Our Team

Project Chairs

Rabbi Yossi and Goldie Grossbaum
While neither Rabbi Yossi nor Goldie come from a background in commercial development, this project has lived in their hearts for many years. Long before plans were drawn or committees formed, they were able to envision what this Chabad Jewish Community Center could become - a home for Jewish life, connection, and growth.
Their role has been to hold that vision steady, inspire others to believe in it, and bring together the people who could help make it real. Through persistence, faith, and a deep love for the community, they have guided this project from an idea into a shared endeavor embraced by so many.

Building Committee

Jim Eilering, Committee Chair
Jim brings decades of practical experience to the building committee, having spent 37 years at SMUD where he ultimately oversaw facilities operations, maintenance, new construction, commissioning, and major renovations. His deep understanding of how buildings are planned, built, and maintained makes him an invaluable resource throughout the process. Recently retired, Jim is now able to devote focused attention to this project, ensuring that it is thoughtfully executed and built to perform well for years to come.

Nir D. Vegvaizer
Nir is the owner of NDV Builders Inc., a remodeling and custom cabinetry company, as well as an educator and real estate investor. With experience spanning gas station development, construction oversight, landscaping, and land preparation, Nir contributes a hands-on perspective to the project. He assists with oversight and the selection of finish materials, helping ensure that quality, durability, and craftsmanship remain central at every stage.

Ezra Dovid Philipp
With over 30 years of financial leadership experience across multiple industries, Ezra Dovid serves as the financial steward of the project. His role ensures that funds are carefully managed, budgets are respected, and resources are allocated responsibly. His guidance provides both transparency and confidence as the project moves forward.

Parham (Avi) Shekarlab, Esq.
Avi brings more than 30 years of experience in the local commercial property market, along with legal expertise that is essential to a project of this scale. His familiarity with development requirements, regulations, and local ordinances helps ensure that every step of the process is compliant and well-informed. His involvement adds clarity, foresight, and stability to the committee’s work.

General Contractor

Nyecon Incorporated
Nyecon Incorporated is a Sacramento-based commercial general contractor founded by Bruce Nye, built on decades of industry experience and a commitment to collaboration, trust, and clear communication. The Nyecon team works closely with owners and design professionals to guide projects thoughtfully from early planning through construction.
They understand that buildings created for a community carry meaning beyond their physical structure. By emphasizing partnership, transparency, and care at every stage, Nyecon helps ensure that the vision for the Chabad Jewish Community Center is realized responsibly - creating a place that will serve, welcome, and support the community for generations to come.

Architecture

Design Architects

Jeffrey DeMure + Associates Architects Planners, Inc. (JD+A)
Jeffrey DeMure + Associates Architects Planners, Inc. approaches synagogue design with a deep understanding of its role in Jewish life. For them, this project is not simply about creating a building, but about shaping a place where prayer, learning, gathering, and celebration naturally come together.
Based in Roseville, JD+A is a boutique firm known for its thoughtful, relationship-driven approach. From the earliest conversations, their team has worked closely with the community to translate values and aspirations into meaningful spaces. They pay careful attention to how people move through a building and how moments of meaning are revealed over time, creating environments that feel welcoming, intentional, and deeply rooted.
JD+A serves not only as designers, but as trusted partners and advisors, helping assemble a strong team of consultants and navigating the realities of budget and constructability with creativity and care. Their goal is to create a synagogue and community center that uplifts, inspires, and reflects the enduring spirit of the community it serves.

Architect of Record

Perkins, Williams & Cotterill, Inc. | Architects (PWC)
Perkins, Williams & Cotterill, Inc. brings decades of experience translating vision into well-crafted, enduring buildings. As Architects of Record, PWC is responsible for ensuring that the project’s design is realized with precision, safety, and long-term performance in mind.
Their collaborative and detail-oriented approach supports every phase of the project, from construction documentation through approvals and construction administration. Working closely with the design architects, consultants, and contractors, PWC ensures that systems work seamlessly together and that design intent is carried faithfully into the built environment.
PWC understands the responsibility inherent in creating a building of communal significance. Through steady leadership, technical expertise, and careful coordination, they provide the foundation that allows the project to move forward with confidence and clarity - resulting in a center built to serve the community for generations.

Civil Engineering

Morton Pitalo
Civil engineering plays a critical role in the success of any project, ensuring that everything beneath the surface supports what rises above it. Morton Pitalo brings this essential expertise to the team, addressing structural integrity, drainage, utilities, and site functionality with care and precision.
Based in Folsom, Morton Pitalo has contributed to many prominent regional developments, including the Fountains in Roseville and Palladio in Folsom. Their local knowledge and proven track record make them a strong partner for this project.
With decades of combined experience, Scott Pederson and Troy Adams are leading the civil engineering effort, helping ensure that the Chabad Jewish Community Center is built on a solid, well-planned foundation that will endure for many years.

Landscape Architecture

Fuhrman Leamy Land Group
Fuhrman Leamy Land Group brings the same level of thoughtfulness to the outdoor environment as the architectural team brings to the building itself. Founded by Steve Fuhrman and Kevin Leamy after years of professional experience, the firm specializes in landscape architecture and land development throughout the region.
The outdoor spaces of the new Chabad Jewish Community Center are designed to welcome and inspire from the moment visitors arrive. From gathering areas and quiet places for reflection to the Israel Garden, the landscape will extend the warmth and purpose of the building into the surrounding grounds.
With over 40 years of experience in Placer, Sacramento, and El Dorado counties, Fuhrman Leamy Land Group is deeply familiar with local conditions and expectations. Their professional credentials and commitment to sustainable, thoughtful design make them a valued part of the team.

Development Consultant

Capital Partners Development Company
Capital Partners Development Company brings deep experience and thoughtful leadership to the development process. Co-founded by John Buckel in 2002, the firm draws on more than two decades of commercial real estate expertise and involvement in the development of over three million square feet of projects across a wide range of building types.
Experienced in both public and private-sector work, Capital Partners brings a steady, knowledgeable presence to the team. Their involvement helps ensure that the Chabad Jewish Community Center is developed thoughtfully and responsibly, with long-term sustainability and community impact always in mind.