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Reuse Assistance Grant Progress Report

Sacramento County Reuse Assistance Grant Project (Part 2: November 1, 2001 to May 1, 2002)

 

Project Description

Sacramento County implemented a local ReStore in Sacramento County. The Habitat for Humanity International ReStore is a successful and replicable model that has been established in over 50 communities throughout the United States. Each ReStore uses diverted reusable building materials creatively to eliminate poverty housing and stave off deteriorating neighborhoods. Diverted construction and building materials are incorporated into Sacramento Habitat for Humanity houses and reduce construction costs while protecting the environment. Diverted materials not utilized in Habitat construction projects are stored and sold through the retail operations to increase Habitat building capacity, furthering its mission to eliminate poverty housing. Established a new ReStore to serve the Sacramento area, enabling the Sacramento ReStore to be entirely self-sufficient within 18 months of operation.

The steps required to accomplish their project are as follows:

Task 1.00: Start-Up Costs. (7/01 to 12/01)
The first activity for which the term "start-up costs" may be accurately applied is the City of Sacramento permitting process for the selected ReStore facility. This process involves their plans to transform the current warehouse into a retail location. The plans were completed by Dave Coburn, ReStore manager, with the help of over a dozen advisors, ranging form architects to energy specialists. Two special-use variances, along with a variance for their parking lot are also being sought. The plans were submitted to the City for review April 1, 2002. Task 1.00 is estimated to be 25 percent complete.

Task 1.01: Acquire Telephone. (7/01 to 12/01)
Soon after their decision to locate at 426 North 7th Street, two phone lines were added for use by the ReStore staff and volunteers. When the affiliate's offices move into this space, up to six lines will need to be added, along with a DSL service. In addition, a ten-unit Toshiba wireless phone system, donated by Intel, will be used for in-store communication. Task 1.01 is estimated to be 30 percent complete. The value of the materials obtained during this reporting period is estimated to be $6,500.

Task 1.02: Acquire Computer System. (7/01 to 12/01)
Further research into the POS software necessary for retail and donor activities revealed that Atrex offers the most suitable product for the SHfH ReStore. A Soroptimist grant for $285.00 has been obtained for the purchase of POS software, and Atrex officials are discussing a possible discount. A server and three computer terminals have been donated. Networking capabilities including wiring and cable have been installed, though not implemented. Task 1.02 is estimated to be 70 percent complete. The value of the materials obtained during this reporting period is estimated to be $7,000. The value of the materials obtained thus far is estimated to be $9,000.

Task 1.03: Acquire Cash Register System. (7/01 to 12/01)
In addition to Task 1.02, the ReStore has a variety of hardware needs. Since the last progress report, two specialty printers for barcodes and receipts, two cash drawers, and four barcode readers were obtained for use by our sales team. The cash register will be operated through their computer systems. See Task 1.02. Task 1.03 is 100 percent complete. The value of the materials obtained is estimated to be $2,000.

Task 1.04: Acquire Office Furniture. (7/01 to 12/01)
Early in 2002, Intel contacted SHfH with a potential donation from a remodeling project. Dozens of partitions, filing cabinets, and lumber (for other purposes) were collected from this facility. Rulands has also been generous enough to donate desks and tables for office use. Those that are unused will be sold by the ReStore. Task 1.04 is estimated to be 95 percent completed. The value of the materials obtained during this reporting period is estimated to be $7,000. The value of the materials obtained thus far is estimated to be $8,500.

Task 1.05: Acquire Alarm System. (7/01 to 12/01)
With their new location, the specifications of their alarm system have changed. The 7th Street warehouse currently hosts an ADT fire system. Recommended improvements for this system are being reviewed by the building's owner. At the same time, Dave Coburn has requested estimates from other providers so that the new site will be equipped properly, regardless of the owner's decision. Task 1.05 has been reviewed, and is now 75 percent complete.

