Latest news with #TREC
Time Business News
29-05-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
Picking the best online Texas real estate course for licensing success
It's not just a place, Texas is a way of being. Texas 'the ultimate host' known for its rich cultural history, metropolitan attitude, and sprawling, wide-open spaces, Texas fuses a southern welcome with a progressive outlook. From Austin's tech-savvy scene to Dallas's metropolitan vibe and Houston's industrial pulse, it's a place, he said, where legacy and innovation intersect daily. An online Texas real estate course is perfect for those who want to break into the property business, one of the most profitable markets in the United States. Why Texans can afford it all while driving affordability for families, investors, and professionals across the country is because no state income tax also contributes to making Texas one of the best housing markets this spring. The state excels in real estate diversity, from high-rise apartments in the city to spacious, traditional ranch homes in the suburbs. A career in the Texas real estate industry can be very rewarding in the long run, and it begins by getting a real estate license. This includes attending a state-approved education program that meets licensure requirements. RealEstateU provides an online Texas real estate course that will prepare aspiring agents with the knowledge and tools to succeed. OPIM is designed to be flexible for students who have a full-time job, family, or other responsibilities. Using interactive and intuitive technology, the course enhances, promotes, and fosters a comprehensive understanding of the topics regulated by TREC, the body responsible for governing real estate licensure in the state of Texas. Read more about how an online Texas real estate course can help you on the path to a fulfilling real estate career. Almost 100 other instructors have taught this class, but what makes this course special is the mix of real talent with a cool, effortlessly jovial on-screen digital dynamism. The program encompasses all six of the mandatory 30-hour qualifying education courses in Texas, including real estate principles, law of agency, contracts, and real estate finance. Each module is designed to enable students to not just pass the licensing exam but to apply what they learn in actual real estate transactions. With quizzes, flashcards, and practice exams, the format is interactive. Reinforces the most important topics and concepts with the Actual CTS Practice Exam tool. These are the perfect tools to strengthen concepts and build the confidence needed to take the state exam. Through these engaging methods, the online Texas real estate course can provide an enhanced learning experience that ensures that candidates will retain and understand the material. The prep is available on computers, tablets, and smartphones. Study from anywhere at home, office, or even on the road. Since the program is self-paced, learners can start anytime they wish and study according to their schedule. Whether candidates give up their weekends or carve out a few hours each day, the correspondence course is designed for students to be able to work without feeling like they have a deadline looming. All students have opportunities for technical support and academic support when they need it. The TREC-approved curriculum consists of the following: - Six 30-hour qualifying courses in key areas of real estate knowledge – Real test-taking practice with our exam preparation materials, questions and answers, results, and test feedback. - Advanced training opportunities to assist with license renewal This combination of academic content and practical applications ensures certain the students receive the foundation of knowledge and the practical readiness to succeed in a career in real estate. As with any technology-driven industry, the online Texas real estate course is continuously updated to keep applicants up-to-date in the current Real Estate realm. This is another huge advantage of the program. In addition to typical classroom costs, online classes eliminate travel costs, textbooks, and fixed scheduling problems. Many digital course materials are provided at no additional cost, ensuring the price is kept to a minimum without sacrificing educational quality. This is a complete course; it includes career training as well. These cover lessons in marketing strategies, professional communication, and client branding as well. New agents are exposed to best practices that can help them set themselves apart in Texas's notoriously cutthroat property market. It also serves to create a community, joining people with other learners, as well as with professionals in the field. This network can be used to help find a mentor and relate to others, as well as for getting insights that go beyond what is covered by the syllabus. For those who want to create a career that will be around for a very long time and become self-reliant, having access to a support team through an online Texas real estate course is a huge advantage for the candidates For those looking for a career in real estate, especially for those hoping to earn a real estate license in Texas, a quality, state-approved online Texas real estate course can be a great way to learn the basics of real estate. They can meet the legal licensing requirements and prepare themselves for the Texas real estate exam. These programs are created to meet the demands of today's learners and to meet or exceed all regulatory standards. With a clear path to learn, hands-on experience, and resources for support, anyone can become a confident licensee and flourish in the rich Texas real estate environment. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Time Business News
