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The Builders Association of South Florida (BASF) hosted its annual Holiday and Awards Celebration on Dec. 4, bringing together industry leaders, elected officials, public-sector partners, and BASF members to honor another exceptional year of collaboration, advocacy, and community impact.
The event was led by emcee Jose Felix Diaz, who opened the celebration by recognizing BASF’s commitment to its core mission: ensuring a streamlined permit process, advancing legislative advocacy, and strengthening partnerships across municipal, county, state, and federal levels.
BASF president Melissa Tapanes Llahues welcomed the audience and extended gratitude to the evening’s presenting, corporate, and contributing sponsors whose continued support makes BASF’s work possible. She highlighted the organization’s 81-year legacy as South Florida’s premier advocate for the building industry and emphasized the pivotal role of collaboration in a year of rapid regional growth.
The evening’s highest honor was the induction of Jose Gonzalez into the BASF Housing Hall of Fame, the association’s most prestigious recognition. Gonzalez’s leadership during the COVID-19 era helped shape industry-wide safety protocols, maintain essential operations, and unify sister construction associations. His sustained contributions to BASF, the Florida Home Builders Association, and numerous civic organizations underscore a legacy of excellence, integrity, and service.
Presentations were delivered by Cynthia Caldevilla, BASF’s Second Builder vice president with DR Horton Homes; Deborah Reyes, BASF Hall of Fame chair, and Kerri Barsh, co-chair of Greenberg Traurig’s National Environmental Practice.
BASF also honored several public-sector leaders whose work has strengthened South Florida’s development landscape.
The Hon. JC Bermudez received the Outstanding Community Leadership Award for advancing innovative solutions to environmental and housing challenges.
Art Noriega earned the Distinguished Public Service Career Award for his decades of leadership in municipal operations and public–private partnerships.
The Champion of the Industry Award went to Eddy Rojas, recognized for his technical expertise and commitment to efficient building processes.
Raul Pino received the Lifetime Industry Leadership Award for more than 30 years of influential service in subdivision and platting.
Finally, Eric Silva was honored with the Outstanding Community Service Award for his balanced, solutions-driven approach to planning, zoning, and attainable housing.
“BASF is stronger because of the collective dedication of our members, partners, and public servants,” said Tapanes Llahues said, noting that partnerships across sectors continue to drive innovation and shape the region’s growth.
The evening concluded with warm holiday wishes for BASF’s members and the announcement that 2026 promises to be another important year for legislative advocacy and community building.
Founded in 1944, BASF is the leading legislative and regulatory advocate for South Florida’s building industry. The association works closely with policymakers, builders, engineers, architects, planners, and community partners to support responsible development, promote attainable housing, and strengthen the region’s economic future.
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