Hello Members,

I hope everyone is enjoying the warmer weather and with it comes lots of projects as well! Since taking my seat as President, I have had the privilege to travel to Minot in December to swear in their new board at an event which was held at the gun club. Many members were in attendance; networking and enjoying the evening. Awards, games, prizes and food gave members a fun filled evening. I was also invited to the Grand Forks Installation event in January. It was an honor to swear in their new board also. A chili cook-off was the held with several to cast a vote of your favorite. Awards were presented and an introduction to curling was available to anyone who wished to get on the ice. It is truly a privilege to travel across the state to attend local associations and spend some time with their members. Thank you for the invitations!

February took us to Bismarck for our spring meetings and legislative social. NDAB and NDAR again partnered to host this event which is held when our state senators and representatives are in session. It gives us an opportunity to show our appreciation of their work and express our stance on bills being tracked which may impact our members. The following day we had a state board meeting with a couple guests making presentations. Once concluded we headed to the Capitol for a meeting with Attorney General Drew Wrigley. We also met with Department of Commerce Commissioner Chris Schilken. We are very fortunate to have access to our government officials and this is something we should never take for granted. Thank you to all who choose to serve the public. Regardless of what level you serve, it can be a thankless position, but hopefully it is for the betterment of your communities. Thank you!

Our government affairs committee has had weekly calls tracking bills and submitting testimony when needed. Lisa Feldner is our lobbyist and is a seasoned veteran. Fortunately, she also works with the REALTORS® where many bills align with our stance in regard to housing.

Vegas was our next stop for the International Builders’ Show and NAHB meetings. North Dakota had a great group representing us. With so much to see and do, it was considered a huge success by NAHB leadership. A record 1.2M sqft. of vendors showing their wares along with countless meetings and educational sessions to attend.

Thursday morning was NAHB Meeting of the Members, this was Carl Harris’s last meeting as NAHB’s Chairman. I truly appreciate his visit to Williston to swear myself in as state president last November. Buddy Hughes fills the role as Chairman of NAHB for 2025 and he will be coming to Grand Forks in November for our Annual Banquet. This is a great opportunity to meet those at national level. Reports were given by NAHB President & CEO, James Tobin  and Chief Economist, Rob Dietz, PhD. These are always informative especially with many drivers related to housing. Tariffs, interest rates and supply chains were just some of the topics discussed. Secretary of HUD, Scott Turner, was guest speaker during this meeting and his energy was incredible. Hopefully his strong leadership will be of great benefit to the housing industry.

I want to thank all you for your membership and encourage you to get involved with your local, state or national level! Our industry is very important to the economy and your businesses. I also need to thank Brittney for all she does on behalf of myself and you, our members. Please watch her emails for upcoming events. Participation is what keeps NDAB alive and advocating on your behalf for housing.

Thank you and stay safe!

Bob Horab

2025 NDAB President