14-05-2025
- Business
- Time Business News
Continuing Education for Home Inspectors in Texas
The home inspection industry in Texas is thriving, fueled by a robust real estate market and high demand for quality inspections. With business booming, inspectors often find their phones ringing '50 to 100 times a day' as they rush to meet tight option-period deadlines. However, whether you're just becoming a home inspector in Texas or you're a seasoned pro, earning a license is only the beginning. Ongoing continuing education is essential for long-term success. It keeps inspectors sharp, knowledgeable, and adaptable in a field where standards and client expectations continually rise. By regularly updating their skills, Texas home inspectors can ensure they perform thorough, competent inspections on every property, protecting both their clients and their careers. Housing in Texas isn't static – building practices, technologies, and regulations are constantly changing. Inspectors must keep pace with updates to Texas building codes and the Texas Real Estate Commission (TREC) Standards of Practice. For example, in 2021 TREC adopted changes that included a new 8-hour Inspector Legal & Ethics and SOP Review course requirement for license renewal. This illustrates how quickly rules can evolve. Additionally, new construction techniques and materials are emerging, from advanced foundation designs to energy-efficient systems. Homes themselves are getting 'smarter,' integrating IoT devices and complex appliances. Inspectors today might encounter solar panel arrays, smart thermostats, or new HVAC technologies that barely existed a decade ago. Keeping up with these advancements through continuing education is crucial. It ensures that as an inspector, you're familiar with modern building practices and can accurately assess cutting-edge home systems. Technology is also reshaping how inspections are done. Drones now assist with roof inspections, and infrared thermography can reveal hidden issues like leaks or insulation gaps. Embracing these tools requires training – many inspectors take courses on drone operation or thermal imaging to broaden their services. Overall, the landscape of home inspection is more dynamic than ever, and those willing to learn continuously will navigate these changes with confidence. Continuing education offers numerous benefits that directly enhance an inspector's effectiveness and reputation: Expanded Knowledge & Skills: The most obvious benefit is becoming a better inspector. Smart inspectors who are serious about their business stay on top of their game by continually learning. With constant innovations in construction and building materials, there's always something new to master. Through courses and training, you can learn to identify issues you might have missed before, whether it's a subtle foundation crack or the latest safety hazard. This results in more thorough inspections and detailed reports. The most obvious benefit is becoming a better inspector. Smart inspectors who are serious about their business stay on top of their game by continually learning. With constant innovations in construction and building materials, there's always something new to master. Through courses and training, you can learn to identify issues you might have missed before, whether it's a subtle foundation crack or the latest safety hazard. This results in more thorough inspections and detailed reports. Staying Updated on Codes & Standards: Regular education keeps you up-to-date with new building codes, regulations, and Standards of Practice. Texas authorities frequently update standards to improve quality and safety. By taking required courses (like the TREC 8-hour SOP/Legal Updates) and elective topics, inspectors ensure they're inspecting to current standards. This means no unwelcome surprises if regulations change – you'll already be in compliance and incorporating any new inspection requirements into your routine. Regular education keeps you up-to-date with new building codes, regulations, and Standards of Practice. Texas authorities frequently update standards to improve quality and safety. By taking required courses (like the TREC 8-hour SOP/Legal Updates) and elective topics, inspectors ensure they're inspecting to current standards. This means no unwelcome surprises if regulations change – you'll already be in compliance and incorporating any new inspection requirements into your routine. Enhanced Credibility and Trust: Staying educated enhances credibility with clients and agents. Home buyers trust inspectors with advanced knowledge or extra certifications. Current inspectors are more credible to consumers. Displaying completion certificates online or in marketing materials showcases expertise, impressing clients and reassuring agents. A history of continuing education can set you apart from competitors, becoming a unique selling point over time. Staying educated enhances credibility with clients and agents. Home buyers trust inspectors with advanced knowledge or extra certifications. Current inspectors are more credible to consumers. Displaying completion certificates online or in marketing materials showcases expertise, impressing clients and reassuring agents. A history of continuing education can set you