Congresswoman Schrier, Local Leaders Hold Roundtable Discussion on Housing Affordability Crisis

ISSAQUAH, WA – Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) recently joined local leaders and housing providers to discuss challenges and proposed solutions to the housing affordability crisis. During the discussion, Congresswoman Schrier highlighted her bill, the Permanent Housing Affordability Act, which aims to increase home ownership rates across the country.

Congresswoman Schrier was joined by Issaquah Mayor Mark Mullet, Habitat for Humanity Chief Advocacy Officer Ryan Donohue, Washington State Community Land Trust Coalition President Kathleen Hosfeld, Imagine Housing CEO Yi Zhao, and ARCH (A Regional Coalition for Housing) Executive Director Lindsay Masters. 

BACKGROUND: The average age for purchasing a first home is now 40. For many families across the country, home ownership is simply out of reach. Washington state currently ranks as the fifth-most unaffordable state for housing costs. 

“Home ownership has become unattainable for more and more of the constituents I represent in Washington State,” said Congresswoman Schrier. “Across the Eighth District, constituents tell me that, especially at a time when prices for groceries, gas, and healthcare are skyrocketing, they can’t fathom saving enough to purchase a home. High rents also make it a challenge to find an affordable place to live and to save for a down payment. I am glad that local leadership and housing groups were able to come together for this discussion, and I am hopeful that we will continue to coordinate our efforts to expand access to all types of housing.” 

“As my kids finish college, I want them to be able to live in Issaquah, the town that I love,” said Issaquah Mayor Mark Mullet. “With things the way they are, they aren't able to. Federal, state, and local action are all needed to make housing affordable in our communities.”

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