The City of Newport News supports this bill. Yards full of old furniture and equipment create public safety issues for residents and neighbors. Allowing the City an additional tool to handle this clutter is much appreciated.

Virginia First Cities Coalition is very supportive of this bill and all legislation that provides our older, core cities the tools needed to deal with issues of blight.

House Counties, Cities and Towns Committee; Land Use Subcommittee Good morning Chair and members of the committee. My name is Joe Pasanello, residing in the Town of Haymarket, located in Prince William County (PWC). I rise in support of HB 1898 to provide for a clarification to the general rule that an elected official of the “locality” cannot be appointed to the locality’s Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) by amending and reenacting § 15.2-2308 para. A of the Code of Virginia (the Code) to allow that “any elected official of an incorporated town may serve on the board of the county in which the member also resides.” Context: • In 2018, I was asked to serve on the BZA by my County Supervisor and was sworn in by the court in July 2019 • In 2020, I decided to run for local elected office in the Town of Haymarket and was sworn-in as a council member in 6/20/20 • Prior to the election, I consulted with the Chair of the PWC BZA and others re: the legislative intent of § 15.2-2308 of the Code. The conclusion was, since the town where I hold office is an independent body, separate and apart from the county, I should remain qualified to serve as a county resident in good standing • My eligibility/qualification to serve on the board was challenged by an anonymous citizen • 09/21/20, the county pursued an opinion from the PWC Circuit Court for guidance, and may have also sought an opinion from the AG’s office, but there has been no response, to date, that I am aware Rationale for support: • § 15.2-2308 para. A provides that, “Members of the board shall hold no other public office in the locality…” • With respect to locality, in § 15.2-102, Definitions, a locality or local government “shall be construed to mean a county, city or town as the context may require” and a town is defined as any existing town or incorporated community within one or more counties…” • A town is defined as a locality, a distinct and separate entity, which may exist within the jurisdiction of a county • In the case of Haymarket, as well as many towns across the Commonwealth, the town has its own Charter, separate and apart from the county, that provides for self-determination and sovereignty with respect to planning and land use, zoning ordinances, and boards of zoning appeal, in addition to other functions not under county jurisdiction or management • Given the distinct and separate nature of a town, such as Haymarket, with respect to a county, it appears that pursuing a prohibition to participate in the county on a board misconstrues the legislative intent • Rather than pursue the opinion of the Circuit Court or any other legal entity in the commonwealth, the opportunity for the legislative branch to clarify its intent as to eligibility and qualification to serve on a board is appropriate • Clarifying the eligibility and qualification requirements to serve on a board would also alleviate future questions or concerns should a similar scenario arise This bill has the unanimous support of the Town Council of Haymarket, memorialized in their resolution #2021-01, adopted on January 4, 2021 and submitted to this committee. In addition, the bill is supported by PWC Supervisor, Gainesville District, Peter Candland, PWC BZA Chair, Mr. Paul Chamberlain and Ken Luersen, Mayor of the Town of Haymarket. Thank you for your time and attention, and I stand ready to answer any questions you may have.

Good morning Madam Chair and members of the committee, my name is Thomas Cannella and I am a member of Poquoson City Council. In the summer of 2020 we (Poquoson City Council) increased two fees on our citizens, an application for the Board of Zoning Appeals increase from $250 to $500, an application for the Wetlands Board increased from $500 to $750. The cause for this is becasue per state code we must advertise these applications, along with nearly 300 other items becasue state code requires us to. The reason for the increase is becasue the cost to advertise in the newspaper is over $400.00. In Poquoson, we only have on newspaper to advertsie in, so there is no other outlet to do so, but if this bill was passed and we could advertise online, for the sake of not only saving cost but increased transparency considering more citizens certainly have internet capabilities than do receive the newspaper. I came to Delegate Mugler last year with the concept for this bill and I am extremely grateful for the time that her and her staff have put into this bill. This is not a time to allow special interests to interfere in or hinder the legislative process, this is a time for decisive action to be taken by elected officials to keep as much hard earned money in the pockets of our consituents as we possibly can. I would urge you to consider a committe amendment to the bill if it is not passable in its current state. Make this bill exclusive to the City of Poquoson, or allow it for cities with populations less than 15,000. Thank you for your time, and I hope it will be the pleasure of the committee to pass the bill and allow it to get to the floor of the House.

The City of Newport News supports the publication of public notices on the City's website. More and more, publication in a newspaper translates to a posting on the website of a publication. In some instances, viewing online versions of a newspaper requires a fee. However, publication on a City website not only saves the cost to the City (taxpayer dollars), once posted on the City's site. notices are free and readily available to the public to view.

Jay Deck with the Virginia Education Association. We support both bills HB 1917 and HB 1949.

Virginia AEE OPPOSES HB. 2023. This legislation unfairly singles out solar and wind generation facilities for additional scrutiny in land use considerations, ignoring other potential types of land use, such as residential and commercial development. We urge the Subcommittee to reject this bill. Virginia AEE SUPPORTS the passage of HB 2201. This beneficial legislation expands the opportunity for localities and renewable and energy storage developers to enter into siting agreements, facilitating the development of these clean projects and ensuring localities can secure specific, tangle benefits through such developments. We urge the Subcommittee to pass this legislation.

Virginia‘a forest products industry is the third largest contributor to our economy and depends upon a land base for the natural forest resources input. Members believe policy makers must know the impact of solar arrays on other land uses and industries. VLA is a proponent of the science claiming woody biomass as carbon neutral and therefore belies strongly it should be part of all energy policies. VLA has reached to VDOF and VDEQ for the acreage consumed or committed to solar arrays but has been able to get an accurate figure. Please support this effort to shed light and provide the public and policy makers with the impacts of decisions. We are confident the information will be useful in future decisions. Thank you.

Urban trees make Richmond a great place for birds, but connecting all of the City with tree canopy would further this if we could plant more trees in public spaces. This makes all of Richmond a cooler place in Summer and a great place for birds.

The Virginia Association of Counties supports HB 2042 and HB 2114.

As a member of Lynchburg City Council, I write in strong support of HB 2042. This bill will strengthen — significantly — local government’s toolkit in caring for and protecting our community’s environment.

One mature tree can soak up thousands of gallons of stormwater annually. Multiplied across a city or town, that is a heckuva lot of water! Preventing excessive runoff is how we can meet our goals for water quality and reduce not only flooding of streams and rivers but also neighborhoods, underpasses and commercial districts for example. In a one in rainfall, rain falling on a acre of pavement results in 27,000 gallons of runoff, while in a forested condition only 750 gallons runs off. One large tree can take up thousands of gallons of water per year. We are losing trees over time: Nationally, the rate of forest loss in cities and towns is on the increase. Recent data show urban and suburban tree canopy cover is trending downwards nationwide at a rate of about 175,000 acres per year – around 36 million trees annually. As these trees are lost, so are the benefits they provide – a loss valued at $96 million per year nationally (Nowak and Greenfield 2018)! In VA the state has estimated the NET loss of tree cover at 14,000 acres annually. But we can grow without significant tree loss. Founded in VA in 2006, the nonprofit Green Infrastructure Center works all across the south. VA is the only state I know of that has put a cap on how much tree canopy a locality may require. HB You may hear from some opponents that this will cost funds. But treed lots sell faster and for higher profits. And trees reduce urban heating and clean the air. The ability to keep communities healthy is key. And we will happily work with those who wish to study this further as we ran the study with local governments for the VA Dept of Forestry.

Reasons to SUPPORT HB 2042: This bill enables localities to adopt higher tree canopy replacement percentages during development where trees are used to meet water quality, flooding management, and equity goals. Specifically, this bill: - Expands statewide the applicability of the tree preservation statute, Va. Code 15.2-961.1. - Contains provisions that allow local governments to establish a tree fund or tree bank, providing offsite options for developers unable to achieve the canopy replacement percentages onsite.

