Whoever coined the phrase, "Close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades," likely spent time in the political arena.  

 Last Monday night, SB15-177 - the measure focused on addressing the defect in state statute, which is impacting the building of moderately priced for-sale multifamily housing, was defeated in the House State and Veterans Affairs Committee with a party line vote.  The defeat followed countless hours of work and negotiation; building a strong, diverse coalition of affordable housing providers, regional mayors, economic development, industry and business associations; and launching a targeted media and advocacy program.  Five Republicans voted in favor of the measure; all six Democrats opposed the bill.

While this outcome was always a possibility - politics being what they are - there was a belief that partisanship could be set aside when a coalition as large and as diverse as the Homeownership Opportunity Alliance (see a list of the coalition members) came together in support of a legislative solution.  Sadly, that was not the case.

Below is a statement from the Coalition following SB15-177's demise:

On behalf of the Homeownership Opportunity Alliance and its members, we would like to thank Senators Scheffel and Ulibarri and Representatives DelGrosso and Singer for sponsoring this important piece of legislation.  We would also like to thank Lakewood Mayor Bob Murphy, Denver Mayor Michael Hancock and more than 30 metro and statewide mayors for representing their communities on this issue.

Senate Bill 177 was a thoughtful approach to address Colorado's lack of attainable housing, especially owner-occupied condos.  This bill represented an important first step toward a broader solution to address affordable housing across Colorado.  That is why bipartisan lawmakers, mayors, elected local officials, affordable housing advocates, and business and trade groups joined to form one the largest coalitions in recent memory to encourage the development of attainable housing, transit-orient projects and smart community planning.

 Throughout this effort, we were clear that Colorado needed a more efficient statewide system for handling construction defects issues.  The Homeownership Opportunity Alliance will continue to search for a unified state process while vigorously pursuing local solutions to this housing crisis.

SB177's demise represents a missed opportunity for many Coloradans-including would-be first-time homebuyers and seniors-who want an opportunity to own an affordably priced home.  The House of Representative's inaction will further delay the dream of homeownership for countless residents of our state.

Additionally, both The Denver Post and the Colorado Spring Gazette have weighed in with their disappointment around the bill's defeat.  Where do we go from here?   That discussion and debate will continue, and Colorado Concern will be an active participant in defining our next steps.  We do know several municipalities have taken this issue into their own hands by passing ordinances that will allow multifamily development to proceed, and others are planning to do so.  While workable, it creates a patchwork of regulations for what truly is an issue of statewide concern.  Additionally, the District Court is reviewing a case that could settle this issue in a manner that is consistent with the ideals of SB 177.  That decision is several years out, but should the political winds at the Capitol not change, local actions and awaiting the court's ruling may be the best approach.  

Should you have questions about this measure, or any other proposal under consideration at the Capitol, please don't hesitate to contact me at tamra@coloradoconcern.com.

Warmly,

Tamra