By Phil Crone
Executive Officer, Dallas Builders Association
The past few weeks have presented an extraordinary and unprecedented period for our nation and, by extension, for the dedicated members of the Dallas Builders Association. We find ourselves collectively battling a global health crisis unlike anything witnessed in recent memory, demanding resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment from every sector. In these challenging times, the Dallas Builders Association stands at the forefront, leveraging every available resource to ensure the critical housing industry remains robust and operational.
Our primary mission during this crisis has been to safeguard the continuity of essential housing services. This involves continuous, proactive engagement with local and area jurisdictions to secure the necessary authorizations for our members to continue their vital work. Crucially, while advocating for the industry’s ability to operate, our paramount concern remains the health and safety of every individual on every jobsite. We are committed to fostering an environment where construction can proceed responsibly, adhering strictly to all recommended health guidelines to protect our workforce and the wider community.
Housing: An Indispensable Necessity for All
At the very foundation of human well-being, alongside basic needs like food and water, lies the fundamental requirement for safe, stable, and secure housing. It is more than just shelter; it is the cornerstone of individual and family stability, a haven for health, and a critical component of community resilience. Recognizing this profound importance, the Dallas Builders Association unequivocally asserts that all aspects of housing infrastructure – including permitting, essential inspections, active construction, and the seamless transfer of ownership – are integral parts of our essential infrastructure. To disrupt these vital processes would have far-reaching and detrimental consequences for our communities and economy.
Ensuring Operational Continuity with Local Jurisdictions
Our team is in constant communication with various area jurisdictions across the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. These dialogues are focused on understanding and communicating the evolving changes in their permitting and inspection operations. We aim to bridge the gap between jurisdictional requirements and our members’ operational needs, ensuring that essential projects can move forward with minimal disruption while upholding the highest standards of safety and compliance. We have formally conveyed our position and commitment to these authorities, advocating strongly for the continued classification of housing construction as an essential service. For transparency and information, we previously sent a comprehensive letter outlining our recommendations and the critical importance of our industry. This collaborative approach is vital to navigate the complexities of the current environment successfully.
Prioritizing Jobsite Safety and Social Distancing
In line with public health directives, local jurisdictions, like all responsible entities, are diligently implementing social distancing practices and enforcing strict limits on public gatherings. We cannot stress enough the absolute necessity for every member, every contractor, and every worker to adopt and rigorously apply these same principles within their workplaces and on all job sites. This commitment to limiting gatherings to 10 or fewer people and maintaining appropriate physical distance will undoubtedly introduce new operational dynamics and require adjustments to established routines. However, these changes are not merely recommendations; they are critical measures that will enable us to continue working safely and responsibly. Our ability to maintain operations hinges on the collective discipline and adherence to these guidelines. Failing to prioritize these safety protocols could jeopardize the essential status of our industry, leading to significant setbacks for everyone involved. Your diligence in implementing these measures is paramount to our collective success and the well-being of our community.
Comprehensive COVID-19 Resources for the Building Community
In our sustained effort to provide timely and actionable information, the Dallas Builders Association has established a dedicated COVID-19 response website. This platform serves as your central hub for all critical updates, guidelines, and resources related to navigating the ongoing health crisis within the housing industry. We encourage all members and stakeholders to frequently visit this invaluable resource to stay informed and equipped.
Collaborative Information Sharing via Google Document
Within our comprehensive COVID-19 response website, we host a dynamic Google Document designed for real-time updates and collaborative information sharing. This interactive document allows members to view the very latest information regarding regulatory changes, best practices, and industry news. Furthermore, we invite you to contribute valuable insights and supplement the information we have provided. Should you choose to add comments or new data, please ensure that you meticulously cite the source of your information. This commitment to verifiable sources maintains the integrity and reliability of the shared knowledge base, making it a truly invaluable resource for our entire community.
Connecting Jurisdictions with Private Sector Expertise
Our COVID-19 website also features a meticulously curated list of Dallas Builders Association members who possess specialized expertise that may be crucial for local jurisdictions during this challenging period. As public resources may be stretched thin, many jurisdictions might need to seek assistance from the private sector for essential services such as expedited permitting processes, comprehensive inspections, expert engineering consultations, efficient plan reviews, and other vital administrative and technical services. This directory serves as a vital bridge, connecting public agencies with our skilled members who are ready and able to offer their support. We invite members who believe they can offer such services to provide additional information via the comments section of the aforementioned document or by emailing us directly at [email protected]. Your willingness to assist strengthens our collective response and reinforces the essential role of the building community.
