).

Q: We would like to form a Joint Venture with another corporation. They’re licensed in CA but our company is not (we’re from outside the State). i see on the Contractor’s Board web site that there is a Joint Venture application.

Q: We would like to form a Joint Venture with another corporation. They’re licensed in CA but our company is not (we’re from outside the State). i see on the Contractor’s Board web site that there is a Joint Venture application. is this the one we should use? Since their company already has a Responsible Managing Employee can we use the same person for the Joint Venture? Also, I read about a fingerprint requirement. Who has to go through this?

A: you can only use a Joint Venture (JV) application if all entities are licensed and in good standing in CA. Since one of the two entities is presently unlicensed, your first step would be to file an Application for Original Contractors License with the Contractors Board (CSLB). Once you have completed all testing, filed the appropriate Bond and Worker’s Compensation Certificate, and all listed personnel have cleared fingerprinting; a license number would be issued. Only then can a JV application be filed. As for the qualifying individual, the Board does not require that you designate a RME or RMo on a Joint Venture (although you must list one on the original application).

Because this overall process will likely take a few months, if you’re looking to bid on an upcoming project before then, it may be advisable to apply for a Partnership license. While not the most common avenue, the CSLB will accept an application for a partnership of entities (in your case two corporations). The CSLB may allow the RME on the existing license to be the Qualifier on a second license; however, this is determined on a case-by-case basis.

While knowledge is power, knowing where to go for the answers is half the battle. Get expert assistance immediately when you call 866-443-0657, email [email protected], or write me at Capitol Services, inc., 1225 8th St. Ste. 580, Sacramento, CA 95814. Research past columns at www.cutredtape.com.



clAssiFied AdsClassified ads are provided free to MBA members & staff.

Please advise if position is filled or commodity is [email protected]

eMPloyMent oPPortunities ◆ oFFice leAse or sAle ◆ Business iteMs For sAle

Page 34

contractor yard with office$3,200.00 per month

Contractor yard with single wide office trailer

Enclosed storage with fenced in yard. Approximately

4,900.00 sq. ft. totalEast San Rafael on Kerner

(close to Home Depot)Close to Hwy. 580 & Hwy. 101

Please contact Brian McLeran(415)-456-7674


FOR LEASE Warehouse Space Northgate Indus-

trial Park $ 1,000./month

Available now, 1,059 sq ft warehouse space with bathroom, roll-up, per-

sonnel door & two off-street parking spaces

Unit measures 23 ½ ft W x 48 ½ ft D Full Ceiling height – Approx 14’

Height to bottom of beams Approx 13’

Roll-up door measures 10’ W x 12’ H

For more info or to see unit, call Bob Kunst Painting (415) 457-0100



Page 35


WATER WATCh Marin Municipal Water District

Report On Water Levels, Use & PrecipitationMMWD, serving Central and Southern Marin, reports on the following

supply sources, reservoir levels, precipitation and temperature for the week ending January 16, 2011

Consumption

Average million gallons/day

Average gallons/**capita/day

For Jan. 10 – Jan. 16, 2011 16.4 86.4For same week in 2010 15.9 85.7 †

Storage Acre-feet (AF)* % of capacityTotal capacity of 7 reservoirs 79,566 100%Storage as of Jan. 16, 2011 79,565 100%Storage for this date last year 45,844 58%Average for this date 61,257 77%Our current storage (79,565 AF) is 130% of the average storage (61,257 AF) for this date.

Supply SourceMMWD Reservoirs

Average million gallons/day

Russian RiverAverage

million gallons/dayFor Jan. 10 – Jan. 16, 2011 11.9 4.5For same week in 2010 6.5 9.4Rainfall At Lake Lagunitas(Rainfall Year Begins July 1)

Total To Date(inches)

Average RainfallTo Date

From July 1, 2010 – Jan. 16, 2011 31.59 25.01From July 1, 2009 – Jan. 16, 2010 18.97Temperature(at Corte Madera)

Average HighTemperature (ºF)

For Jan. 10 – Jan. 16, 2011 59.7For same week in 2010 59.5



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january 24 2011 weekly bulletin

Documents

weekly ebulletin

weekly bulletinpage

new members

members corner

bid results

county of marin permits

bilingual spanish

project bid schedule