State adopts House Bill 1110 to address housing needs by 2044

In the heart of Kennewick's city hall, council members gathered to discuss a pressing issue that could reshape the community's housing landscape. The topic at hand was middle housing, a concept gaining traction as cities across Washington grapple with a growing housing crisis.

During the workshop, officials revisited House Bill 1110, adopted in February 2023, which aims to address the state's urgent need for one million new housing units by 2044. This ambitious goal reflects a recognition of the housing shortage that many residents face. The bill promotes middle housing—structures that blend seamlessly with single-family homes while accommodating two or more attached, stacked, or clustered units.

As the discussion unfolded, the council reviewed outreach efforts aimed at educating the community about this housing initiative. A slide presentation highlighted the various types of middle housing identified in the bill, emphasizing their compatibility with existing neighborhoods.

The implications of this proposal are significant. By embracing middle housing, Kennewick could not only provide more affordable living options but also foster diverse communities that reflect the needs of its residents. As the council considers the draft code proposal, the future of housing in Kennewick hangs in the balance, with the potential to transform the city into a more inclusive and accessible place to live.