The panel was sponsored by the Senate Smart Growth Task Force and moderated by the Northeast-Midwest Institute. The discussion centered on the necessity for comprehensive land use plans to include the housing needs of a community. Gary called on policy makers, the buying public, and home builders at the local level to come together to discuss how to grow in a way that preserves housing choice, protects open space, and creates strong communities. Both the House and Senate passed separate budget resolutions before the Easter congressional recess. NAHB sent a letter to targeted House and Senate appropriators outlining NAHB s support and concerns with specific budget items.
NAHB staff continues to comb through the details of the budget.
President Bruce Smith and First Vice President Gary Garczynski conducted meetings with Members of Congress and key NAHB member contacts. They discussed the legislative priorities of NAHB, including NAHB s tax relief priorities, brownfields reform, and Canadian softwood lumber. Builders from Utah, Nevada and New York accompanied Bruce and Gary to targeted meetings. Then, each week you will receive the Washington Update in your mailbox. Be sure to secure your space early.