On behalf of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, I write to express strong support for this bill, which would afford localities virtually across the Commonwealth greater flexibility to require, in connection with development projects, to rely on trees to address a variety of important existing programs: to meet the locality's stormwater (MS4) permit, to address local flooding in Chesapeake Bay Preservation Areas, to ameliorate the "heat island" effect often found in formerly redlined localities where a systematic lack of investment left a legacy of treeless streets and a lack of green spaces, and to conform to a locality's comprehensive plan. The bill would also extend statewide the authority to establish a tree preservation program, including tree funds and tree banks for use by developers in lieu of meeting tree requirements on site. The bill does not add any burdens to localities (it is entirely a local option bill), nor does it take away any existing localities authorities. Thank you! Peggy Sanner

Clean Fairfax supports HB2042. Virginia is losing 16,000 acres of trees every year to development and disease. Trees capture carbon, reduce flooding, provide habitat, improve water quality and quality of life. This bill provides localities with the ability to preserve their tree canopies for the benefit of their communities. Zach Huntington- Clean Streams Program Manager- Clean Fairfax

VACo supports HB 1919 as it allows counties to implement renewable energy and energy efficiency goals through a creative financing mechanism that enables the development of renewable energy sources and energy efficiency programs and measures. VACo supports HB 2042 as it provides both a creative and cost-effective stormwater management practice while at the same time authorizing greater flexibility in the establishment of local tree conservation statutes.

Friends of Accotink Creek SUPPORT HB2042/SB1393, Replacement and conservation of trees during development by Delegate Nancy Guy and Senator David Marsden The Va Dept of Forestry (State of the Forests Report, 2011) says Va loses up to 16,000 acres of forest every year. This is a big loss to the environment and quality of life. Trees capture carbon, filter harmful particulates from the air and water, reduce flooding, provide habitat for birds and pollinators, give badly-need shade in summer, lower temperatures in buildings and streets, and, most of all, trees are beautiful - even in their winter leaflessness when we only see "bare ruin'd choirs where late the sweet birds sang".(Shakespeare, Sonnet 73) From VCN: "The current statute limits localities’ authority to preserve and conserve their tree canopies. This bill enhances their ability to increase their tree canopies in several specific circumstances: (i) to generate pollution reduction credits through installation of an approved Urban Tree Canopy Expansion best management practice (BMP) or other approved BMP for compliance with the locality's Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) Permit; (ii) to help address local flooding in any development project located in a Chesapeake Bay Preservation Area; (iii) in any development project located in an area that prior to the passage of the federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, 42 U.S.C. § 3601 et seq., was redlined or graded "D" by the federal Home Owners' Loan Corporation; and (iv) to ensure conformity with the comprehensive plan adopted by the locality. Overview: Virginia limits the percentage of trees that local governments can require developers to replace or conserve in the process of development. Depending on zoning, those caps range from 10-30%. HB2042 and SB1393 enable localities to adopt higher replacement percentages where trees are used to meet water quality, flooding management, and equity goals. The bill also expands statewide the applicability of the tree preservation statute, Va. Code 15.2-961.1. The provisions in this statute allow local governments to establish a tree fund or tree bank, providing offsite options for developers unable to achieve the canopy replacement percentages onsite. Tree fund fees collected can be used to plant trees on municipal property or support non-profits conservation groups in planting trees on private property. Virginia is losing 16,000 acres of trees per year to development and disease. Their loss removes their ability to capture carbon and harmful particulates, reduce flooding, provide habitat, improve water quality and quality of life. " HB2042/SB1393 is a sound, well-crafted measure and deserves full bipartisan support.

Trees are vital for air quality. They also are good for tourism. Who wants to visit a city or region denuded of trees? Natural beauty, health, well-being,... trees provide a place where people want to live, work, and visit.

Trees are the "lungs" of our planet! Please, please understand the utter necessity of planting trees and nurturing and encouraging tree growth wherever and whenever possible.

Virginia is for lovers of trees. The hardwood forests of our state make it a special place for both humans and the many animals that call the forests home. Yet we are losing over 44 acres of forest each day to primarily development in and around our cities and towns. The loss of trees in these oases of pavement and buildings creates catchments for stormwater and heat zones that negatively affect our quality of life, the aquatic life of our waterways and the animals and plants near these areas. This bill would address remedies for these tree losses in and around critical populated areas.

Virginia is losing 16,000 acres of trees every year to development and disease. When we lose trees in our community, we lose the health, economic, resiliency, and environmental benefits they provide. Currently Virginia law limits how localities can maintain and increase tree planting and preservation when sites are being developed. I support this legislation since it gives localities more flexibility to expand tree cover in specific cases, such as remedying ongoing injustices as a result of redlining, addressing recurrent flooding and meeting permit requirements to reduce pollution in waterways. V/r, Shane Riordan 22401

Please support this bill to conserve or replace trees. Trees provide invaluable habitat and cannot readily be replaced when lost. They are an integral part of nature. Losing trees is to lose a critical part of the critical chain in which we live.

Delegates, I hope you will vote in favor or HB 2042. I'm a citizen who loves our state's waterways. Since my retirement from teaching, I've taken the Virginia Master Naturalist training and I've learned about the important service benefits that Trees provide. They clean the air and do a great job filtering out pollutants and prevent flooding. Trees are very important to help clean up our state's waterways. I hope you will pass this bill so that localities will be able to encourage more trees to prevent pollution and flooding. Patricia VonOhlen

On behalf of over 1,000 members in the York River Group, Sierra Club, who reside in the lower and middle Virginia Peninsula, we urge strong support for Del. Guy's HB 2042. It is alarming that Virginia is losing 16,000 acres of trees per year to development and disease. By giving localities the ability to exceed general requirements in their tree replacement and conservation ordinances, we can provide needed canopy to absorb contaminants, stem harm caused by flooding, and begin to reverse inequities resulting from redlining done decades ago. --Tyla Matteson, Chair, York River Group Sierra Club

Please save our trees!! Lived here 24 years - sooooo many trees cut down

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this bill. Virginia is losing 16,000 acres of trees every year to development and disease. We must take action now. Trees are vital to the overall health of our communities. They create economic value, public health, and of course environmental benefits. As a local school board member, I try to see the world through the lens of our K-12 public school students. These students are quite literally the future. It is incumbent on us to make the necessary changes in environmental policy NOW, so that they have a healthy, livable, economically viable Virginia in which to live and raise their families when they are adults. Our next generation is counting on us to make good environmental policy today.

I strongly support HB2042. Virginia's tree canopy is declining at an alarming rate, which threatens the quality of life of millions of Virginians and places our natural resources at increasing risk. Tree cover protects air and water quality, maintains beneficial biological diversity, reduces flooding, and prevents soil erosion. With fewer trees, stormwater runoff adds more pollution to our waterways, including both hazardous materials directly toxic to aquatic organisms and excessive nutrients, which result in oxygen depletion. Runoff from impervious surfaces can also increase water temperatures above the tolerance limits of many aquatic organisms and further contribute to loss of dissolved oxygen. Trees protect air quality by absorbing pollutants, sequestering carbon dioxide, and reducing local air temperatures, which can slow the production of dangerous ground-level ozone in urban areas. Neighborhoods that have been historically neglected by redlining suffer more heat stress and respiratory illness associated with air pollution because they contain fewer trees. This bill would significantly reduce the injustices faced by these communities by delivering beneficial tree cover to them. Furthermore, by mitigating tree loss, this bill would help protect the life and property Virginians who live in flood-prone areas and often belong to historically marginalized populations. Soil erosion hurts agriculture and shoreline property and damages biological communities in aquatic environments. In summary, provisions of this bill would improve environmental quality, support economic development, lead to more attractive and livable communities, enhance public health, and advance environmental justice. Thank you for supporting it.

