The Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties (MBAKS) released two new reports showing how certain local policies are falling short as an effective affordable housing strategy. The reports provide technical information for local policymakers to support successful implementation of state laws aimed at lowering barriers for construction of more homes of all types.

A new MBAKS report concludes that Seattle’s Mandatory Housing Affordability fees have cut townhome permit intake by about 87 percent, inflating costs, shrinking middle-housing options, and jeopardizing an estimated $775 million in future construction-related tax revenue, highlighting the urgent need to reform the policy.

Today the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties, along with additional local businesses operating in Everett and Snohomish County, filed a complaint in Snohomish County Superior Court challenging the constitutionality of Initiative 24-03.