apart from competitors, becoming a unique selling point over time. Legal Protection: Education can even provide a layer of liability protection. If ever faced with a dispute or lawsuit, being able to demonstrate that you've completed extensive training can strengthen your defense. Courts have noted that an inspector's ongoing training and credentials bolster their standing as experts. Conversely, an inspector who fails to stay current could be seen as negligent. By keeping your knowledge fresh, you not only do a better job – you also have documentation to prove your commitment to excellence if your work is ever scrutinized. In summary, continuing education enhances an inspector's technical skills, keeps them aligned with best practices, and builds professional trust. It's an investment that pays off in higher-quality inspections and a stronger reputation. Beyond the minimum required courses, Texas home inspectors can pursue advanced certifications and specialized training to elevate their expertise. Professional associations like InterNACHI and the Texas Professional Real Estate Inspectors Association (TPREIA) offer a wealth of resources. For instance, InterNACHI members get unlimited access to free online training and specialized courses – covering everything from infrared thermography to energy audits and more . Earning the InterNACHI Certified Professional Inspector (CPI) designation is a popular path that signals a high level of proficiency and a commitment to ethics and standards. Similarly, the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) offers certifications that are well-regarded in the industry. Inspectors can also seek additional licenses or certifications in related fields to expand their services. Common examples include: Wood-Destroying Insect (WDI) Inspections: Termites and other pests are a big concern in Texas' warm climate. Getting licensed or certified to perform WDI inspections enables a home inspector to provide official termite inspection reports. This often involves separate training through the Texas Department of Agriculture or approved courses, but it adds a valuable service for clients. Given how silently termites can wreak havoc on a home's structure, having this expertise is a major value-add. Termites and other pests are a big concern in Texas' warm climate. Getting licensed or certified to perform WDI inspections enables a home inspector to provide official termite inspection reports. This often involves separate training through the Texas Department of Agriculture or approved courses, but it adds a valuable service for clients. Given how silently termites can wreak havoc on a home's structure, having this expertise is a major value-add. Mold Assessment and Indoor Air Quality: Texas' humidity and occasional flooding can lead to mold issues. Some inspectors choose to become licensed Mold Assessment Technicians or Consultants (a separate credential) or take mold inspection courses. This knowledge helps identify potential mold risks during general inspections and advise if specialized testing is needed. Texas' humidity and occasional flooding can lead to mold issues. Some inspectors choose to become licensed Mold Assessment Technicians or Consultants (a separate credential) or take mold inspection courses. This knowledge helps identify potential mold risks during general inspections and advise if specialized testing is needed. Radon Measurement Certification: While radon is often associated with other regions, some Texas inspectors still get certified in radon testing. Courses (like those offered by NRPP or InterNACHI) train you in proper testing protocols. It's an extra service you can offer, and though Texas isn't a high-radon state overall, certain areas or clients may have concerns, especially with more people relocating from out-of-state and asking about it. While radon is often associated with other regions, some Texas inspectors still get certified in radon testing. Courses (like those offered by NRPP or InterNACHI) train you in proper testing protocols. It's an extra service you can offer, and though Texas isn't a high-radon state overall, certain areas or clients may have concerns, especially with more people relocating from out-of-state and asking about it. Pool & Spa Inspections: Given the abundance of swimming pools in Texas, training in pool and spa inspections is valuable. Specialized courses teach inspectors to evaluate pool plumbing, electrical, safety enclosures, and surface conditions. This is a great niche skill for Texas inspectors, since many homebuyers appreciate an inspector who can thoroughly check the backyard oasis. Given the abundance of swimming pools in Texas, training in pool and spa inspections is valuable. Specialized courses teach inspectors to evaluate pool plumbing, electrical, safety enclosures, and surface conditions. This is a great niche skill for Texas inspectors, since many homebuyers appreciate an inspector who can thoroughly check the backyard oasis. Commercial Property Inspections: To further grow your career, you might pursue commercial inspection training (such as courses offered by CCPIA or other organizations). These cover larger building systems and commercial code knowledge, preparing you to inspect multifamily residences, retail spaces, or office buildings. Such training can significantly expand your potential client base beyond just residential. In fact, some Texas continuing education providers offer intro to commercial inspection courses for CE credit (with TREC credit