ARTICLE
A recent article, claimed in its headline, without any corroboration in the article itself that homebuilders are pushing back against statewide efforts to protect homes from wildfire. This is not true and a misrepresentation of facts surrounding OHBA and HBA’s participation in wildfire recovery and prevention discussions. Although during wildfire protection bill hearings, two years ago, OHBA voiced concerns about some aspects of the legislative proposals, a comprehensive protection bill passed with the full support of OHBA and the industry. In addition, HBA has and continues to take an active role in wildfire recovery locally. As reported in a recent Pamplin’s Estacada News article, HBA’s philanthropic arm, Home Builders Foundation (HBF), contributed $10,000 toward the Clackamas County Long Term Recovery Group’s second wildfire-hardened rebuild. The non-profit was a response to the devastating 2020 Labor Day Wildfires, and has raised over $1 million while working with 17 families affected by the disaster. As members of the group’s construction committee, HBA and HBF hear survivor cases, help source needed construction items, and apprise the group on statewide rebuilding and wildfire prevention policy. National Fire Protection Association standards are examples of how the group is providing structural hardening and defensible space for survivor homes. These HBA-supported measures are critical for the long-term sustainability of homes built in the so-called wildland-urban interface. As a transitional housing and shelter solution provider, HBF saw the need to support wildfire survivors’ return to home in order to prevent houselessness. The most recent HBF check follows its previous donations including flooring and other construction materials, along with HBA-member Blue Mountain Community Management’s $10,000 spring contribution. Additionally, HBA members Milgard/MI Windows donated windows, Precision Truss and Lumber provided a discounted lumber package, and Pacific Crest Building Supply provided cabinets for multiple homes. The first two survivor home rebuilds are expected to be move-in ready by Thanksgiving. To learn more about HBA involvement in Clackamas County, contact Roseann Johnson at roseannj@hbapdx.org. To learn more about HBF’s philanthropic work throughout the region, contact Brenda Ketah at brendak@hbapdx.org.