Please support this bill. Trees are vital to the physical and well being of humans. Not only do they cool and clean the air but they provide mental relief. Studies even show that recovery time for patients in rooms with a view of a tree is at least two times as fast as one without. In addition they provide immense ecological benefits to thousands of other species of life. Studies also show that trees increase property values.

Lynnhaven River NOW strongly supports the passage of Delegate Nancy Guy’s bill, HB2042: Replacement and conservation of trees during development. We believe it is critically important that localities be allowed to adopt higher tree replacement percentages where trees are used to meet water quality, flooding management, and equity goals. Additionally, the provision which allows local governments to establish a tree fund or tree bank is an important feature in this legislation, in that tree fund fees can be used to plant trees on municipal property or support non-profit conservation groups in planting trees on private property. Increasing tree canopy in Coastal Virginia is an essential component in our attempt to address the increased flooding associated with climate change, while simultaneously sequestering carbon, removing particulate air pollution, providing valuable habitat, improving water quality, and improving quality of life for our residents. This legislation will help reverse the significant loss of tree canopy that we have been experiencing in Virginia due to development and disease, while giving local governments the authority to address tree canopy loss in their jurisdiction in an appropriately focused manner.

On behalf of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, I urge your support for House Bill 2042 that expands localities’ authority to set higher tree canopy goals under certain circumstances: To meet MS4 pollution reduction requirements; To address recurrent flooding in Chesapeake Bay Preservation Act Areas; To address historic racial injustices by allowing higher goals for formerly redlined neighborhoods; To ensure conformity with local comprehensive plans; Virginia currently sets a cap on the percentage of trees that local governments can require developers to replace when trees are lost to development. HB2042 would allow localities to exceed those limits. Trees provide myriad benefits: slowing down and absorbing stormwater, which improves water quality and prevents localized flooding; cleaning the air, with improved health outcomes; capturing carbon to reduce the impacts of climate change; and increasing green areas in our communities, which has become so important to Virginians during the Covid pandemic. The Virginia Department of Forestry’s research shows that the state is losing 16,000 acres annually to development, disease, and storms. Let’s give localities the flexibility to judiciously add more trees if they wish by supporting this bill. This bill is entirely voluntary for localities; it does not add any new responsibilities to localities, nor does it take away existing authorities. We thank Delegate Guy for patroning this bill and for your time.

The James River Association appreciates the opportunity to register our strong support for HB2042, a bill that expands localities’ authority to increase tree canopy by requiring higher canopy coverage percentages for development projects in order to meet water quality, flood management, and equity needs. We thank the patron for her legislation, and we urge the Committee to support the bill.

The Nature Conservancy (TNC) supports HB 2042, as we believe tree conservation efforts are an important component of nature-based solutions to mitigate the impacts of climate change. A comprehensive sea level rise adaptation study completed by the City of VA Beach in 2020 identifies conservation of green infrastructure, including tree cover, as a pillar strategy for flood risk reduction. A 2020 VA Tech hydrology study, supported by TNC and VA Beach, revealed forested areas use and store vastly more water than any other land cover type across the City. Tree conservation measures such as the proposed legislation will help localities maintain the flood risk reduction services trees provide as well as their many other co-benefits for nature and people.

On behalf of Virginia Conservation Network's more than 150 organizational members statewide, it is my pleasure to express our full support for Delegate Guy's HB2042. We are grateful for this opportunity to provide support for this bill, and respectfully request that the members of the committee will vote in the affirmative to support preservation and conservation of trees and canopy.

I urge you to pass HB2042. Trees are critical to our communities, environment and well-being. They provide natural services, including cleaning the atmosphere, absorbing CO2, cooling their surroundings, holding soil, feeding and housing birds and animals, and making life more pleasant for those who view them. They also enhance property values. Unfortunately, we are losing thousands of trees annually to development and disease. It is important to require more trees to be planted and preserved. Local governments should be permitted to do more to protect their trees and communities without arbitrary limits set by the General Assembly. This bill could be improved to do more to preserve and expand tree canopies, but it at least makes the significant step of allowing local elected officials to do more for their own communities. Respectfully, William Penniman Reston, VA

I agree and support the protection of water ways by tree restoration, red lining, and pollution mitigation. I’m hopeful that in the future, caring for our environment will be a top priority, given that it provides everything we need to survive and thrive.

I would like to join Friends of the Rappahannock in its support of HB2042. The Chesapeake Bay Forestry Workgroup developed urban tree canopy best management practices to apply in Virginia and other Bay jurisdictions. Tree conservation and urban tree planting are very cost-effective measures to reduce stormwater pollution and maintain water quality. Urban tree canopy improves urban health, livability and public safety, especially in former redlined areas with severe tree deficits. HB2042 will give localities much needed flexibility to expand tree cover to remedy tree deficits resulting from redlining, address recurrent flooding and meet Chesapeake Bay water permit requirements.

I wish to write in support of Delegate Guy’s HB2042 - “Replacement and conservation of trees during development,” which is supported by the Friends of the Rappannock, of which I am a member. As trees are eliminated by rapid development, particularly near our waterways, we need to be cognizant of the damage done and work on replacement as an aid to the environment and to reduce erosion and damage to our waterways. Past history provides a vivid case study of why legislation of this type is so critically important.

I feel this to be a very important power for localities to have. Virginia is losing 16,000 acres of trees every year to development and disease. When we lose trees in our community, we lose the health, economic, resiliency, and environmental benefits they provide. Thank you,

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on HB 2042. Friends of the Rappahannock SUPPORTS this legislation. Virginia is losing 16,000 acres of trees every year to development and disease according to the VA Department of Forestry. When we lose trees in our community, we lose the health, economic, resiliency, and environmental benefits they provide. Currently Virginia law limits how localities can maintain and increase tree planting and preservation when sites are being developed. This legislation would give cities and counties more flexibility to expand tree cover in specific cases: remedying ongoing injustices as a result of redlining, addressing recurrent flooding and meeting permit requirements to reduce pollution to waterways. It would also let localities establish a tree canopy fund, which developers would pay into when they cannot achieve replacement canopy on the developed parcel. This fund would let localities purchase trees and supplies to plant on municipal property and work with non-profit organizations to give trees away to homeowners. Thank you for your consideration of this bill and we hope you will support it.

The bill in its current form will severely constrain land bank entities from receiving properties and further we have very legitimate concerns that the bill abrogates a property owner’s right of redemption. The potential unintended consequences of the bill outweigh its usefulness.

Chair Heretick and Members of the Committee, It appears there are significant concerns from prior supporters of HB2052 due to the amended language. AARP Virginia requests that our previous statement of support for the bill be suspended as we look into these concerns. We continue to support HB2053. Respectfully submitted, Natalie Snider AARP Virginia State Advocacy Director 804-344-3063 nsnider@aarp.org

The Virginia Conservation Network is in full support of both bills being brought forward today by Delegate Samirah. One of the biggest culprits of climate change is buildings. They create about 40% of the world’s carbon dioxide emissions. Today, the global building floor area is about 2.4 trillion square feet; and this number is expected to double by 2060. This means that for the next 40 years, we’ll be adding the equivalent of another New York City to the planet every 34 days. To stop climate change, the way of building and city planning have to change. Both HB 2052 & HB 2053 can help Virginia begin to change the way it builds to be both more sustainable and affordable. By considering the impacts of climate change in their normal land conservation activities, land trusts can provide strategic investments and effective land management to help reduce the vulnerability of natural areas, working lands, and the human communities that depend on them. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) provide Virginians with more housing options that are typically smaller, more affordable, and closer to family. Launching a statewide stakeholder study is the first step to figuring out how we can better incorporate ADUs into our statewide housing stock to fill in the housing gaps for young couples, seniors who would like to age in place, and many more Virginians in need of safe, accessible shelter.

HB2052 -- Please withdraw our testimony in support. Late breaking information from a local Richmond land trust indicates that not all legal issues have been worked out. HB2053 -- We maintain our support via the comments we submitted a few minutes ago.

