Issue link: http://digital.nexsitepublishing.com/i/833937
BY NICK HARPER SENIOR DIRECTOR OF STRATEGY & POLICY MASTER BUILDERS ASSOCIATION Innovative Approaches to Housing, Job Training, and Community Development This is accomplished in a myriad of ways, including our annual Hill Day in Olympia, where this past February, 25 MBA members and staff met with more than 30 King and Snohomish County- based legislators. The MBA also participated in Governor Inslee's Housing Affordability Response Team (HART). HART was tasked T he MBA Housing Advocacy team is committed to collaborating with community leaders to increase the supply of affordable and attainable housing in our region. with examining how zoning, planning, permitting, and construction processes can be improved to increase the supply of housing at all economic levels. Preliminary recommendations have been delivered to the Governor's Office and this work will be ongoing. Our 2017 MBA theme, Elevating Our Influence, is driving us to recognize the need to innovate. This includes strengthening, and in some cases building, new strategic alliances with groups and associations directly impacted by residential housing issues. While identifying new ways to evolve and improve the way we serve the MBA, I have drawn inspiration from innovative member companies. One such company is Square Peg Construction. On its face, Square Peg is a developer/ builder producing high-quality residential and commercial construction projects. But owners Brady and Amy King are committed to much more than superior artistry and professionalism as builders. Together, this husband and wife team has a vision to transform the lives of individuals. Weld's mission is to ensure successful reintegration into the community for individuals actively engaging in recovery following incarceration, substance abuse, or emancipation from the foster care system. They do this by helping these individuals overcome obstacles to housing, employment and community connection. We know there is a severe shortage of affordable housing in this region. That problem is particularly acute for people actively seeking a safe environment to continue their recovery and reintegration efforts. A solution that Weld has identified: developer and bank-owned houses pending demolition are often the targets of illegal activity. By providing a bridge for both the property owner and individuals in need, Weld can create a mutually beneficial short-term relationship. The property owner allows Weld to use the home on the condition that Weld manages it according to agreed-upon terms and conditions. Amy and Brady King (and family) of Square Peg Construction. 22 master builder SUMMER 2017 housing advocacy