limits on hours per subject). By obtaining advanced certifications, inspectors signal their dedication to mastery of the profession. Each additional credential – be it a respected association certification or a state specialty license – can boost your career. Not only do these open up new revenue opportunities (through expanded services), but they also enhance your credibility. Clients often feel more confident hiring an inspector who is, say, Infrared Certified or a Certified Pool Inspector, because it shows you've gone the extra mile in training. The key is to choose programs that align with your business goals and the needs of your market. Continuing education is crucial for business success, especially in marketing and branding. Specialized skills and certifications, like energy efficiency or green building inspections, set you apart from competitors and attract eco-conscious clients. Becoming an expert in niche areas such as thermal imaging or FHA 203k consulting can establish you as the go-to professional for those in professional development impresses agents and brokerages, who prefer knowledgeable inspectors. By offering educational sessions to real estate offices, inspectors position themselves as authorities and maintain strong referral pipelines. Some inspectors in Texas teach classes for Realtors, indirectly promoting their inspection evolving client expectations is essential, especially with tech-savvy homebuyers. Updated knowledge on topics like new HVAC standards or smart home technology can leave a positive impression and lead to satisfied clients, positive reviews, and referrals. Diversifying services through continuing education can increase revenue by offering ancillary services (termite inspections, pool inspections, thermal scans) for extra fees. Packaging services together, such as a general home inspection plus WDI and sprinkler system inspections, boosts income per client and provides comprehensive learning bolsters your business reputation, positioning you as an industry leader. Evolving into a consultant, trainer, or mentor can create additional income streams or career paths. In conclusion, continuing education drives business growth by enhancing competitiveness, expanding services, and improving client satisfaction. Each state has its own rules and common issues, and Texas is no exception. The Texas Real Estate Commission requires licensed home inspectors to complete 32 hours of continuing education every two years, including an 8-hour mandatory Legal, Ethics, and Standards of Practice course. Importantly, TREC limits credit to no more than 16 hours in a single topic area per renewal period. This rule ensures that inspectors get a well-rounded education covering multiple facets of home inspection, rather than, say, doing 32 hours on just one specialty. So when planning your CE, you'll need a mix of courses (structural, HVAC, plumbing, etc.) to fulfill the requirements. What topics are especially relevant in Texas? Foundation issues are a big one. Texas's soil conditions (like the clay-rich soil in North Texas) cause many homes to experience foundation movement. In fact, Texas leads the nation in foundation problems – it's '#1 in foundation failures,' and it's not uncommon to find cracked foundations, walls, or brick in homes here . Given this reality, courses on structural foundations, soil movement, and proper foundation inspection techniques are extremely valuable. Inspectors who stay educated on the latest foundation repair methods or inspection techniques (like using zip levels or measuring differential elevations) will be better prepared to spot issues and explain them to clients. As one Texas inspector quipped, there are two types of homeowners in North Texas: those with foundation issues and those who will have foundation issues. Knowledge is key to evaluating these properly. Another Texas-specific focus is climate-related inspections. The state's climate is diverse – from the humid Gulf Coast, which can breed mold and rust, to the tornado-prone Panhandle, to the scorching summers statewide that put stress on HVAC systems. Inspectors often take CE courses on topics like HVAC efficiency and sizing (important in 100°F summers), roofing materials and hail damage (a common issue in storm-prone areas), or even disaster preparedness inspections (hurricane straps, flood zone considerations, etc.). For example, coastal inspectors may pursue training on wind mitigation inspections or fortified roof systems, given the hurricane risks. In Central Texas, where flash floods can occur, knowledge about proper grading and drainage is critical. By focusing on such regional concerns in continuing education, you ensure you're adept at catching issues that Texas homes frequently face. Texas inspectors should also note any state-mandated courses versus electives. Currently, aside from the 8-hour SOP/Ethics course, most other CE topics are electives that you can choose based on interest or market need. However, staying aware of TREC announcements is wise – occasionally new requirements are introduced. (For instance, if significant legislative changes affecting inspections occur, TREC could require a short course on it in the future.) As of now, fulfilling the 32-hour requirement with a variety of TREC-approved courses – whether online or in-person – will keep your license in good standing and your knowledge fresh. Industry trends in Texas also influence what training you might seek. For example, with the ongoing growth in cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston, many older homes are being renovated or expanded. Inspecting remodeled homes can be tricky, so courses on assessing flips or additions (and understanding permitting) can be useful. Also, Texas has a strong new construction market; learning about phased new-construction inspections or builder warranty inspections can open up new business opportunities. Texas continues to update energy codes for new homes, so an inspector who's educated on the latest insulation or HVAC requirements can provide extra value to buyers of new homes by pointing out where builders met or missed those standards. In short, Texas's environment and regulations shape its continuing education priorities. Focus on structural issues (like foundations), climatic impacts (heat, storms, pests), and stay compliant with TREC's CE rules. This Texas-tailored knowledge will help you inspect more confidently and accurately across the Lone Star State. With so many continuing education options available, how should a home inspector in Texas decide which courses to take or which programs to trust? Here are some key factors and tips for selecting quality CE: Relevance to Your Work: Start by identifying knowledge gaps or services you want to offer. If you often encounter something on inspections that you're less confident about (say, evaluating older electrical systems or septic tanks), seek out a course on that topic. Likewise, if you want to add a new service (like thermal imaging or pool inspections), find training specific to it. The best courses address real-world needs you face in Texas homes, so you can immediately apply what you learn. Start by identifying knowledge gaps or services you want to offer. If you often encounter something on inspections that you're less confident about (say, evaluating older electrical systems or septic tanks), seek out a course on that topic. Likewise, if you want to add a new service (like thermal imaging or pool inspections), find training specific to it. The best courses address real-world needs you face in Texas homes, so you can immediately apply what you learn. TREC Approval: Always ensure the course is approved by TREC for inspector CE credit (if you need it to count toward your 32 hours). TREC provides lists of approved CE courses. Most reputable providers will state a TREC approval number. This matters not just for credit, but also as a sign that the content meets state standards. That said, you might occasionally take a non-TREC-approved class purely for personal enrichment (like a niche topic webinar). Those can be valuable too, but prioritize your required credits first. Always ensure the course is approved by TREC for inspector CE credit (if you need it to count toward your 32 hours). TREC provides lists of approved CE courses. Most reputable providers will state a TREC approval number. This matters not just for credit, but also as a sign that the content meets state standards. That said, you might occasionally take a non-TREC-approved class purely for personal enrichment (like a niche topic webinar). Those can be valuable too, but prioritize your required credits first. Provider Reputation: Texas has many education providers – from national ones like InterNACHI, ASHI, and ATI Training, to local schools like Champions School of Real Estate or community colleges. Research the provider: How long have they been offering inspector education? Are the instructors experienced inspectors themselves? Check reviews or ask colleagues for recommendations. An engaging instructor who knows Texas-specific issues can make a huge difference in what you get out of a class. You might also consider joining inspector associations (like TPREIA or TAREI) which often host seminars and courses; these groups are great for networking and usually bring in high-quality trainers. Texas has many education providers – from national ones like InterNACHI, ASHI, and ATI Training, to local schools like Champions School of Real Estate or community colleges. Research the provider: How long have they been offering inspector education? Are the instructors experienced inspectors themselves? Check reviews or ask colleagues for recommendations. An engaging instructor who knows Texas-specific issues can make a huge difference in what you get out of a class. You might also consider joining inspector associations (like TPREIA or TAREI) which often host seminars and courses; these groups are great for networking and usually bring in high-quality trainers. Format – Online vs In-Person: Decide what learning format suits you. Online courses are very convenient – you can complete them at your own pace, anytime. Many inspectors love the flexibility of online CE, especially when balancing a busy inspection schedule. InterNACHI, for example, offers a library of free online courses approved for Texas CE that you can do from home Online classes often include videos, quizzes, and downloadable material. On the other hand, in-person classes or live webinars can be extremely valuable for interactive learning. In-person training, such as workshops or hands-on demonstrations, lets you ask questions on the spot and often includes group discussions or field exercises. Some complex topics (like using certain tools or doing mock inspections on a house) are arguably learned best in person. Texas has in-person CE options through conferences (like the annual Texas Inspectors convention) or schools that offer weekend seminars. You might choose a blend: for instance, knock out