The Western Regional NAIOP Conference took place on October 19 and 20 percent of the Western Regional NAIOP members were in attendance. Edesa Bitbadal attended on behalf of NAIOP Silicon Valley represented our organization.
The event was the first of its kind to gather policy issues that are important to the members and impact the western regions’ membership. Over the last decade and even more in recent years, commercial developments have been under attack by local, statewide, and federal government agencies. Unfortunately, ‘job creation’ no longer affords enough of a reason for respective agencies approving new projects, or fee and tax assessments. As such, there is a need to think “outside of the box” and redefine business standards in a way that builds a case for positively impacting policies.
The open forum allowed for members to discuss issues that are impacting California, Washington, Oregon, and Denver. Discussions found commonality in:
- Water/ drought
- Rent Control (commercial)
- Homelessness
- Energy, electrification and gas ban
- Affordable housing
- Taxes
- Permitting
- Empty storefront fee assessments
In response to the members needs and the at the end of the one-day conference, NAIOP National is committed in providing support and assistance in the following ways:
- NAIOP organization will provide a development process index
- Update the NAIOP Research Foundation with studies and publications
- Share policy papers
- Develop an advocacy tool box
- Media Training
Want to learn more about NAIOP SV’s Public Policy Platform? Please contact Edesa Bitbadal.