The Sconi

The Wisconsin Builders Association (WBA) has expressed approval following Governor Evers' signing of a workforce housing package aimed at increasing affordable housing in the state.

"The lack of affordable housing across Wisconsin is at a critical level," stated WBA President Mike Howe. He highlighted the importance of funding loans through the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority for various projects, including workforce housing residential infrastructure costs, main street multifamily remodeling, conversion of commercial buildings for housing, and single-family remodeling projects. According to Howe, these efforts are essential to reducing housing costs for working families throughout Wisconsin.

Howe pointed out that excessive and outdated regulations add over $93,000 to the final price of a new home, raising it by nearly 24 percent. He also noted the significant reduction in available lots and new homes compared to pre-recession averages, combined with volatile interest rates and inflated material costs. "These bills will go a long way in assisting a variety of challenges in the creation of workforce housing," he added.

WBA Executive Director Brad Boycks acknowledged the bipartisan efforts that led to this legislation. "We are thankful for the bipartisan work done to enact this legislation; to our industry partners in advocating for this legislation, Representative Brooks and Senator Quinn for spearheading it, the Joint Committee on Finance for approving funding, the legislature for passing them, and Governor Evers for signing the bills into law," said Boycks. He emphasized that these measures would provide additional tools for developers, builders, remodelers, and local government units to construct much-needed workforce housing units across Wisconsin.

The WBA is a professional trade association consisting of 21 local associations focused on helping members build communities around Wisconsin. The organization advocates for its 4,000 home building industry members to ensure housing remains affordable and accessible for families in the state.