Project Manager
Craig Samanske brings over 30 years of residential experience to Safety Harbor
Starting his own residential building company in 1997 in Delafield Wisconsin. Craig takes great pride and commitment to ensure that the residence that is built with the highest of integrity and quality.
Craig has been married for over 30 years with one daughter and enjoys hunting fishing and boating.
Service Manager
William “Billy” Finlayson has spent his entire career serving the Boca Grande community, delivering exceptional care to homeowners and their properties both on land and on the water. Widely recognized as a trusted and integral member of the Hilarium team, Billy spent more than two decades overseeing some of the island’s most prestigious yachts and estates.
Through his extensive experience in the yachting industry, Billy has developed a strong foundation in service excellence, logistics coordination, project management, and meticulous attention to detail. During his tenure with Hilarium, he successfully managed complex day-to-day operations while coordinating multiple time-sensitive projects across a diverse portfolio of vessels and properties, consistently ensuring seamless execution and the highest standards of care.
Billy is deeply committed to building lasting relationships grounded in honesty, trust, loyalty, and integrity. In his role with Safety Harbor Homes, clients can expect a level of service that reflects these values—delivered with professionalism, reliability, and a hands-on approach that ensures every detail is managed with care.
Outside of his professional work, Billy enjoys spending time on the water aboard his pontoon and working on projects at home with his fiancée, Amy, and their Goldendoodle, Brody.
Office Manager, Safety Harbor Builders
Kerry Fox is an organizational cornerstone of Safety Harbor Builders, ensuring every project is executed with precision, efficiency, and discretion. She oversees accounts payable and vendor relations, maintaining a curated network of trusted partners aligned with the company’s high standards.
Kerry works closely with Lee and Charlotte County to navigate permitting and zoning with ease, keeping projects moving seamlessly. As a central point of contact, she fosters strong relationships with clients, project managers, vendors, and subcontractors delivering a refined, well-managed building experience from start to finish.
Originally from South Central Indiana, Kerry relocated to Florida with her husband, Matt, and their Chihuahua, Rocky. She and Matt have an adult son and daughter who remain in Indiana, along with three grandchildren and another on the way. Outside of work, Kerry enjoys boating, spending time with family and friends, reading, and relaxing poolside and looks forward to adding more travel to the years ahead.
Lead Bookkeeper
Bonnie Pawlowski joined Safety Harbor Builders in December of 2025. She recently relocated to Florida from Michigan and has extensive accounting and bookkeeping experience. She specializes in process improvement, automation, and client relationships.
Project Manager
Ben Patow is a seasoned builder with over 25 years of experience delivering exceptional custom residences. With expertise in structural framing and fine finish carpentry, his work reflects a commitment to precision, craftsmanship, and uncompromising quality.
Known for his discreet, client-centered approach, Ben collaborates closely with homeowners, architects, and designers to bring highly customized visions to life. Each project is executed with a level of care and attention that defines true luxury living.
Outside of his work, Ben enjoys time on the water boating, surfing, and fishing and has a passion for animals, caring for a parrot, a cat, koi fish, and a saltwater aquarium.
Interior Designer / Selections Coordinator
With a passion for transforming spaces into both functional and aesthetic works of art, Madison is a talented interior designer specializing in residential design. Raised along the East Coast, Madison’s exposure to a variety of architectural styles and coastal living has shaped her unique design perspective. After earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design from Western Carolina University, she moved to Florida to begin her career and immerse herself in the world of custom homes.
Specializing in high-end residential build/design, Madison seamlessly works on custom homes, focusing on interior details and a coastal-inspired aesthetic. From concept to completion, Madison collaborates closely with contractors, builders, homeowners, and fellow designers to ensure every project runs smoothly and efficiently. Her approach is centered around an easy, streamlined design/build process, ensuring that each design vision is executed with precision and ease.
With a keen eye for detail, Madison brings both creativity and functionality into every space. Whether transforming a beachfront retreat or crafting a timeless family home, her work is defined by a commitment to creating spaces that are personal, inviting, and perfectly tailored to the unique needs of each client.
Madison draws constant inspiration from her love of travel, exploring different cultures, environments, and design aesthetics to bring fresh ideas and innovative solutions to each project. Whether designing intricate interior details or creating a seamless flow between rooms, Madison is dedicated to delivering spaces that are not only beautiful but also livable and enduring.
Interior Designer / Selections Coordinator
Throughout the last 18 years, Lindsey has worked within various fields in the Residential Design Industry. Lindsey was born and raised in Rockford, Illinois and attended and graduated with a Bachelors Degree in Interior Design from the International Academy of Design and Technology in Chicago, IL in 2006.
