Construction Contractors Board Sting Finds Three Repeat Offenders

The Construction Contractors Board (CCB) issued five field proposed orders during a Portland area sting operation on May 3, 2012. Three of those arriving at the sting house were individuals that the CCB previously issued civil penalties for advertising while unlicensed.

“Unlicensed activity is detrimental to homeowners and properly licensed contractors,” says Robert Rambo, CCB Field Investigations Manager. “Stings are one of the tools used by the agency to protect consumers and level the playing field for legitimate contractors.”

CCB shows outstanding civil penalties for Jesse James Starns, last known address in Portland, and Martin Allen Turner, last known address in Molalla. Starns’ penalties total nearly $3000 and Turner’s outstanding penalties total over $1900. Each received field proposed orders during the sting in the amount of $700.

Larry Berkley, last known address in Portland, was issued a civil penalty for advertising while unlicensed and reduced if the individual agrees to not violate the Oregon Licensing Laws. The CCB is reviewing violations of this agreement. The field proposed order issued during the sting is $600.

Two other individuals also received proposed field orders for $600 each.
• George Raymond Natwick Jr. (last known address Portland)
• Joseph Steven Ozmer (last known address Portland)

Oregon Contractor Licensing law provides for individuals receiving CCB proposed orders the opportunity for a hearing. A proposed order may become a final order by default after 21 days from the issuance of the proposed order.

The CCB is a state agency licensing more than 36,000 contractors. Anyone who is paid to repair, improve or build a home must be licensed by the CCB. Consumers can verify a contractor’s license and find information for successful projects by visiting www.oregon.gov/CCB . Information is also available by calling 503-378-4621.