Supporting Our Frontline Workers: The Respirator Drive
Finally, in a testament to our commitment to worker safety and community support, we are in the early stages of organizing a vital respirator drive. This crucial initiative is being undertaken in partnership with our esteemed colleagues at the Greater Fort Worth Builders Association, demonstrating a united regional effort to protect construction professionals. Details regarding collection points, types of respirators needed, and distribution plans will be disseminated through multiple channels: via direct email communications, updates on our social media pages, and comprehensive information posted on our dedicated COVID-19 website. We kindly request that you do not bring any materials to the Dallas Builders Association offices at this time, as specific drop-off locations will be announced to ensure logistical efficiency and compliance with health guidelines.
Your Essential Role: Key Actions for Dallas Builders Association Members
To navigate this unprecedented period effectively and maintain the viability of our essential industry, your active cooperation and adherence to critical guidelines are indispensable. Here is a clear summary of the actions we collectively need from you:
- Strictly Adhere to Safety Protocols: Implement and rigorously enforce a maximum of 10 individuals or less at all times within your workplace and on job sites. This is not merely a suggestion but a critical directive to mitigate health risks. Furthermore, a steadfast commitment to all social distancing guidelines, including maintaining a minimum of six feet between individuals, regular hand washing, and enhanced sanitation of shared surfaces, is absolutely mandatory. Your proactive efforts in this area are fundamental to ensuring the safety of your teams and the sustained operation of our industry.
- Trust in Our Advocacy: Rest assured that the Dallas Builders Association is working tirelessly and diligently around the clock with area jurisdictions. Our consistent engagement is focused on advocating for the continued classification of the housing industry as essential, ensuring that our members can remain in business and continue their vital contributions to the economy and community. Your continued support strengthens our collective voice.
- Engage with Our Information Hub: Actively view and contribute to the aforementioned collaborative Google Document accessible through our COVID-19 website. Utilize the comments feature (typically located in the upper right corner of the document) to share critical updates, best practices, or specific challenges you are encountering. Alternatively, you can always reach out to us directly with your insights and questions via email at [email protected]. Your input is invaluable in shaping our response and resource provision.
- Stay Informed on the Respirator Drive: Keep a close watch on our communications channels – email, social media, and our COVID-19 website – for forthcoming details regarding the organized respirator drive. Your participation in this initiative, whether through donation or awareness, will directly support the safety of our frontline construction workers.
- Access All Latest Information: Bookmark and frequently visit our dedicated COVID-19 website. This platform is continuously updated with the most current guidance, official announcements, and industry-specific resources to help you navigate these dynamic times.
To further enhance our communication and provide direct engagement, we will be hosting a live video update on our official Facebook page today, March 20, at 3 p.m. This interactive session will provide an opportunity for us to share the latest developments, offer practical advice, and most importantly, field any additional questions or concerns you may have in real-time. We strongly encourage your participation to foster a shared understanding and collaborative spirit.
As a reminder, in adherence to public health recommendations and for the safety of our members and staff, all Dallas Builders Association events and in-person meetings have been regretfully postponed or canceled until April 30. While our physical office operations will transition to limited staffing starting next week, our commitment to serving you remains unwavering. A comprehensive and continually updated list of all impacted meetings, events, and changes to office operations is readily available on our dedicated COVID-19 website.
We extend our deepest hopes that you, your families, and your teams remain safe, healthy, and vigilant throughout this uniquely challenging period. Your unwavering support as Dallas Builders Association members is more crucial now than ever before. By collectively projecting a strong, unified voice, we can effectively advocate for and protect the vital housing industry we all represent. We firmly believe that through collaboration, adherence to safety, and shared resilience, we will navigate these difficult waters and emerge stronger, together. Your dedication makes a profound difference.
Phil Crone serves as the executive officer of the Dallas Builders Association, the leading trade association and comprehensive network for builders and associated professionals in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area. Dedicated to advocating for the housing industry and fostering professional excellence, the DBA is a cornerstone of the regional construction landscape. Discover more about the invaluable work and member benefits offered by the Dallas Builders Association by visiting their official website at dallasbuilders.com.