Task 1.06: Acquire Fax Machine. (7/01 to 12/01)
Upon the purchase of a new fax machine for the Habitat office, a donated unit was shipped to the ReStore for its exclusive use. The HP OfficeJet 350 also allows ReStore workers to scan and copy materials, and with the replacement parts already secured, this machine serves the ReStore's purposes well. Task 1.06 is 100 percent complete. The value of the materials obtained is estimated to be $500.

Task 1.07: Acquire Fixtures. (7/01 to 12/01)
When Lumberjack locations in the Sacramento area recently closed, they donated a large amount of goods to SHfH. Items ranging from pallet racking to glass display cases to what will become the ReStore sales counters were all obtained form these operations. Nearly New Fixtures donated shelving frames and the lumber to complete the units. As the store begins conforming to its eventual retail layout, the fixture needs will be reassessed, and any necessary products will be obtained. Task 1.07 is estimated to be 70 percent complete. The value of the materials obtained during this reporting period is estimated to be $20,000. The value of the materials obtained thus far is estimated to be $45,000.

Task 1.08: Acquire Copier. (7/01 to 12/01)
No change occurred during the last period. Task 1.08 is estimated to be 80 percent complete. The value of the materials obtained thus far is estimated to be $6,000.

Task 1.09: Acquire Outdoor Storage. (7/01 to 12/01)
Michael Dunlavey, board member and owner of Dunlavey Studios, has designed the requisite signs for submission to the City of Sacramento for approval. These plans are being reviewed by the affiliate. Task 1.09 is estimated to be 50 percent complete. The value of the services obtained during this reporting period is estimated to be $4,000. The value of the services obtained thus far is estimated to be $5,000.

Task 1.10: Acquire Lighting. (7/01 to 12/01)
The move to the warehouse necessitated significant revisions of the lighting plan. Fixtures were in place throughout the new site; however, extensive augmentation and repair was needed. Cliff Popejoy, and the Habitat Electrical team, spent four weekends in January and February preparing for their relocation. At this point, minor changes are all that remain. Task 1.10 is estimated to be 90 percent complete. The value of the services/materials obtained during this reporting period is estimated to be $7,000. The revised value of the services/materials obtained thus far is estimated to be $8,000.

Task 1.11: Install Tenant Improvements. (10/01 to 12/01)
Schimotsu Architects, in conjunction with the efforts of Dave Cobrun, have designed a retail layout for the new location, utilizing the office structure already in place for ReStore and affiliate operations. Electrical capabilities (see Task 1.10 for more information), roofing, and lighting have all been updated since November 2001.  Task 1.11 is estimated to be 60 percent complete. The value of the services/materials obtained thus far is estimated to be $15,000.

Task 1.12: Acquire Truck. (5/01 to 7/01)
No change occurred during this reporting period. Task 1.12 is 100 percent complete. The value of the materials obtained thus far is estimated to be $6,000.

Task 1.13: Acquire Forklift. (5/01 to 12/01)
Since the November 2001 Progress Report, a great deal of change has been made in this area. Holt of California has donated a CAT forklift with 4,000 pound lifting capacity. In addition, Holt has supplied an electrical charger, a unit that reduces both cost and pollution. As the ReStore's mechanism for moving product was evaluated, the potential for pallet jack usage was made apparent. This prompted Raley's Grocery Stores to donate four electric pallet jacks to their program. Task 1.13 is 100 percent complete. The value of the materials obtained is estimated to be $30,000.

Task 1.14: Complete Building Improvements. (9/01 to 12/01)
Task 1.14 is currently under evaluation. Task 1.14 is estimated to be ten percent complete. The value of the materials obtained thus far is estimated to be $30,000.

