After chairing the extremely successful and productive 2005 Summer Meeting, it is clear that 2005 will prove to be a banner year for the National Modular Housing Council (NMHC). The NMHC and its members continue to work on and press for a number of initiatives and issues with the sole purpose to enhance the business environment of the modular industry so it can continue to provide the highest quality and service to homeowners.

Without a doubt the NMHC continues to be a leading advocate in Washington, DC for the industry, and this work is never done. In addition to transportation issues, the NMHC had made technical activities a priority. With most states adopting the IRC, this is one of the many areas the NMHC is having an impact on.

Most modular manufacturers are medium-sized businesses that employ thousands of people and contribute tremendously to local and regional economies. The NMHC is monitoring the effects of laws and regulations and how they specifically impact the modular housing industry. The NMHC has made resources available to focus on these issues, and welcomes members input and participation in this process.

As part of its initial marketing campaign for the industry, the NMHC developed a new, extremely popular, brochure entitled "The Modular Advantage: Understanding Today’s Modular Home," and plans are underway to launch a new industry website that will be online later this summer. The site will contain information for homebuyers, builders, and of course NMHC members. Be sure to stay tuned to www.modularcouncil.org.

Finally, building upon last year’s success, the NMHC Housing Factory tour has been scheduled for Nov. 13-15 in South Bend Indiana. Four modular manufacturers will be featured: Crest Homes, Redman Homes, Rochester Homes, and Patriot Homes. The NMHC will also be adding a short Builder Workshop on the Sunday afternoon prior to the tour. This will provide the participating builders and other attendees a short introduction to the modular industry, and outline the manufacturing process and in-the-field duties and requirements.

I continue to be excited about the intensity and progress the National Modular Housing Council has brought to this industry, and look forward to seeing the NMHC propel the industry forward.

I welcome your thoughts and comments. I can be reached at dennisj@r-anell.com.

Dennis Jones
Chair, National Modular Housing Council
President, R-Anell Housing Group, LLC