general topics online, but attend an in-person class for a specialty like infrared camera use, where seeing it in action helps. Also, note that due to the size of Texas, regional offerings vary – major cities have more in-person options, whereas if you're in a rural area, online might be your primary mode. Decide what learning format suits you. Online courses are very convenient – you can complete them at your own pace, anytime. Many inspectors love the flexibility of online CE, especially when balancing a busy inspection schedule. InterNACHI, for example, offers a library of free online courses approved for Texas CE that you can do from home Online classes often include videos, quizzes, and downloadable material. On the other hand, in-person classes or live webinars can be extremely valuable for interactive learning. Cost and Value: Consider the cost, but weigh it against the value you're getting. Some courses are inexpensive or even free (InterNACHI's courses are free for members, for example, and some local chapters might offer free workshops). Others, like advanced certifications, can be a few hundred dollars. Investing in your education is investing in your business, so don't hesitate to spend on a high-quality course that will pay off in better inspections or new income streams. Still, budget accordingly and take advantage of any discounts (for example, association members often get discounts on partner courses). Consider the cost, but weigh it against the value you're getting. Some courses are inexpensive or even free (InterNACHI's courses are free for members, for example, and some local chapters might offer free workshops). Others, like advanced certifications, can be a few hundred dollars. Investing in your education is investing in your business, so don't hesitate to spend on a high-quality course that will pay off in better inspections or new income streams. Still, budget accordingly and take advantage of any discounts (for example, association members often get discounts on partner courses). Depth and Difficulty: Look at the course length and outline. A 4-hour course on HVAC will likely be an overview, whereas a 16-hour course will delve much deeper. Both have their place. If you want a broad refresher, short courses or conference sessions are great. If you need a deep dive (say you really want to master a new skill), opt for a longer program or multi-part series. Some providers offer multi-module programs (like a series of 8 one-hour modules) which can be easier to digest gradually. Ensure the course difficulty matches your experience level too – advanced courses might assume you already know the basics. Look at the course length and outline. A 4-hour course on HVAC will likely be an overview, whereas a 16-hour course will delve much deeper. Both have their place. If you want a broad refresher, short courses or conference sessions are great. If you need a deep dive (say you really want to master a new skill), opt for a longer program or multi-part series. Some providers offer multi-module programs (like a series of 8 one-hour modules) which can be easier to digest gradually. Ensure the course difficulty matches your experience level too – advanced courses might assume you already know the basics. Engagement and Practical Focus: The best courses for inspectors are those with plenty of real-life examples: photos from actual inspections, case studies, and practical tips. Before enrolling, see if the course description mentions what you'll do (e.g., 'includes case studies of common defects' or 'hands-on use of inspection tools' etc.). Practical knowledge is far more useful than theory alone in this industry. Also, courses that keep you engaged (through interactive quizzes, exercises, or live Q&A) will help you retain information better. Finally, don't forget the networking aspect. Sometimes the connections you make in a class can be as valuable as the content. In live courses, you'll meet fellow inspectors – sharing experiences and solutions. Even online, if there are forums or instructor email support, take advantage of that. Continuing education is not just about getting a certificate; it's about continuously integrating into the professional community and learning from each other. In Texas's fast-paced real estate market, ongoing education is essential for thriving home inspectors. Regulations, building techniques, and client expectations will keep evolving, making it crucial for inspectors to embrace lifelong learning. Continuing education fuels professional growth, confidence, and credibility, ensuring inspectors stay ahead and recognize issues in education protects licenses, reduces liabilities, and enhances service quality for clients, showing dedication to being the best inspector. Creating a yearly learning plan with goals for new topics or skill improvements is recommended. Encouraging fellow inspectors to do the same and sharing insights fosters a culture of continuous improvement conclusion, continuing education is key to long-term success in the Texas home inspection industry. Embrace it fully, stay curious, informed, and committed to honing your craft. Your future self and clients will benefit from your reputable, resilient career inspecting Texas homes effectively for years to come. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Scoop
24-04-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Cash Injection To Protect Whirinaki From Floods: ‘Too Important To Fail'
