The Kitsap County Association of Realtors promotes the Quality of Life program in conjunction with the Washington Association of Realtors. One of five principles, namely, “Providing Housing Opportunities” addresses safe, decent, and affordable housing.

Our Association strongly opposes the county commission’s recently adopted impact fee ordinance because impact fees increase the cost of new construction. Extensive research demonstrates that impact fees increase the cost of a house by two to four times the amount of the fee. Given the multiplier effect, the impact on the price of a new home is very significant. Add long-term financing to the calculation and the true cost of the fee to the homebuyer is alarming. Increases in the fees directly contribute to the lack of housing affordability in our communities, locking prospective buyers out of the market.

Recently, our Association accepted Commissioner Patty Lent’s invitation to participate in her “Alternatives Solutions to Impact Fees” study. We joined other stakeholders, including representatives of the school districts, homebuilders, property owners, and business community, to discuss the issues of housing affordability and infrastructure.

Following a very productive exchange of ideas, the Kitsap County Association of Realtors asked Commissioner Lent to repeal the new ordinance and fee increases. She agreed to do so before January 1, 2004.

The Kitsap County Association of Realtors will continue to work with all stakeholders to build better communities, ensure economic vitality, provide housing opportunities, preserve our environment, and protect property owners.

David C. Jones, III, President
Frank Mahaffay, President-Elect
Kitsap County Association of Realtors