Transforming Spokane's Housing Landscape: A Closer Look at Two Potential Bills

  Last week, I had the unique opportunity to be in Olympia, Washington State's capital, advocating for crucial housing initiatives that could potentially reshape the real estate landscape in Spokane and across Washington. In this blog post, I'll delve into two specific bills that were under discussion during my lobbying efforts and explore how they might revolutionize the housing market.   Bill 1: Administrative Lot Splitting The first bill centers around administrative lot splitting, a process designed to simplify the creation of new buildable lots for residential use. The aim is to enable homeowners to easily split their existing residential lots into two, providing various advantages for both the current owners and prospective homebuyers. Key Provisions: Minimum Lot Size: The lot must be at least 1500 square feet, considerably smaller than the average lot size in Spokane. Consistency with Standards: The resulting lots must adhere to minimum review standards, ensuring the new lots align with zoning regulations. No Demolition of Rented Units: If a unit on the lot is rented, any demolition or alteration must wait for 12 months after the unit becomes vacant. Parking and Frontage Requirements: Regulations limit off-street parking to one space per lot and frontage width to 20 feet, streamlining the process and reducing constraints. Easement and Design Standards: Easement widths for access to rear lots are capped at four feet unless specific conditions require otherwise. Additionally, no additional permitting requirements beyond standard single-family homes are allowed.   Bill 2: Rural Detached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) The second set of bills focuses on rural properties and aims to permit the construction of detached Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Unlike existing regulations, these bills propose allowing property owners with larger plots, typically found in rural areas, to build additional dwelling units on their land legally. Potential Impact: Expansion in Rural Areas: The bills, if passed, would allow property owners in rural areas to build detached ADUs on their land, catering to larger families or multiple generations living on a single parcel. Legalization of Existing Structures: The legislation acknowledges the prevalence of illegal structures in rural areas and seeks to address this issue by providing a legal framework for additional dwelling units. These proposed bills present exciting prospects for Spokane's real estate landscape, promising increased flexibility for property owners and potential solutions to challenges like affordable housing and Accessory Dwelling Unit construction. As these bills navigate the legislative process, it's essential for residents, investors, and stakeholders to stay informed and engaged in discussions that could significantly impact the city's housing future.

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A Harmonious Evening at Barrister Winery: Friday Music Series

Unlock the gateway to a perfect start to your weekend with the Barrister Winery Friday Music Series on February 2nd. Dive into an evening of delightful tunes, exceptional wines, and a cozy ambiance that promises to elevate your Friday night experience. Event Highlights: Date: February 2nd Doors Open: 5:00 pm Music Starts: 7:00 pm Venue: Barrister Winery, 1213 W Railroad Ave, Spokane, WA 99201 Admission: Free Age Restriction: 21 and Over A Symphony of Sounds: As the clock strikes 5:00 pm, the doors to Barrister Winery swing open, welcoming you to a haven of live music. The soulful tunes, performed by various talented artists, will begin at 7:00 pm, creating an enchanting atmosphere that lingers throughout the night. Reserve Your Spot: To ensure you have a prime seat for this musical spectacle, reservations are highly recommended. Barrister Winery offers an intimate setting, and securing your spot in advance guarantees an uninterrupted view of the performers. Savor the Moment: Feel free to enhance your experience by bringing in your favorite snacks, dinner, or hors d'oeuvres. Barrister Winery encourages guests to curate their perfect evening, pairing excellent music with their preferred culinary delights. This event caters to those aged 21 and over, ensuring a sophisticated and enjoyable environment for all attendees. Contact Information: For inquiries or to reserve your spot, please contact Barrister Winery at (509) 465-3591. Don't miss out on the magic that awaits at Barrister Winery's Friday Music Series. Join us for an evening of fine tunes, exquisite wines, and unforgettable moments. Cheers to the start of a melodious weekend!

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Chewelah Winterfest and Skijoring Finals

Get ready to embrace the winter wonderland at the heart of Chewelah! On February 3rd, starting at 11 AM, join us for a fantastic Winterfest event that's perfect for the whole family. This fun-filled day will feature art contests, delectable food and craft vendors, a cozy heated-tent beer garden, and live music to keep your spirits high. But that's not all! Prepare to be thrilled by the Melody Riders Saddle Club Skijoring Finals, taking place right in the middle of town at Mountain Market on Main with the support of 49 Degrees North. Watch in awe as ski jockeys are towed through a challenging snow-covered obstacle course by powerful horses. It's an exhilarating spectacle you won't want to miss! Exciting Additions: And if that's not enough excitement for you, we're also throwing in a jaw-dropping 60-foot Rail Jam right in the heart of town. This event promises thrills and spills as snowboarders and skiers showcase their skills on the rails. Event Details: Location: Downtown Chewelah and Market on Main 617 W Main Ave Chewelah, WA 99109 Admission: The best part is, admission is completely free! Bring your friends, family, and kids for a day of snowy fun. Phone: If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to call (509) 530-222.   Don't miss out on this epic winter celebration in downtown Chewelah. Whether you're a seasoned winter sports enthusiast or just looking for a day of family-friendly fun, there's something for everyone at Chewelah Winterfest and Skijoring Finals. Mark your calendars and be part of this snow-packed extravaganza!

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