Task 1.16: Hire Manager and Other Staff. (5/01 to 5/03)
Dave Coburn, a Habitat volunteer for the past two years, has volunteered to manage the ReStore. His donation has made a significant decrease in the ReStore's actual operating cost. Gordon Howat has been hired as Product Manager. He will be working 70 hours each month, with over 50 additional matching donated hours. Other positions will be filled by a diverse group of talented volunteers. Task 1.16 is 100 percent complete. Donated services (for Mr. Coburn and Mr. Howat) are valued at $41,000 for the year 2002.

Task 1.17: Place Advertisements; Develop and Distribute Promotions. (11/01 to 2/02)
A series of flyers and mailings have been developed for their monthly Parking Lot Sales. In addition, David White, a local artist and potential habitat family partner, has created a series of signs for use during the week of each sale. A marketing plan will be revised and updated during the coming period. The SHfH Web site has been able to promote each sale, along with the numerous volunteer openings and operational needs. Since Task 1.17 is ongoing, the work done does not constitute a certain percentage. The value of the materials obtained thus far is estimated to be $2,000.

Task 1.18: Purchase Office Supplies. (11/01 to 1/02)
Cartridges, barcode labels, multi-part paper, receipts, and ribbons have all been acquired. Other items will be procured as required. Task 1.18 is estimated to be 90 percent complete. The value of the materials obtained thus far is estimated to be $500.

Task 1.19: Execute Rent/Lease Agreement. (9/01 to 12/01)
A letter of intent has been signed for the 426 North 7th Street location. The lease is expected to be approved by April 30, 2002. Task 1.19 is estimated to be 95 percent complete.

Task 1.20: Calculate and Pay Truck Expenses. (9/01 to 12/01) 
Gasoline purchases have averaged $175/month. Other required repairs have been conducted. Since Task 1.20 is ongoing, the work done does not constitute a certain percentage.

Task 1.21: Secure Utility Services. (10/01 to 12/01)
Telephone, electrical, and water services have been contracted for the ReStore. Since Task 1.21 is ongoing, the work done does not constitute a certain percentage.

Task 1.22: Calculate and Pay Any Contingency Pre-Opening Operating Expenses. (10/01 to 12/01)
The estimated start date for Task 1.22 is from April 2002 to December 2002.

Task 2.00: Acquire Inventory Materials Through Purchase. (7/01 to 5/02) 
The estimated start date for Task 2.00 is from June 2002 to August 2002.

Task 3.00: Acquire In-Kind Inventory
In addition to the previously mentioned donors, a variety of individuals have made donations of quality products for the ReStore. Orchard Supply Hardware began working with them in December of 2001. The ReStore receives phone calls daily concerning product donations. Since Task 3.00 is ongoing, the work done does not constitute a certain percentage. The value of the materials obtained thus far is estimated to be $150,000.

Task 4.00: Operating Expenses. (5/01 to 5/03)
Since Task 4.00 is ongoing, the work done does not constitute a certain percentage.

Task 4.01: Run Ads for ReStore Manager. (5/01 until filled)
The manager position has been filled. Task 4.01 is 100 percent complete.

Task 4.02: Acquire VISTA Member. (9/01 until filled)
Lee Hu has committed to serving as the ReStore VISTA (Volunteers in Service to America) beginning late April 2002, for a one-year term. Mr. Hu is a recent college graduate whose educational and workplace background makes him well-suited for his position with the ReStore. Task 4.02 is 100 percent complete.

Task 4.03: Calculate Payroll Taxes and Benefits. (5/01 to 5/03)
With Task 1.16 complete, these calculations have been completed successfully for the coming year. Task 4.03 is 100 percent complete.

Task 4.04: Create Advertising and Signage. (5/01 to 5/03)
The new location of the ReStore and the anticipated opening date have created a need for revision within their marketing plan. The estimated start date for Task 4.04 is May 2002.

Task 4.04: Value of Volunteer Labor.
The value of the volunteer labor donated thus far is estimated to be $20,000.