Within a week of graduating, Lindsey moved to Southwest Florida to begin her dream career of working in Residential Design. Upon her arrival to the Sunshine state, she began working in the interiors division of a high-end furniture and design company in Naples, FL. Throughout Lindsey’s years working for the company, she gained a vast amount of knowledge and experience working with clients during the construction process of their new homes or complete home renovations. During this time, Lindsey also assisted in designing multiple award-winning model homes for local custom builders. This experience alone has helped Lindsey to become highly knowledgeable in space planning, assisting home owners and their builders in every aspect of their individual design needs, aesthetic goals and lifestyle requirements.
As Lindsey’s career and family grew throughout the last seven years, she chose to take her talents to a local specialty window treatment company where she quickly became an expert in designing and selecting custom decorative and functional window treatments.Each client received a personalized experience that started with an initial in-home consultation where they would discuss their overall goals in terms of design and function all the way through the final installation, where Lindsey was able to confirm their visions became reality.
Over the years, Lindsey has come to realize that her favorite part of being an Interior Designer is working with individual home owners to piece together every aspect of their dream home. The ability to have these positive interactions and influences with each and every homeowner during what normally may be a very stressful period of time is ultimately what puts a smile on her face day in and day out.
During her free time, Lindsey loves spending time with her two kids and beloved puppy Maggie. Most of her family has also joined their crew in moving to Punta Gorda and are proud to call Southwest Florida their home.
Services Manager
John Langton, a Services Manager at Safety Harbor Builders, has 17 years of residential construction experience ranging from turnkey new builds to additions and remodels. He has held his builders license in Michigan for nearly 4 years. He is excited to be with Safety Harbor Builders.
John was born and raised in Michigan. He and his family recently moved to Florida. In his spare time John enjoys hunting, fishing and spending time with his wife Justine, and three daughters, Jolene, Josie and Jocelyn.
Interior Designer
Emily Glasser, a southern soul born and raised in Nashville Tennessee, joined the Safety Harbor Builders team with her extensive knowledge and overwhelming love for design. While she comes from a long line of home builders and general contractors, her professional experience includes everything from architecture and space planning to interior selections during new construction and styling with furniture and accessories.
Emily has collaborated with clients and builders to design luxury projects ranging from $500,000-$17M in her time as a designer. While her career started in sales for her family’s Plumbing, HVAC and Electrical business, she has since worked in multiple residential new builds and major commercial projects like Nashville’s downtown Four Seasons and the new GEODIS Park. With previous trade experience from residential and commercial enterprises alike, her industry knowledge is further complemented by her ability to help manage the numerous design selections in the company’s custom homes.
Today, Emily is living out her lifelong dream, assisting luxury custom home clients in choosing the amenities and design features that will make her clients not just happy, but thrilled with their new homes.What she loves most about interior design is the opportunity to get to really know her clients and create beautiful spaces that fit their lifestyles and personalities.
When Emily is not designing a beautiful custom home or remodeling spaces on the island, she is busy beaching, boating, cheering on the Tennessee Volunteers and spending time with her 5yr old daughter, Parker.
Project Manager
Meet Steve Henjum, a licensed General Contractor with over 35 years of experience in residential construction. Originally from Minnesota, Steve has owned and operated his own design-build company for 35 years, specializing in both remodeling and new construction.
Steve’s expertise in construction is vast, having acquired all skills and knowledge of construction, plumbing, drywall, electrical, framing, HVAC, carpentry, trim, and insulation throughout his career. He has over 40 years of professional experience in self-employment and has also dabbled in Landscape design, previously owning his own landscaping company.
When Steve is not on a construction site, you can find him spending time with his family, which includes his wife, two grown children, and his beloved furry friend. As a dog lover, he enjoys taking his dog for long walks and exploring the great outdoors.
What truly drives Steve is his passion for every aspect of construction. He loves seeing a project through from start to finish and finds great satisfaction in changing someone’s life through construction. With his experience and knowledge, he has the ability to take your vision and make it a reality.
Safety Harbor Builders has been building homes in southwest Florida coastal communities since its inception in 1983 and has held a consistent and enduring legacy ever since.Our commitment to not only meeting but exceeding the expectations of our clients is the cornerstone of our business philosophy.
In the late eighties, after completing projects on the islands of Sanibel, Upper Captiva, Useppa, and Naples, FL, we began building and remodeling on Boca Grande. Currently we exclusively work in the coastal communities of Boca Grande. Over the years, we have provided construction services to over 1,000 discerning clients and would welcome the opportunity to tour you through a Safety Harbor built home where you will see and feel the difference in the quality and craftsmanship.
Our long history on Gasparilla Island began with construction in the Boca Bay communities in the late 1980’s and over the years has evolved into room additions, complete remodels, and luxury Gulf front homes. The Safety Harbor name holds a prominent standard on island that is synonymous with high-end quality homes.
Whether new construction, renovation, historic restoration, or an integrated green residence, Safety Harbor Builders has fulfilled client’s dreams with homes that hold their value and are environmentally friendly.
We are an employee-based company which allows us to manage projects in the most efficient and cost-effective manner possible.