HB2052 – Samirah – Land Banks – Support. (CSG + PSG) We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2052 as a critical tool in the effort to revitalize towns, cities, and older suburbs, while increasing the supply of critically needed affordable housing. We support the amendment ensuring that the bill is only applied to tax-delinquent properties if the tax lien on the property exceeds the assessed value of the property. This bill will enable non-profit organizations to acquire for land needed to rehabilitate homes or build new affordable homes for our essential workforce. By removing the cost of land it will help ensure homes are affordable at lower income levels. This bill will also ensure that land and buildings are returned to the tax rolls. This bill is pro-economic development, pro-housing, pro-equity, and pro-smart growth. Thank you. HB2053 – Samirah – ADU study – Support (CSG+PSG+SELC) We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2053 to study the status and potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Virginia. At CSG we have produced a how-to guide for ADUs in DC and are supporting them in Northern Virginia. Alexandria City Council recently voted 6 to 1 to permit ADUs. ADUs have many benefits including providing homes for an aging parent (which is of increased interest given the health challenges in nursing homes), a returning college graduate starting out, or a member of the community looking for a more affordable place to live. ADUs can provide a stream of income to allow a family to afford their home or a retiree to supplement their income. They are pro-property rights and they provide greater diversity and affordability to our housing supply. One mid-size U.S. city is producing 500 ADUs per year. The information gathered in this study will help local governments to develop and improve their ADU ordinances and address growing housing needs. Thank you.

Chair Heretick and Members of the Committee, AARP Virginia supports both HB2052 and HB2053 introduced by Del. Samirah. Land Banks are growing in popularity around the country and here in Virginia. House Bill 2052 provides localities with the option to set up or interact with an established community land bank under the Land Bank Entities Act (§ 8 15.2-7500 et seq.). This measure gives these land trusts the first right of refusal on all tax delinquent properties going to auction and is amended to ensure that the bill is only applied to tax-delinquent properties if the tax lien exceeds the property's assessed value. AARP Virginia urges you to pass HB2052 as it is a good step towards addressing housing needs. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are a common-sense solution that allows homeowners more freedom concerning their property and diversifies neighborhoods in terms of housing stock and households. ADUs help address issues relating to helping older homeowners, single parents, young home buyers, and renters seeking a wider range of home, prices, rents, and locations. Furthermore, they provide a convenient living arrangement for family members or other persons to provide care and support for someone in a semi-independent living arrangement while remaining in their community, which is particularly important during health emergencies like the current COVID-19 pandemic. There is a need to assess the construction of internal, attached, and detached accessory dwelling units as a strategy to address the Commonwealth’s growing demand for affordable and market-rate housing. House Bill 2053 brings expert stakeholders, community leaders, and pertinent governmental organizations together to report to the State a clear understanding of the ADU stock in Virginia and how localities could implement ADU ordinances. AARP Virginia urges you to pass HB2053 and looks forward to being named as a member of the advisory group. Respectfully submitted, Natalie Snider AARP Virginia State Advocacy Director 804-344-3063 nsnider@aarp.org

AARP Virginia supports HB2052, HB2053, and HB2054, presented by Del. Samirah. Land Banks are growing in popularity around the country and here in Virginia. HB2052 provides localities with the option to set up or interact with an established community land bank under the Land Bank Entities Act (§ 8 15.2-7500 et seq.). This measure gives these land trusts the first right of refusal on all tax delinquent properties going to auction. It is a good step towards addressing housing needs. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are a common-sense solution that allows homeowners more freedom concerning their property and diversifies neighborhoods in terms of housing stock and households. ADUs help address issues relating to helping older homeowners, single parents, young home buyers, and renters seeking a wider range of home, prices, rents, and locations. Furthermore, they provide a convenient living arrangement for family members or other persons to provide care and support for someone in a semi-independent living arrangement while remaining in their community, which is particularly important during health emergencies like the current COVID-19 pandemic. There is a need to assess the construction of internal, attached, and detached accessory dwelling units as a strategy to address the Commonwealth’s growing demand for affordable and market-rate housing. HB2053 brings expert stakeholders, community leaders, and pertinent governmental organizations together to report to the State a clear understanding of the ADU stock in Virginia and how localities could implement ADU ordinances. AARP Virginia looks forward to being named as a member of this work group. HB2054 addresses increased city and county planning for transit-oriented development to include limiting parking requirements to encourage public transit use and increased density around our metropolitan areas. It is important to revise parking policies to create walkable, mixed-use communities that support public transportation use, generate revenue, and reduce the cost of housing. These are common-sense options to explore as a state, and we believe that support of these bills would be in the best interest of our Commonwealth's working families. We have shared these comments previously with Del. Kory, Del. Heretick, and Speaker Filler-Corn. Thank you for your consideration of our recommendations. I can be reached at 804-344-3063 or nsnider@aarp.org should you have questions or concerns. Respectfully submitted, Natalie Snider State Advocacy Director AARP Virginia

HB2052 – Samirah – Land Banks -- Support We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2052 as a critical tool in the effort to revitalize towns, cities, and older suburbs, while increasing the supply of critically needed affordable housing. This bill will enable non-profit organizations to acquire for $1 land needed to rehabilitate homes or build new affordable homes for our essential workforce. By removing the cost of land it will help ensure homes are affordable at lower income levels. This bill will also ensure that land and buildings are returned to the tax rolls. This bill is pro-economic development, pro-housing, pro-equity, and pro-smart growth. Thank you. HB2053 – Samirah – ADU study -- Support We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2053 to study the status and potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Virginia. At CSG we have produced a how-to guide for ADUs in DC and are supporting them in Northern Virginia. ADUs have many benefits including providing homes for an aging parent (which is of increased interest given the health challenges in nursing homes), a returning college graduate starting out, or a member of the community looking for a more affordable place to live. ADUs can provide a stream of income to allow a family to afford their home or a retiree to supplement their income. They provide greater diversity and affordability to our housing supply. One mid-size U.S. city is producing 500 ADUs per year. The information gathered in this study will help local governments to develop and improve their ADU ordinances and address growing housing needs. HB2054 – Samirah – TOD -- Support We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2054 – Transit-oriented development (TOD) – amendments. TOD is one of the most effective local economic development strategies we have. Think Amazon. Amazon selected the most transit rich location it could find – with 3 Metro stations, Amtrak, commuter rail, and bus. But it’s also the case that TOD locations are much in demand in Norfolk, Richmond, Fairfax, and North Carolina and other parts of the U.S. by the next generation workforce and companies. Marriott moved from an office park to a Metro station. VW is moving from an office park to Reston Metro Station. TOD communities are also great locations for new housing – where transportation costs are minimized. Because of the ease of using transit, walking and biking, and the access to jobs and services, parking can and should be reduced in TODs. Doing so also increases the affordability of housing because a structured parking space can cost $30,000 to $50,000. Not surprisingly builders are looking for flexibility to reduce parking and building costs. Therefore, we support the amendment to the TOD statute passed last year: reducing, modifying, or waiving local parking requirements or ratios. We also support removing the requirement that density be reduced elsewhere. The Coalition for Smarter Growth is the leading organization in the D.C. region advocating for walkable, bikeable, inclusive, transit-oriented communities as the most sustainable and equitable way to grow and provide opportunities for all. We are 23-years-old and also work in many other areas of Virginia assisting local groups and officials with sustainable land use, transportation and housing policies.

HB 2052 will increase the affordable housing stock and strengthen the handful of community land trusts already active across the Commonwealth. This change will encourage the conversion of currently abandoned properties into new, affordable homes for Virginians.

The Virginia Housing Alliance supports the concept of this legislation and we think that it could become a critical tool to increase affordable housing opportunities throughout the Commonwealth. However, we have some concerns with the bill as drafted. There are currently only four operating land banks in the Commonwealth. The majority of which have just been established. We are aware of several more in various stages of development. Given the relatively young land bank infrastructure across the state, we are concerned that legislating a pipeline for the acquisition of properties at this stage may cause more harm than good as land banks need time to scale up. Further, as land banks scale up and increase in number throughout the state, their needs and impediments will become better known.

