News

ARTICLE
Date ArticleType
10/10/2023 Member News

Testimony Needed at the Governor’s Housing Production Advisory Council


On Friday, October 13th, the Governor’s HPAC will meet to discuss several important issues for our industry, including recommendations on how to approach reducing the harmful impacts that municipal tree codes can have on housing development. HBA has four members represented on this important body and is closely monitoring the recommendations that regularly being voted on by its membership.

Read the testimony HBA recently provided to support of our members’ contributions and recommendations. If you would like to register to attend an upcoming meeting, please reach out directly to Preston Korst at prestonk@hbapdx.org.

TESTIMONY NEEDED: We’re asking our members to submit the message below to the Governor’s Housing Production Advisory Council (HPAC). The message can be personalized and sent via email to: HPAC.gov@oregon.gov. If you’re able, please submit before Friday October 13th at noon. This will help ensure our members on HPAC feel the backing of our industry as they propose bold changes to increase housing production in Oregon.

- - -

Subject Line: Strong Support for Council's Recommendations

Dear Governor Kotek and HPAC Members,

I want to express my support for the recommendations put forward by the HPAC. These proposals offer a holistic approach to tackling some of the most pressing housing issues facing our state. The recommendations encompass a wide range of crucial areas, from expanding the urban growth boundary (UGB), providing much-needed infrastructure funding for local governments, to focusing on residential construction permit review reforms.

The recommendation to expand the Building Codes Division's (BCD) ready-build plan program is another step in the right direction. The consideration of wetland mitigation and numerous tree code review/revisions reflects a commitment to sustainable and responsible development, ensuring that our state's growth is both environmentally conscious and economically viable.

By supporting these recommendations, we can collectively work towards a brighter future where more Oregonians have access to safe, affordable housing, and where the dream of homeownership is within reach for a broader spectrum of our population. These measures have the potential to stimulate economic growth, reduce homelessness, and enhance our overall quality of life. I encourage you to lend your support to these recommendations, as they represent a significant step forward in addressing the housing challenges our state faces.

Thank you for your time and consideration.