Article – Linda Hall – Local Democracy Reporter The plan will protect Pan Pac Forest Products mill at Whirinaki, and see 46 homes which were inundated by water as Cyclone Gabrielle hit on February 14, 2023, move from Category 2C to Category 1. Funding has been granted for a new plan to protect a huge Hawke's Bay business from flooding and move the community's homes around it out of post-cyclone limbo. The plan will protect Pan Pac Forest Products' mill at Whirinaki, and see 46 homes which were inundated by water as Cyclone Gabrielle hit on February 14, 2023, move from Category 2C to Category 1. Whirinaki residents have fought long and hard for their community. More than a year ago one couple even installed a seat outside their home with two skeletons sitting on it and a sign that read 'waiting on decisions'. HBRC said in January its initial flood resilience project, which included raising and strengthening stopbanks and raising a section of State Highway 2, and upgrading its culverts, was facing a large funding shortfall. The project was needed to move the community's post-cyclone Category 2C properties into Category 1 and was expected to be funded through Transport Rebuild East Coast (TREC). But a significant reduction to TREC's budget meant the funding was no longer available for it, leaving HBRC to again petition the Government for funding. Now central Government has agreed to redirect an additional $9 million and Regional Council has committed a further $3 million, after a change of design. It will allow the on-hold project to go ahead. HBRC chair Hinewai Ormsby said it marked a significant milestone for the Whirinaki community and residents who had faced considerable uncertainty. 'The funding commitments from our council and Central Government demonstrate our shared belief in the project's benefits for impacted property owners. Most importantly, it will help them move forward with their lives,' Ormsby said. Pan Pac Forest Products general manager Tony Clifford said he was delighted, and it would provide confidence that its site is durable. 'I couldn't ask our employees to go through the aftermath of a cyclone again,' Clifford said. A spokesperson for HBRC said over the past six months, it explored options to reduce the project's costs, which escalated to more than $34 million from the original $11 million budget, creating a shortfall. 'The original stopbank alignment that followed the Whirinaki Drain required a new culvert to be built under the State Highway and significant road raising to tie the road into the stopbanks, resulting in the cost blowout. 'With a refined design, the cost had been reduced to about $23 million, with the new funding bridging the gap from the original budget.' The spokesperson said HBRC and its design team were working through the design details of the proposed new alignment. 'The updated alignment still includes raising State Highway 2 and stopbanks from the highway to the coast to provide flood mitigation to Category 2C areas. 'The raising of SH2 is now more modest due to the revised location being at a higher elevation,' the spokesperson said. 'The works still include upgrades to the existing stopbank around Pan Pac Forest Products to protect the industrial area, but due to the new alignment being further north it removes the need to upgrade the Whirinaki Drain culvert under SH2. 'As the design progresses and we have greater certainty on the detail of the stopbank design, including its height and width, further information will be made public once we have engaged with affected landowners and local residents.' HBRC councillor Martin Williams said the project was 'mission critical', not just for the Whirinaki communities it would better protect, but for the Hawke's Bay economy. 'The Pan Pac Pulpmill, one of the region's biggest employers, was severely impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle. With rising electricity and insurance costs and a highly volatile export market, I doubt the mill would survive another cyclone without this stopbank project. Simply put, this project is in the 'too important to fail' category.' Clifford said they were right behind the council plan. 'It's hard to say what any future weather event would look like but if we haven't done our utmost to prepare and protect any investor would be saying what's the point,' he said. He said Pan Pac was back running at 95% after the rebuild. 'There are a few teething problems but that's expected with new plants. 'We are concerned about the winter, with the cost of electricity but hopefully the recent rain around the country will help ease that.' He said along with the stopbank, the management of the river mouth was a critical part of future flood protection. 'We need both and HBRC has taken steps in the right direction by installing a river level monitor and cameras. 'It means all that work that went into the rebuild will not be wasted. 'We will be doing whatever we can to support council including supplying fill from our quarries for use on the stopbanks.' LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
Scoop
24-04-2025
- Business
- Scoop
Cash Injection To Protect Whirinaki From Floods: ‘Too Important To Fail'
