Don't miss the HBA Home & Outdoor Living Show, April 12 - 14, 2024 Wilson Logistics Arena  |  Ozark Empire Fairgrounds  |  Springfield, MO
Don't miss the HBA Home &
Outdoor Living Show
April 12 - 14, 2024
Wilson Logistics Arena
Ozark Empire Fairgrounds
Springfield, MO

HBA/Habitat Builders’ Circle Projects Break Soggy Ground

Habitat President J.B. "Dude" Melton introduces HBA President Matt Bailey at Groundbreaking Ceremony

It was a cold and rainy day for a groundbreaking, but that didn’t stop representatives of the Home Builders Association of Greater Springfield, Habitat for Humanity of Springfield, Metropolitan National Bank and Bancorp South from celebrating the start of the first two homes of Habitat’s new Builders’ Circle development.

The official groundbreaking ceremony took place Saturday morning, March 26, underneath and between two temporary tents erected to keep participants partially dry amid a downpour.  Habitat for Humanity of Springfield President J.B. “Dude” Melton served as Master of Ceremonies of the event. Scott Kisling, who will lead the HBA’s build of the first two homes, was onhand for the HBA. Other HBA representatives in attendance included Green Building Committee Chair Jason Bekebrede, Jim Baker, Cindy Kisling, Debi Murray, and others. HBA President Matt Bailey spoke on behalf of the HBA. The families who will purchase the homes also braved the rain to help break ground.

Participants dodge raindrops to join dedication of HBA & Habitat's Builders' Circle homes

“This project has the full support of the HBA Board of Directors and membership,” Bailey said. “We are excited to certify these two homes to the National Green Building Standard as demonstrations of how to build green affordably.”

In January 2011, the HBA of Greater Springfield announced it would partner with Habitat for Humanity of Springfield to build the first two homes in Habitat’s new Builders Circle development. The homes will be certified to the National Green Building Standard and their construction will serve as a demonstration of flexible and affordable methods by which construction professionals can build green in a residential setting.

Family members set to purchase green-built homes on Builders Circle help break ground as HBA reps Bailey, Kisling, & Bekebrede look on.

Home builder Scott Kisling, himself a Certified Green Professional (CGP), is managing the project on behalf of the HBA. Here, Scott’s Builders Circle Project Blog helps keep HBA industry professionals and curious consumers up to date on the latest green building features being incorporated into the project. The blog also provides updates on the project’s latest progress and upcoming needs. Those who would like to help with the project are encouraged to leave their comments at the end of blog posts. Or, e-mail Scott directly to offer your assistance.