HB2052 We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2052 as a critical tool in the effort to revitalize towns, cities, and older suburbs, while increasing the supply of critically needed affordable housing. This bill will enable non-profit organizations to acquire for $1 land needed to rehabilitate homes or build new affordable homes for our essential workforce. By removing the cost of land it will help ensure homes are affordable at lower income levels. This bill will also ensure that land and buildings are returned to the tax rolls. This bill is pro-economic development, pro-housing, pro-equity, and pro-smart growth. HB2053 We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2053 to study the status and potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Virginia. ADUs have many benefits including providing homes for an aging parent (which is of increased interest given the health challenges in nursing homes), a returning college graduate starting out, or a member of the community looking for a more affordable place to live. ADUs can provide a stream of income to allow a family to afford their home or a retiree to supplement their income. They provide greater diversity and affordability to our housing supply. ADUs are an affordable housing solution that strengthens the private market for housing and allows people who may not otherwise be able to afford homes the opportunity to build equity. The information gathered in this study will help local governments to develop and improve their ADU ordinances and address growing housing needs. HB2054 We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2054 – Transit-oriented development (TOD) – amendments. TOD is one of the most effective local economic development strategies we have. Amazon, for example, selected the most transit rich location it could find – with 3 Metro stations, Amtrak, commuter rail, and bus. But it’s also the case that TOD locations are much in demand in Norfolk, Richmond, Fairfax, and North Carolina and other parts of the U.S. by the next generation workforce and companies. TOD communities are also great locations for new housing – where transportation costs are minimized. Because of the ease of using transit, walking and biking, and the access to jobs and services, parking can and should be reduced in TODs. Doing so also increases the affordability of housing because a structured parking space can cost $30,000 to $50,000. Not surprisingly builders are looking for flexibility to reduce parking and building costs. Therefore, we support the amendment to the TOD statute passed last year: reducing, modifying, or waiving local parking requirements or ratios. We also support removing the requirement that density be reduced elsewhere.

HB2052 – Samirah – Land Banks -- Support We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2052 as a critical tool in the effort to revitalize towns, cities, and older suburbs, while increasing the supply of critically needed affordable housing. This bill will enable non-profit organizations to acquire for $1 land needed to rehabilitate homes or build new affordable homes for our essential workforce. By removing the cost of land it will help ensure homes are affordable at lower income levels. This bill will also ensure that land and buildings are returned to the tax rolls. This bill is pro-economic development, pro-housing, pro-equity, and pro-smart growth. Thank you. HB2053 – Samirah – ADU study -- Support We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2053 to study the status and potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Virginia. At CSG we have produced a how-to guide for ADUs in DC and are supporting them in Northern Virginia. ADUs have many benefits including providing homes for an aging parent (which is of increased interest given the health challenges in nursing homes), a returning college graduate starting out, or a member of the community looking for a more affordable place to live. ADUs can provide a stream of income to allow a family to afford their home or a retiree to supplement their income. They provide greater diversity and affordability to our housing supply. One mid-size U.S. city is producing 500 ADUs per year. The information gathered in this study will help local governments to develop and improve their ADU ordinances and address growing housing needs. HB2054 – Samirah – TOD -- Support We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2054 – Transit-oriented development (TOD) – amendments. TOD is one of the most effective local economic development strategies we have. Think Amazon. Amazon selected the most transit rich location it could find – with 3 Metro stations, Amtrak, commuter rail, and bus. But it’s also the case that TOD locations are much in demand in Norfolk, Richmond, Fairfax, and North Carolina and other parts of the U.S. by the next generation workforce and companies. Marriott moved from an office park to a Metro station. VW is moving from an office park to Reston Metro Station. TOD communities are also great locations for new housing – where transportation costs are minimized. Because of the ease of using transit, walking and biking, and the access to jobs and services, parking can and should be reduced in TODs. Doing so also increases the affordability of housing because a structured parking space can cost $30,000 to $50,000. Not surprisingly builders are looking for flexibility to reduce parking and building costs. Therefore, we support the amendment to the TOD statute passed last year: reducing, modifying, or waiving local parking requirements or ratios. We also support removing the requirement that density be reduced elsewhere. About CSG: The Coalition for Smarter Growth is the leading organization in the D.C. region advocating for walkable, bikeable, inclusive, transit-oriented communities as the most sustainable and equitable way to grow and provide opportunities for all. We are 23-years-old and also work in many other areas of Virginia assisting local groups and officials with sustainable land use, transportation and housing policies.

Chairman Torian and Members of the Committee, AARP Virginia supports HB2053 introduced by Del. Samirah. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are a common-sense solution that allows homeowners more freedom concerning their property and diversifies neighborhoods in terms of housing stock and households. ADUs help address issues relating to helping older homeowners, single parents, young home buyers, and renters seeking a wider range of home, prices, rents, and locations. Furthermore, they provide a convenient living arrangement for family members or other persons to provide care and support for someone in a semi-independent living arrangement while remaining in their community, which is particularly important during health emergencies like the current COVID-19 pandemic. There is a need to assess the construction of internal, attached, and detached accessory dwelling units as a strategy to address the Commonwealth’s growing demand for affordable and market-rate housing. House Bill 2053 brings expert stakeholders, community leaders, and pertinent governmental organizations together to report to the State a clear understanding of the ADU stock in Virginia and how localities could implement ADU ordinances. AARP Virginia urges you to pass HB2053 and looks forward to being named as a member of the advisory group. Respectfully submitted, Natalie Snider AARP Virginia State Advocacy Director

HB2053 – Samirah – ADU study – Support (CSG+PSG+SELC) We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2053 to study the status and potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Virginia. Recently, the City Council of Alexandria Virginia voted 6 to 1 to adopt an ADU ordinance making it easier for homeowners to build backyard cottages and in-home apartments. ADUs have many benefits including providing homes for an aging parent (which is of increased interest given the health challenges in nursing homes), a returning college graduate starting out, or a member of the community looking for a more affordable place to live. ADUs can provide a stream of income to allow a family to afford their home or a retiree to supplement their income. They provide greater diversity and affordability to our housing supply. One mid-size U.S. city is producing 500 ADUs per year. The information gathered in this study will help local governments to develop and improve their ADU ordinances and address growing housing needs.

VCN is fully in support of HB 2053.

We at VCN are in full support of HB 2053.

We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2053 to study the status and potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Virginia. At CSG we have produced a how-to guide for ADUs in DC and are supporting them in Northern Virginia. ADUs have many benefits including providing homes for an aging parent (which is of increased interest given the health challenges in nursing homes), a returning college graduate starting out, or a member of the community looking for a more affordable place to live. ADUs can provide a stream of income to allow a family to afford their home or a retiree to supplement their income. They provide greater diversity and affordability to our housing supply. One mid-size U.S. city is producing 500 ADUs per year. The information gathered in this study will help local governments to develop and improve their ADU ordinances and address growing housing needs.

Mr Chair and members of the Subcommittee, GNDVA hopes you will support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2053 to study the status and potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Virginia. Flexibility in housing makes sense for environmental, lifestyle, and financial reasons. Though many people buy houses and live in them for decades, their actual needs change over time.  But the way that houses are currently built doesn’t reflect those changes, especially the way households may spend decades with just 1 or 2 members.  Many houses are too big for 1- or 2-person households, and size is probably the biggest single factor in the environmental impact of a house. If you have a reasonably sized house, and an even more reasonably sized ADU, you’ve likely got a pretty green combination with some social benefits as well.  You could have your best friend, your mother, or your grown child live with you. This kind of flexibility and informal support could really help as Virginia’s population ages.  Most people want to stay in their homes as they age, but finances and design can be problematic. ADU’s could help aging people meet their needs without moving. Thank you for your consideration.

