FEBRUARY 2026 NEWSLETTER

HBADE Installs New Leadership Team

The 2026 Board of Directors was installed at the Builders' Ball

Upcoming Events

Our events count on your support. If you're interested in an annual sponsorship for 2026, or in sponsoring individual events, please email Katie!

What's Happening Across the State

New Castle County

• Tracking an ordinance related to parking reform

Kent County

• Working with Smyrna on equitable solution to impact fee ordinance that was overturned last year

Sussex County

• Tracking an issue related to plumbing inspections. Third party inspectors are being brought in again to manage the backlog. Let Katie know if these issues continue

Member Benefits, Reminders & Resources

NAHB Year-End Advocacy Report

Read about the biggest housing victories nationwide, including a major win for Delaware, in NAHB's year-end report.

Plus...

• DNREC Division of Watershed Stewardship Sediment and Stormwater Program has revised the Delaware National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Construction General Permit (CGP). Review the new regulations.

• The Office of the State Treasurer (OST) launched the Delaware EARNS Retirement Savings Program on July 1, 2024. Delaware business owners with five or more W-2 employees who do not offer a qualified retirement plan — such as a 401(k) — are required under Delaware law to register for the program.

• HBA Rebates is a free membership benefit for HBADE members. See how you can start getting money back for products you already use!
• Automatic dues payment is available! Email Katie to get started.

Delaware Paid Leave is Here!

The Delaware Department of Labor’s Division of Paid Leave officially launched the Delaware Paid Leave program. Delaware employees can now begin submitting claims for approved paid leave. As a reminder, there are four types of paid leave for which employees can be granted approved paid leave: parental leave, medical leave, family caregiver leave, and qualified exigency.

We encourage you to direct your employees to the Delaware Paid Leave Employee Information and Resources page to learn more about the program. There, they have access to FAQs, links to the recent employee webinar, a benefits contribution calculator, and directions on how to file a claim.

If you have questions about Delaware Paid Leave, email PFML@delaware.gov or call 302-761-8375. You can also visit de.gov/paidleave.

Member News

We love to spotlight our members' accomplishments or work in the community! Please email Katie with news to share.

Michelle Freeman wins Josiah Marvel Cup

Carl M. Freeman Companies is proud to highlight Michelle DiFebo Freeman, owner and CEO, for receiving the Josiah Marvel Cup—one of Delaware’s most prestigious honors for civic and business leadership from the DE State Chamber.

Under Michelle’s leadership, Freeman Companies has shaped vibrant, amenity-rich communities, shopping centers and golf courses through thoughtful land planning, development, and stewardship. She also champions giving back as President and Chair of the Carl M. Freeman Foundation, which supports nonprofit organizations where employees and residents live, work and play, and as founding Chair of the Joshua M. Freeman Foundation, advancing arts, education, and community enrichment in honor of her late husband. Her work exemplifies how builders can strengthen both the physical and social fabric of our region.

ThinkSecureNet Appoints Andrew Laroche as New Company President

ThinkSecureNet, a leading provider of managed IT, communications, and infrastructure solutions, is pleased to announce the appointment of CIO and co-founder Andrew “Drew” Laroche as its new company president.

Laroche has been an integral part of ThinkSecureNet’s growth and success since the company’s founding in 2009. In his role as CIO, Laroche has led the company’s advancements through his leadership, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the organization, helping ThinkSecureNet become a trusted technology partner for businesses across the region. He possesses a deep level of expertise, a commitment to excellence, and a collaborative mindset that have earned the confidence of the company’s employees, partners, and clients.

Do you know someone who would benefit from being a member of HBADE? Submit a referral to Katie!

Home Builders Association of Delaware

13 Nobles Pond Crossing, Dover, DE 19904

302-678-1520 | hbade.org