There's another welcome addition to the organized construction industry in Michigan.

Last month, Mark 1 Restoration Inc. of Howell became a signatory contractor with Bricklayers Local 1 of Michigan. The process took more than two years to complete, but it was worth the wait.

"The management of Mark 1 Restoration is excited to work with Bricklayers Local 1." said Mark 1 President Scott Evett. "We look forward to a good relationship and a productive future."

Mark 1 Restoration specializes in tuckpointing, caulking, brick and stone replacement, terra-cotta restoration, shelf angle/lintel repairs, façade cleaning, masonry coatings and structural repair of beams and columns.

"During the past few years I met their men working on jobs and I would tell them about the benefits of being union," said Local 1 Organizer Chuck Kaye. "We have had several meetings over the years with Scott Evett where we explained our health and pension plans. I am glad that this finally came together and I know that it will be good for their workers, Mark 1 and the union."

Mark 1 has 12 employees, and two Local 1 members have gone to work for them since they signed a union contract.

"We're very glad to have Mark 1 with us," said Local 1 Business Manager Ray Chapman. "They're a good, well-run company and they have a lot of quality workers. We're thankful they signed an agreement with us and we look forward to a great future with them."