Chair Bulova and Members of the Committee, AARP Virginia supports House Bill 2053 introduced by Del. Samirah. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are a common-sense solution that allows homeowners more freedom concerning their property and diversifies neighborhoods in terms of housing stock and households. ADUs help address issues relating to helping older homeowners, single parents, young home buyers, and renters seeking a wider range of home, prices, rents, and locations. Furthermore, they provide a convenient living arrangement for family members or other persons to provide care and support for someone in a semi-independent living arrangement while remaining in their community, which is particularly important during health emergencies like the current COVID-19 pandemic. There is a need to assess the construction of internal, attached, and detached accessory dwelling units as a strategy to address the Commonwealth’s growing demand for affordable and market-rate housing. House Bill 2053 brings expert stakeholders, community leaders, and pertinent governmental organizations together to report to the State a clear understanding of the ADU stock in Virginia and how localities could implement ADU ordinances. AARP Virginia urges you to pass HB2053 and looks forward to being named as a member of the advisory group. Respectfully submitted, Natalie Snider AARP Virginia State Advocacy Director

Home Builders Association of Virginia Supports HB 2053

We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2053 to study the status and potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Virginia. The City of Alexandria Council recently voted 6 to 1 to approve ADUs throughout the city, and some other jurisdictions are studying ADUs. ADUs have many benefits including providing homes for an aging parent (which is of increased interest given the health challenges in nursing homes), a returning college graduate starting out, or a member of the community looking for a more affordable place to live. ADUs can provide a stream of income to allow a family to afford their home or a retiree to supplement their income. They provide greater diversity and affordability to our housing supply. One mid-size U.S. city is producing 500 ADUs per year, contributing to meeting urgent housing needs, The information gathered from this state ADU study will help local governments to develop and improve their ADU ordinances and address growing housing needs. Stewart Schwartz, Executive Director, Coalition for Smarter Growth; Sonya Breehey, CSG Northern Virginia Advocacy Manager (resident of Fairfax County).

VCN would like to offer its full support of HB 2053 from Delegate Samirah. Accessory dwelling units are a critical housing option for many Virginians, especially seniors who would like to age in place. A study to investigate how to expand their usage in Virginia in an environmentally conscious way would be a good addition to our state's housing strategy.

The Virginia Conservation Network is in full support of both bills being brought forward today by Delegate Samirah. One of the biggest culprits of climate change is buildings. They create about 40% of the world’s carbon dioxide emissions. Today, the global building floor area is about 2.4 trillion square feet; and this number is expected to double by 2060. This means that for the next 40 years, we’ll be adding the equivalent of another New York City to the planet every 34 days. To stop climate change, the way of building and city planning have to change. Both HB 2052 & HB 2053 can help Virginia begin to change the way it builds to be both more sustainable and affordable. By considering the impacts of climate change in their normal land conservation activities, land trusts can provide strategic investments and effective land management to help reduce the vulnerability of natural areas, working lands, and the human communities that depend on them. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) provide Virginians with more housing options that are typically smaller, more affordable, and closer to family. Launching a statewide stakeholder study is the first step to figuring out how we can better incorporate ADUs into our statewide housing stock to fill in the housing gaps for young couples, seniors who would like to age in place, and many more Virginians in need of safe, accessible shelter.

HB2052 -- Please withdraw our testimony in support. Late breaking information from a local Richmond land trust indicates that not all legal issues have been worked out. HB2053 -- We maintain our support via the comments we submitted a few minutes ago.

HB2052 – Samirah – Land Banks – Support. (CSG + PSG) We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2052 as a critical tool in the effort to revitalize towns, cities, and older suburbs, while increasing the supply of critically needed affordable housing. We support the amendment ensuring that the bill is only applied to tax-delinquent properties if the tax lien on the property exceeds the assessed value of the property. This bill will enable non-profit organizations to acquire for land needed to rehabilitate homes or build new affordable homes for our essential workforce. By removing the cost of land it will help ensure homes are affordable at lower income levels. This bill will also ensure that land and buildings are returned to the tax rolls. This bill is pro-economic development, pro-housing, pro-equity, and pro-smart growth. Thank you. HB2053 – Samirah – ADU study – Support (CSG+PSG+SELC) We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2053 to study the status and potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Virginia. At CSG we have produced a how-to guide for ADUs in DC and are supporting them in Northern Virginia. Alexandria City Council recently voted 6 to 1 to permit ADUs. ADUs have many benefits including providing homes for an aging parent (which is of increased interest given the health challenges in nursing homes), a returning college graduate starting out, or a member of the community looking for a more affordable place to live. ADUs can provide a stream of income to allow a family to afford their home or a retiree to supplement their income. They are pro-property rights and they provide greater diversity and affordability to our housing supply. One mid-size U.S. city is producing 500 ADUs per year. The information gathered in this study will help local governments to develop and improve their ADU ordinances and address growing housing needs. Thank you.

Chair Heretick and Members of the Committee, AARP Virginia supports both HB2052 and HB2053 introduced by Del. Samirah. Land Banks are growing in popularity around the country and here in Virginia. House Bill 2052 provides localities with the option to set up or interact with an established community land bank under the Land Bank Entities Act (§ 8 15.2-7500 et seq.). This measure gives these land trusts the first right of refusal on all tax delinquent properties going to auction and is amended to ensure that the bill is only applied to tax-delinquent properties if the tax lien exceeds the property's assessed value. AARP Virginia urges you to pass HB2052 as it is a good step towards addressing housing needs. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are a common-sense solution that allows homeowners more freedom concerning their property and diversifies neighborhoods in terms of housing stock and households. ADUs help address issues relating to helping older homeowners, single parents, young home buyers, and renters seeking a wider range of home, prices, rents, and locations. Furthermore, they provide a convenient living arrangement for family members or other persons to provide care and support for someone in a semi-independent living arrangement while remaining in their community, which is particularly important during health emergencies like the current COVID-19 pandemic. There is a need to assess the construction of internal, attached, and detached accessory dwelling units as a strategy to address the Commonwealth’s growing demand for affordable and market-rate housing. House Bill 2053 brings expert stakeholders, community leaders, and pertinent governmental organizations together to report to the State a clear understanding of the ADU stock in Virginia and how localities could implement ADU ordinances. AARP Virginia urges you to pass HB2053 and looks forward to being named as a member of the advisory group. Respectfully submitted, Natalie Snider AARP Virginia State Advocacy Director 804-344-3063 nsnider@aarp.org

AARP Virginia supports HB2052, HB2053, and HB2054, presented by Del. Samirah. Land Banks are growing in popularity around the country and here in Virginia. HB2052 provides localities with the option to set up or interact with an established community land bank under the Land Bank Entities Act (§ 8 15.2-7500 et seq.). This measure gives these land trusts the first right of refusal on all tax delinquent properties going to auction. It is a good step towards addressing housing needs. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are a common-sense solution that allows homeowners more freedom concerning their property and diversifies neighborhoods in terms of housing stock and households. ADUs help address issues relating to helping older homeowners, single parents, young home buyers, and renters seeking a wider range of home, prices, rents, and locations. Furthermore, they provide a convenient living arrangement for family members or other persons to provide care and support for someone in a semi-independent living arrangement while remaining in their community, which is particularly important during health emergencies like the current COVID-19 pandemic. There is a need to assess the construction of internal, attached, and detached accessory dwelling units as a strategy to address the Commonwealth’s growing demand for affordable and market-rate housing. HB2053 brings expert stakeholders, community leaders, and pertinent governmental organizations together to report to the State a clear understanding of the ADU stock in Virginia and how localities could implement ADU ordinances. AARP Virginia looks forward to being named as a member of this work group. HB2054 addresses increased city and county planning for transit-oriented development to include limiting parking requirements to encourage public transit use and increased density around our metropolitan areas. It is important to revise parking policies to create walkable, mixed-use communities that support public transportation use, generate revenue, and reduce the cost of housing. These are common-sense options to explore as a state, and we believe that support of these bills would be in the best interest of our Commonwealth's working families. We have shared these comments previously with Del. Kory, Del. Heretick, and Speaker Filler-Corn. Thank you for your consideration of our recommendations. I can be reached at 804-344-3063 or nsnider@aarp.org should you have questions or concerns. Respectfully submitted, Natalie Snider State Advocacy Director AARP Virginia

