Applying regulatory reform to local governments will be another issue of attention. There will probably be a number of proposed changes to the GMA in the next session. One area of specific concern is with the Growth Management Hearings Boards. There are proposals to change their authority. The proposals range from being more explicit about their authority to eliminating some of their responsibilities.
Complaints abound that the boards are acting super planners.
However, there is a value in having state coordination. D. Sen. Betti Sheldon Sen. Sheldon also thought the Commission should involve Legislators. She noted she represents Kitsap County which has had problems dealing with the challenges of planning for growth. One major roadblock has been dealing with property rights. One solution may be to give additional flexibility to small property owners.