Washington County planners outline state-driven housing mandates and local response
County planners told the Planning Commission that state laws since 2019 (including House Bill 2001, HB 2138 and SB 974) require changes to local rules and that the county will pursue a mix of code amendments, grant-funded promotions and consultant support to meet housing production and reporting deadlines.
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Cassie Brown, an associate planner, told the Washington County Planning Commission on Feb. 18 that since 2019 the state has steadily expanded requirements meant to increase housing supply and streamline approvals. "In 2019, House Bill 2001 was adopted. This was a landmark bill that ... introduced middle housing as an outright allowed use on lots that permit a single detached unit," Brown said, summarizing the state direction that now also includes HB 2138 and SB 974.
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