In May, Tyler York, CEO of WABA, highlighted a few issues that WABA is actively tackling, all of which have broader implications for the housing industry and community development. These include:

• Subdivision Regulations: Refinements are being considered to create more sustainable and efficient community layouts.
• 20-Year Special Assessment Financing: This financing mechanism is under review to ensure long-term affordability for homeowners.
• Addressing Issues: Common challenges such as inconsistent addressing systems are being addressed to improve navigation and logistics.
• Rural Water and Electric Districts: Efforts are underway to streamline utility management in rural areas.
• Fire Marshal-Mandated Sprinklers: Discussions are ongoing about the requirements for sprinklers in 3–4-unit dwellings, balancing safety with cost concerns.
• Candidate Training School: Scheduled for the end of June, this school aims to prepare candidates for local governance roles.
• Tax Cuts: Advocacy for extending the 2017 tax cuts to maintain economic stability and growth.
• Tariffs: Addressing the impact of tariffs on the construction and housing sectors.
• Workforce Development: Initiatives like the "Build My Future" event, slated for October 22, aim to enhance skills in construction and related trades.
• Hispanic Council Development: WABA is in the process of establishing a Hispanic Council to ensure inclusivity and address the specific needs of the Hispanic community.

RSCK and WABA will be conducting interviews for Wichita City Council and USD 259 School Board positions in August. These interviews are crucial for identifying candidates who align with community needs and priorities.

Gentry provided an overview of key legislative developments from recent meetings in Washington DC. Just a sample of what brought back from the meetings are as follows:

A proposed bill seeks to amend the National Housing Act by allowing state-licensed appraisers to conduct appraisals for mortgages. This change aims to streamline the appraisal process and reduce bottlenecks in the housing market.

The modernization of the HOME program was another focal point. The presentation outlined four critical policy changes to enhance its effectiveness for low-income families pursuing homeownership:

• Modernizing Property Value Limits: Adjusting limits to reflect current market realities.
• Simplifying Resale Provisions: Reducing complexities to make resales more accessible for homeowners.
• Better Leveraging of HOME Funding: Ensuring funds are utilized more effectively to meet program goals.
• Adequate Down Payment Assistance: Allocating sufficient resources for down payment assistance to make homeownership more attainable.

The discussions between RSCK and WABA, coupled with the legislative updates from Washington DC, underscore the dynamic and multifaceted efforts underway to address challenges in housing, development, and governance. These initiatives highlight a commitment to fostering sustainable communities, enhancing workforce capabilities, and ensuring equitable opportunities for homeownership.

I hope everyone has a productive enjoyable summer!

-Dwyn Thudium

Government Affairs Committee, Chair