Task 4.05: Calculate and Monitor Vehicular Costs. (5/01 to ongoing)
Task 4.05 is currently being managed by Gordon Howat, Product Manager, and reviewed by Archie Milligan, SHfH Executive Director. Since Task 4.05 is ongoing, the work done does not constitute a certain percentage.

Task 4.06: Research and Obtain Accounting/POS Software. (5/01 to ongoing) 
See Task 1.02.

Task 4.07: Write Off Bad Debt. (5/01 to 5/03)
Eight hundred dollars have been written-off thus far. Since Task 4.07 is ongoing, the work done thus far does not constitute a certain percentage.

Task 4.08: Expand Online Banking Capabilities and Credit Card Scanning Hardware. (9/01 to 12/01)
See Task 1.02. Task 4.08 is estimated to be 60 percent complete.

Task 4.09: Establish Equipment Rental Partnership with Rental Company. (11/01 to 12/01)
A new agreement has been arranged with Rental Services that provides for a 50-100 percent discount. In addition, the ReStore has been able to work with MT Trucking and Pacific Coast Building Supply to temporarily utilize semi-trucks and forklifts for major product moves. Task 4.09 is estimated to be 80 percent complete. The value of the materials obtained thus far is estimated to be $11,000.

Task 4.10: Design and Conduct Staff Training. (5/01 to ongoing) 
Don Mangeau, a former SMUD employee with years of experience in this field, has volunteered to lead this aspect of the ReStore staff team. As staffing requirements are refined and positions filled, he will begin to implement this program. This revised Task 4.10 is estimated to be 20 percent complete.

Task 4.12: Acquire Insurance. (9/01 to 12/01)
Insurance has been acquired through the SHfH office. Task 4.12 is 100 percent complete.

Task 4.13: Establish Janitorial Services and Design Schedule. (10/01 to 12/01) 
Basic cleaning has occurred thus far to maintain the warehouse. The estimated start date for Task 4.13 is from May 2002 to June 2002.

Task 4.16: Acquire Postage Meter. (5/01 to 9/01)
The estimated start date for Task 4.16 is June 2002.

Task 4.17: Establish Alarm Monitoring. (10/01 to 12/01)
See Task 1.05.

Task 4.18: Establish Utility and Trash Services. (10/01 to 12/01)
No change has occurred during this reporting period. Task 4.18 is estimated to be 50 percent complete. The value of the materials obtained thus far is estimated to be $2,000.

Task 5.00: Secure Lease of Warehouse. (7/01 to 12/01)
See Task 1.19.

Task 6.00: Ongoing Capital Expenditures. (5/01 to 5/02)
Task 6.00 is ongoing and will begin by June 1, 2002.

Task 7.00: Design Collateral Materials. (7/01 to 12/01)
A pre-opening ReStore brochure has been designed for informative and recruitment purposes. In addition, Scott Newens, who will be coordinating their direct recycling efforts, has constructed a Recycling Handbook for use within the ReStore. Task 7.00 is estimated to be ten percent complete. The value of the materials obtained thus far is estimated to be $1,000.

Task 7.01: Design and Distribute Direct Mailer to Building Contractors. (3/01 to 5/02)
Direct mailers (sent in the first reporting period) will be resent within the ReStore's new location. The mailer will also advertise available opportunities for involvement during the coming reporting period. Task 7.01 is estimated to be 60 percent complete.

Task 7.02: Acquire PSA Spot Airtime. (10/01 to 5/02)
The estimated start date for Task 7.02 is June 2002.

Task 7.03: Design PSA Content. (10/01 to ongoing)
The estimated start date for Task 7.03 is May 2002.

Task 7.05: Submit Final Report to CIWMB. (5/01/02)
The estimated start date for Task 7.05 is from February 2002 to May 2003.

*Permission was obtained from grant recipient to publish project profile.

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Last updated: June 25, 2008


Reuse http://www.ciwmb.ca.gov/Reuse/
Barbara Baker: RAGs@ciwmb.ca.gov (916) 341-6446