The Southern Environmental Law Center supports Delegate Samirah’s HB2053, which calls for a study of the status and potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in the Commonwealth. ADUs offer multiple benefits, including providing much-needed diversity of housing stock and households (such as helping to meet the pressing needs of housing for aging parents and providing more affordable places for adult children or other community members to live) and helping to slow the spread of sprawl and the destruction of farmland and natural resources by allowing more housing units within existing neighborhoods. HB2053 provides a path to assessing the value of greater adoption of provisions to allow ADUs, bringing key stakeholders together to develop information on the status and barriers to ADUs in Virginia, as well as potential steps to encourage or require creating more of this housing stock. This is a process well worth pursuing, and SELC urges you to support this bill. Thank you.

HB2052 – Samirah – Land Banks -- Support We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2052 as a critical tool in the effort to revitalize towns, cities, and older suburbs, while increasing the supply of critically needed affordable housing. This bill will enable non-profit organizations to acquire for $1 land needed to rehabilitate homes or build new affordable homes for our essential workforce. By removing the cost of land it will help ensure homes are affordable at lower income levels. This bill will also ensure that land and buildings are returned to the tax rolls. This bill is pro-economic development, pro-housing, pro-equity, and pro-smart growth. Thank you. HB2053 – Samirah – ADU study -- Support We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2053 to study the status and potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Virginia. At CSG we have produced a how-to guide for ADUs in DC and are supporting them in Northern Virginia. ADUs have many benefits including providing homes for an aging parent (which is of increased interest given the health challenges in nursing homes), a returning college graduate starting out, or a member of the community looking for a more affordable place to live. ADUs can provide a stream of income to allow a family to afford their home or a retiree to supplement their income. They provide greater diversity and affordability to our housing supply. One mid-size U.S. city is producing 500 ADUs per year. The information gathered in this study will help local governments to develop and improve their ADU ordinances and address growing housing needs. HB2054 – Samirah – TOD -- Support We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2054 – Transit-oriented development (TOD) – amendments. TOD is one of the most effective local economic development strategies we have. Think Amazon. Amazon selected the most transit rich location it could find – with 3 Metro stations, Amtrak, commuter rail, and bus. But it’s also the case that TOD locations are much in demand in Norfolk, Richmond, Fairfax, and North Carolina and other parts of the U.S. by the next generation workforce and companies. Marriott moved from an office park to a Metro station. VW is moving from an office park to Reston Metro Station. TOD communities are also great locations for new housing – where transportation costs are minimized. Because of the ease of using transit, walking and biking, and the access to jobs and services, parking can and should be reduced in TODs. Doing so also increases the affordability of housing because a structured parking space can cost $30,000 to $50,000. Not surprisingly builders are looking for flexibility to reduce parking and building costs. Therefore, we support the amendment to the TOD statute passed last year: reducing, modifying, or waiving local parking requirements or ratios. We also support removing the requirement that density be reduced elsewhere. The Coalition for Smarter Growth is the leading organization in the D.C. region advocating for walkable, bikeable, inclusive, transit-oriented communities as the most sustainable and equitable way to grow and provide opportunities for all. We are 23-years-old and also work in many other areas of Virginia assisting local groups and officials with sustainable land use, transportation and housing policies.

The Southern Environmental Law Center supports Delegate Samirah’s HB2053, which calls for a study of the status and potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in the Commonwealth. ADUs offer multiple benefits, including providing much-needed diversity of housing stock and households (such as helping to meet the pressing needs of housing for aging parents and providing more affordable places for adult children or other community members to live) and helping to slow the spread of sprawl and the destruction of farmland and natural resources by allowing more housing units within existing neighborhoods. HB2053 provides a path to assessing the value of greater adoption of provisions to allow ADUs, bringing key stakeholders together to develop information on the status and barriers to ADUs in Virginia, as well as potential steps to encourage or require creating more of this housing stock. This is a process well worth pursuing, and SELC urges you to support this bill. Thank you.

HB2052 We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2052 as a critical tool in the effort to revitalize towns, cities, and older suburbs, while increasing the supply of critically needed affordable housing. This bill will enable non-profit organizations to acquire for $1 land needed to rehabilitate homes or build new affordable homes for our essential workforce. By removing the cost of land it will help ensure homes are affordable at lower income levels. This bill will also ensure that land and buildings are returned to the tax rolls. This bill is pro-economic development, pro-housing, pro-equity, and pro-smart growth. HB2053 We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2053 to study the status and potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Virginia. ADUs have many benefits including providing homes for an aging parent (which is of increased interest given the health challenges in nursing homes), a returning college graduate starting out, or a member of the community looking for a more affordable place to live. ADUs can provide a stream of income to allow a family to afford their home or a retiree to supplement their income. They provide greater diversity and affordability to our housing supply. ADUs are an affordable housing solution that strengthens the private market for housing and allows people who may not otherwise be able to afford homes the opportunity to build equity. The information gathered in this study will help local governments to develop and improve their ADU ordinances and address growing housing needs. HB2054 We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2054 – Transit-oriented development (TOD) – amendments. TOD is one of the most effective local economic development strategies we have. Amazon, for example, selected the most transit rich location it could find – with 3 Metro stations, Amtrak, commuter rail, and bus. But it’s also the case that TOD locations are much in demand in Norfolk, Richmond, Fairfax, and North Carolina and other parts of the U.S. by the next generation workforce and companies. TOD communities are also great locations for new housing – where transportation costs are minimized. Because of the ease of using transit, walking and biking, and the access to jobs and services, parking can and should be reduced in TODs. Doing so also increases the affordability of housing because a structured parking space can cost $30,000 to $50,000. Not surprisingly builders are looking for flexibility to reduce parking and building costs. Therefore, we support the amendment to the TOD statute passed last year: reducing, modifying, or waiving local parking requirements or ratios. We also support removing the requirement that density be reduced elsewhere.

HB2052 – Samirah – Land Banks -- Support We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2052 as a critical tool in the effort to revitalize towns, cities, and older suburbs, while increasing the supply of critically needed affordable housing. This bill will enable non-profit organizations to acquire for $1 land needed to rehabilitate homes or build new affordable homes for our essential workforce. By removing the cost of land it will help ensure homes are affordable at lower income levels. This bill will also ensure that land and buildings are returned to the tax rolls. This bill is pro-economic development, pro-housing, pro-equity, and pro-smart growth. Thank you. HB2053 – Samirah – ADU study -- Support We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2053 to study the status and potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Virginia. At CSG we have produced a how-to guide for ADUs in DC and are supporting them in Northern Virginia. ADUs have many benefits including providing homes for an aging parent (which is of increased interest given the health challenges in nursing homes), a returning college graduate starting out, or a member of the community looking for a more affordable place to live. ADUs can provide a stream of income to allow a family to afford their home or a retiree to supplement their income. They provide greater diversity and affordability to our housing supply. One mid-size U.S. city is producing 500 ADUs per year. The information gathered in this study will help local governments to develop and improve their ADU ordinances and address growing housing needs. HB2054 – Samirah – TOD -- Support We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2054 – Transit-oriented development (TOD) – amendments. TOD is one of the most effective local economic development strategies we have. Think Amazon. Amazon selected the most transit rich location it could find – with 3 Metro stations, Amtrak, commuter rail, and bus. But it’s also the case that TOD locations are much in demand in Norfolk, Richmond, Fairfax, and North Carolina and other parts of the U.S. by the next generation workforce and companies. Marriott moved from an office park to a Metro station. VW is moving from an office park to Reston Metro Station. TOD communities are also great locations for new housing – where transportation costs are minimized. Because of the ease of using transit, walking and biking, and the access to jobs and services, parking can and should be reduced in TODs. Doing so also increases the affordability of housing because a structured parking space can cost $30,000 to $50,000. Not surprisingly builders are looking for flexibility to reduce parking and building costs. Therefore, we support the amendment to the TOD statute passed last year: reducing, modifying, or waiving local parking requirements or ratios. We also support removing the requirement that density be reduced elsewhere. About CSG: The Coalition for Smarter Growth is the leading organization in the D.C. region advocating for walkable, bikeable, inclusive, transit-oriented communities as the most sustainable and equitable way to grow and provide opportunities for all. We are 23-years-old and also work in many other areas of Virginia assisting local groups and officials with sustainable land use, transportation and housing policies.