Our quality standards are unbending, and our post construction services are unmatched. Please contact us directly to find out more about the services we offer and how you can experience the Safety Harbor difference.
Vice-President, Owner
Meet Randy, a seasoned builder with a passion for luxury high-end residential construction. Originally from Fairview, Pennsylvania, he moved to Florida in 1980 and has always worked in the residential construction industry.
Randy’s interest in construction began when he started working with his father in his construction business. His father’s company did all their own work with no subcontractors, which allowed Randy to learn “hands-on” all the trades of construction. He also ran trim and painting crews there.
In 1990, Randy became a licensed contractor and has been with Safety Harbor Builders since 1999. He takes great pride in his work and thoroughly enjoys all aspects of construction. Randy has always preferred and loved working in high-end construction, as he enjoys producing quality and craftsmanship of the highest level.
In his personal life, Randy is a family man, married with three children and two pets. He enjoys boating and fishing in his spare time. With Randy’s wealth of experience and passion for high-end construction, you can trust that your project is in capable hands with Safety Harbor Builders.
Residential Contractor
Rusty Wistrom is a highly experienced residential contractor based in Florida. With 49 years in the construction industry, Rusty brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to every project he works on. He started his career as a carpenter in Grantsburg, Wisconsin in 1974 and has been making his clients happy ever since.
Rusty moved to Florida 18 and a half years ago and has been with Safety Harbor Builders for the same amount of time. He is a licensed contractor, having obtained his license in 2008, and is committed to providing the highest quality work to his clients.
For Rusty, the best part of his job is seeing the satisfaction of his clients upon completion of their projects. He is passionate about his work and takes pride in ensuring that every aspect of a project is done to the highest standards. He also enjoys sport shooting in his free time.
Rusty is a family man, with a wife, two children, and a beloved dog named Barney. He values the relationships he has built with his clients and takes a personal interest in every project he works on. If you’re looking for a contractor who will listen to your needs, work with you to bring your vision to life, and ensure that every aspect of your project is completed to the highest standards, Rusty Wistrom is the contractor for you.
Vice-President, Owner
Gary Bingamen is a highly skilled and experienced co-owner of Safety Harbor Builders. Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, he has called Florida his home for the past 35 years. Growing up in Englewood, Gary attended Lemonbay High School and went on to pursue a career in construction that started 25 years ago. He has been a residential contractor since 2004, honing his skills and expertise over the years.
For 10 years, Gary worked as a production builder in North Port, where he gained a wealth of knowledge and experience in the field. 11 years ago, he joined the team at Safety Harbor Builders and quickly rose through the ranks to become a crucial part of the management team, running their painting division. Over the years, Gary has worked on various residential construction projects in Boca Grande, Palm Island, and Little Gasparilla Island, and has become known for his quality workmanship and attention to detail.
In addition to his extensive experience in construction, Gary is also a certified EMT (Emergency Medical Technician), a licensed charter captain, and a merchant marine. He is highly skilled and well-rounded, with a passion for boating, fishing, fitness, golf, and spending time with friends and family.
At Safety Harbor Builders, Gary is committed to providing his clients with the highest quality construction services. With his expertise, passion, and dedication to his craft, he is a valuable asset to the company and a trusted partner for all your construction needs.
Project Manager
Jamie Hafling a Project Manager at Safety Harbor Builders brings over 25 years of residential construction experience – ranging from new builds to remodels. Jamie owned his own business for 15 years and has been a licensed residential builder in the states of Kentucky and Michigan.
Jamie was born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky and attended University of Louisville. Most recently, he lived in Michigan for the past 7 years prior to moving to Florida. He is married to his wife, Michelle, and they have 3 children, Johnna, Justin and Brooklyn. In his spare time, he enjoys boating, fishing and playing golf.
CEO, Owner
William “Chip” Crawford III is a seasoned home builder with over 25 years of experience in the industry. He started his building journey in his teens, working for Crawford Builders, a luxury custom home building company in Lexington, KY, working with his father. Chip honed his skills by studying Construction Management at Eastern Kentucky University and later Accounting at the University of Kentucky. He then went on to work for the family business as a project manager and eventually as Vice President.
Chip, a passionate sailor, relocated to Florida with his wife to be closer to the water and her family. He is highly regarded in the construction industry, having won numerous awards such as project of the year, Remodeler of the Year, Builder of the Year, and serving as past President of the Home Builders Association of Lexington. He has held active positions in the building industry on both national and state levels. He has also been involved in many local and civic organizations.
Chip is known for his exceptional eye for detail and craftsmanship, which he attributes to his many years in luxury home building with his family. He values his relationships with clients and strives to make the building process seamless. He is versatile and creative, producing unparalleled quality on even the most challenging projects.
When not building homes, Chip enjoys boating, sailing, and spending time with his wife Cynthia, and their two Labradors Abbey and Finn.