Funding has been granted for a new plan to protect a huge Hawke's Bay business from flooding and move the community's homes around it out of post-cyclone limbo. The plan will protect Pan Pac Forest Products' mill at Whirinaki, and see 46 homes which were inundated by water as Cyclone Gabrielle hit on February 14, 2023, move from Category 2C to Category 1. Whirinaki residents have fought long and hard for their community. More than a year ago one couple even installed a seat outside their home with two skeletons sitting on it and a sign that read 'waiting on decisions'. HBRC said in January its initial flood resilience project, which included raising and strengthening stopbanks and raising a section of State Highway 2, and upgrading its culverts, was facing a large funding shortfall. The project was needed to move the community's post-cyclone Category 2C properties into Category 1 and was expected to be funded through Transport Rebuild East Coast (TREC). But a significant reduction to TREC's budget meant the funding was no longer available for it, leaving HBRC to again petition the Government for funding. Now central Government has agreed to redirect an additional $9 million and Regional Council has committed a further $3 million, after a change of design. It will allow the on-hold project to go ahead. HBRC chair Hinewai Ormsby said it marked a significant milestone for the Whirinaki community and residents who had faced considerable uncertainty. 'The funding commitments from our council and Central Government demonstrate our shared belief in the project's benefits for impacted property owners. Most importantly, it will help them move forward with their lives,' Ormsby said. Pan Pac Forest Products general manager Tony Clifford said he was delighted, and it would provide confidence that its site is durable. 'I couldn't ask our employees to go through the aftermath of a cyclone again,' Clifford said. A spokesperson for HBRC said over the past six months, it explored options to reduce the project's costs, which escalated to more than $34 million from the original $11 million budget, creating a shortfall. 'The original stopbank alignment that followed the Whirinaki Drain required a new culvert to be built under the State Highway and significant road raising to tie the road into the stopbanks, resulting in the cost blowout. 'With a refined design, the cost had been reduced to about $23 million, with the new funding bridging the gap from the original budget.' The spokesperson said HBRC and its design team were working through the design details of the proposed new alignment. 'The updated alignment still includes raising State Highway 2 and stopbanks from the highway to the coast to provide flood mitigation to Category 2C areas. 'The raising of SH2 is now more modest due to the revised location being at a higher elevation,' the spokesperson said. 'The works still include upgrades to the existing stopbank around Pan Pac Forest Products to protect the industrial area, but due to the new alignment being further north it removes the need to upgrade the Whirinaki Drain culvert under SH2. 'As the design progresses and we have greater certainty on the detail of the stopbank design, including its height and width, further information will be made public once we have engaged with affected landowners and local residents.' HBRC councillor Martin Williams said the project was 'mission critical', not just for the Whirinaki communities it would better protect, but for the Hawke's Bay economy. 'The Pan Pac Pulpmill, one of the region's biggest employers, was severely impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle. With rising electricity and insurance costs and a highly volatile export market, I doubt the mill would survive another cyclone without this stopbank project. Simply put, this project is in the 'too important to fail' category.' Clifford said they were right behind the council plan. 'It's hard to say what any future weather event would look like but if we haven't done our utmost to prepare and protect any investor would be saying what's the point,' he said. He said Pan Pac was back running at 95% after the rebuild. 'There are a few teething problems but that's expected with new plants. 'We are concerned about the winter, with the cost of electricity but hopefully the recent rain around the country will help ease that.' He said along with the stopbank, the management of the river mouth was a critical part of future flood protection. 'We need both and HBRC has taken steps in the right direction by installing a river level monitor and cameras. 'It means all that work that went into the rebuild will not be wasted. 'We will be doing whatever we can to support council including supplying fill from our quarries for use on the stopbanks.'
Yahoo
26-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
TREC hosts annual workshop focusing on environmental business opportunities
The great outdoors was the main topic for a group focused on preserving a major contributor to the state's economy. The annual Elevate Outdoor Business Engagement Workshop took place at the Tom Ridge Environmental Center (TREC) on Tuesday afternoon to help create new opportunities for outdoor businesses. Manufacturers' conference tackles talent attraction, retention Leaders from Pennsylvania's Office of Outdoor Recreation visited Erie to hear from business owners. They were looking for input on how to make doing business outdoors easier. Charity presents adaptive bikes to Erie children 'The fishing opportunities on Lake Erie are one of the truly unique aspects of our outdoor recreation industry. The way they attract tourists here on a great American getaway is something special in the Commonwealth,' said Nathan Reigner, director of Outdoor Recreation PA Commonwealth. Their final meeting will take place on Wednesday in Potter County. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
