North Dakota Commerce Commissioner outlines home builder incentive program amid special assessment concerns

Concerns over the effectiveness of a new housing bill dominated the North Dakota House Appropriations meeting on April 16, 2025. Lawmakers expressed skepticism about the bill's ability to alleviate financial burdens on home builders, particularly regarding special assessments that can deter new construction.

Representative Brandon Bridal raised critical questions about the bill's provisions, emphasizing the need for clear mechanisms to ensure that funds intended for infrastructure improvements do not end up benefiting political subdivisions instead of the builders. "If we give the money to the political subs, it's not going to go to the home builders," he stated, urging for more transparency in how the funds would be allocated.

Commerce Commissioner Chris Shilkin responded, outlining a scoring system for applications that aims to prioritize projects that lower lot prices and enhance local control. He assured lawmakers that the application process would include criteria to ensure that funds are used effectively, stating, "Anything that does not meet that, we would not score."

The discussion highlighted the importance of local development agreements and community input in shaping the program's success. Lawmakers are keen to ensure that the initiative leads to tangible benefits for home builders and ultimately results in more affordable housing options for residents.

As the committee continues to refine the bill, the focus remains on creating a framework that effectively supports home builders while addressing the pressing need for affordable housing in North Dakota. The outcome of this legislation could significantly impact the state's housing market, making it a critical issue for both lawmakers and constituents alike.