GOHBA Recognizes Special Achievement Award Winners
The Greater Ottawa Home Builders’ Association (GOHBA) recognized outstanding Association and industry contributors during the presentation of Special Achievement Awards at its Annual General Meeting on Thursday, April 29, 2021.
Neil Malhotra of Claridge Homes was awarded the Colonel Boss Award, an accolade named in honor of the first Executive Director of GOHBA. This award is presented annually to an individual for outstanding dedication and service to the association. David Renfroe, GOHBA’s incoming President, presented the award and described Malhotra as “always maintaining a pragmatic and long-term approach in representing industry issues.” Malhotra was also applauded for taking a leadership role in working with the Association through the new Official Plan process.
Claridge Homes was also recognized during the awards presentation as an inductee to the Enbridge Hall of Fame. The Enbridge Hall of Fame Award is presented to a member company or individual who has provided service and dedication to the local housing industry and to the Greater Ottawa Home Builders Association. Claridge opened its doors in 1986 as a small family-run business with a clear vision: to provide the best communities and homes for Ottawa-area families. As a leader in Ottawa innovative high-rise development and comprehensive housing communities, Claridge has effectively redefined the Ottawa skyline throughout 35 years of building in the National Capital Region.
GOHBA’s outgoing President, Roy Nandram was also recognized on the virtual stage, accepting the Fred Neilsen award on behalf of his company, RND Construction Ltd. The Fred Neilsen Award, named in honor of GOHBA’s second Executive Director, is presented annually to a company that has made outstanding and lasting contributions to the Association and to the housing industry. RND Construction has received multiple new home and renovation awards, and “the RND team demonstrates leadership in environmental design and construction, volunteerism and community involvement through their participation in Association activities and other facets of the industry,” said Renfroe.
The final accolade of the day was presented to Robert Merkley of Merkley Supply. Merkley was bestowed Honorary Membership, a designation conferred on any person, firm, association or corporation in recognition of exceptional and meritorious service to the residential construction industry. “There is no one more deserving of this prestigious honour than Robert Merkley,” said Renfroe. “He is only individual in GOHBA’s history who has served as president on three occasions.” Merkley dedicated a total of 26 years of service on GOHBA’s Board of Directors and Merkley Supply has long supported GOHBA’s many events and activities through continued sponsorship.
The Greater Ottawa Home Builders’ Association (GOHBA) has been the proud voice for excellence in the home building community since 1951. Builders, developers, renovators, trade contractors, suppliers, and manufacturers make up the core of the Association’s membership. For more information, please contact info@gohba.ca