WA fund raids undermining efforts to boost housing supply, advocates warn

(The Center Square) – As the Washington legislative session continues discussions around bills to boost the housing supply, building industry advocates are warning that continued raids on an account meant to fund local infrastructure projects can undermine any new legislation.

“Not only is this concerning for anyone looking for a place to call home, but it also means less revenue for state and local governments,” the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties wrote in a statement to The Center Square.

Created in 1985, the Public Works Assistance Account provides funding for a revolving low-interest loan program for local governments seeking to finance infrastructure projects that can range from roads and bridges to water and sewage connections.

It’s the latter that is critical for housing, Building Industry Association of Washington...