AARP Virginia supports HB2052, HB2053, and HB2054, presented by Del. Samirah. Land Banks are growing in popularity around the country and here in Virginia. HB2052 provides localities with the option to set up or interact with an established community land bank under the Land Bank Entities Act (§ 8 15.2-7500 et seq.). This measure gives these land trusts the first right of refusal on all tax delinquent properties going to auction. It is a good step towards addressing housing needs. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are a common-sense solution that allows homeowners more freedom concerning their property and diversifies neighborhoods in terms of housing stock and households. ADUs help address issues relating to helping older homeowners, single parents, young home buyers, and renters seeking a wider range of home, prices, rents, and locations. Furthermore, they provide a convenient living arrangement for family members or other persons to provide care and support for someone in a semi-independent living arrangement while remaining in their community, which is particularly important during health emergencies like the current COVID-19 pandemic. There is a need to assess the construction of internal, attached, and detached accessory dwelling units as a strategy to address the Commonwealth’s growing demand for affordable and market-rate housing. HB2053 brings expert stakeholders, community leaders, and pertinent governmental organizations together to report to the State a clear understanding of the ADU stock in Virginia and how localities could implement ADU ordinances. AARP Virginia looks forward to being named as a member of this work group. HB2054 addresses increased city and county planning for transit-oriented development to include limiting parking requirements to encourage public transit use and increased density around our metropolitan areas. It is important to revise parking policies to create walkable, mixed-use communities that support public transportation use, generate revenue, and reduce the cost of housing. These are common-sense options to explore as a state, and we believe that support of these bills would be in the best interest of our Commonwealth's working families. We have shared these comments previously with Del. Kory, Del. Heretick, and Speaker Filler-Corn. Thank you for your consideration of our recommendations. I can be reached at 804-344-3063 or nsnider@aarp.org should you have questions or concerns. Respectfully submitted, Natalie Snider State Advocacy Director AARP Virginia

The Southern Environmental Law Center urges you to support HB2054. The General Assembly adopted legislation last year to require larger cities, towns, and counties to consider incorporating strategies to promote TOD as they update their comprehensive plans, recognizing the multiple benefits of transit-oriented development (TOD). Among other things, encouraging TOD and better coordination of transportation and land use planning helps meet the growing needs of Virginia’s residents and businesses for greater travel options, reduce traffic congestion, make public transit a viable option for more people, and reduce transportation emissions of greenhouse gases and other air pollutants. HB2054 builds upon these benefits by augmenting the legislation adopted last session to include consideration of limiting parking requirements to the strategies localities may consider in promoting TOD and coordinated transportation, housing, and land use planning. Parking should be reduced in TOD areas since they reduce the need to drive by fostering the use of transit, walking, and biking. And reducing parking reduces the cost of new development, increasing housing affordability. For all of these reasons, we ask that you vote in favor of HB2054. Thank you.

HB2052 – Samirah – Land Banks -- Support We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2052 as a critical tool in the effort to revitalize towns, cities, and older suburbs, while increasing the supply of critically needed affordable housing. This bill will enable non-profit organizations to acquire for $1 land needed to rehabilitate homes or build new affordable homes for our essential workforce. By removing the cost of land it will help ensure homes are affordable at lower income levels. This bill will also ensure that land and buildings are returned to the tax rolls. This bill is pro-economic development, pro-housing, pro-equity, and pro-smart growth. Thank you. HB2053 – Samirah – ADU study -- Support We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2053 to study the status and potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Virginia. At CSG we have produced a how-to guide for ADUs in DC and are supporting them in Northern Virginia. ADUs have many benefits including providing homes for an aging parent (which is of increased interest given the health challenges in nursing homes), a returning college graduate starting out, or a member of the community looking for a more affordable place to live. ADUs can provide a stream of income to allow a family to afford their home or a retiree to supplement their income. They provide greater diversity and affordability to our housing supply. One mid-size U.S. city is producing 500 ADUs per year. The information gathered in this study will help local governments to develop and improve their ADU ordinances and address growing housing needs. HB2054 – Samirah – TOD -- Support We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2054 – Transit-oriented development (TOD) – amendments. TOD is one of the most effective local economic development strategies we have. Think Amazon. Amazon selected the most transit rich location it could find – with 3 Metro stations, Amtrak, commuter rail, and bus. But it’s also the case that TOD locations are much in demand in Norfolk, Richmond, Fairfax, and North Carolina and other parts of the U.S. by the next generation workforce and companies. Marriott moved from an office park to a Metro station. VW is moving from an office park to Reston Metro Station. TOD communities are also great locations for new housing – where transportation costs are minimized. Because of the ease of using transit, walking and biking, and the access to jobs and services, parking can and should be reduced in TODs. Doing so also increases the affordability of housing because a structured parking space can cost $30,000 to $50,000. Not surprisingly builders are looking for flexibility to reduce parking and building costs. Therefore, we support the amendment to the TOD statute passed last year: reducing, modifying, or waiving local parking requirements or ratios. We also support removing the requirement that density be reduced elsewhere. The Coalition for Smarter Growth is the leading organization in the D.C. region advocating for walkable, bikeable, inclusive, transit-oriented communities as the most sustainable and equitable way to grow and provide opportunities for all. We are 23-years-old and also work in many other areas of Virginia assisting local groups and officials with sustainable land use, transportation and housing policies.

Recognizing the multiple benefits of transit-oriented development (TOD), the General Assembly adopted legislation last year to require larger cities, towns, and counties to consider incorporating strategies to promote TOD as they update their comprehensive plans. Among other things, encouraging TOD and better coordination of transportation and land use planning helps meet the growing needs of Virginia’s residents and businesses for greater travel options, reduce traffic congestion, make public transit a viable option for more people, and reduce transportation emissions of greenhouse gases and other air pollutants. HB2054 builds upon these benefits by augmenting the legislation adopted last session to include consideration of limiting parking requirements as one of the strategies localities may consider in promoting TOD. Parking should be reduced in TOD areas since they reduce the need to drive by fostering the use of transit, walking, and biking. And reducing parking reduces the cost of new development, increasing housing affordability. For all of these reasons, the Southern Environmental Law Center urges you to support HB 2054. Thank you.

HB2052 We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2052 as a critical tool in the effort to revitalize towns, cities, and older suburbs, while increasing the supply of critically needed affordable housing. This bill will enable non-profit organizations to acquire for $1 land needed to rehabilitate homes or build new affordable homes for our essential workforce. By removing the cost of land it will help ensure homes are affordable at lower income levels. This bill will also ensure that land and buildings are returned to the tax rolls. This bill is pro-economic development, pro-housing, pro-equity, and pro-smart growth. HB2053 We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2053 to study the status and potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Virginia. ADUs have many benefits including providing homes for an aging parent (which is of increased interest given the health challenges in nursing homes), a returning college graduate starting out, or a member of the community looking for a more affordable place to live. ADUs can provide a stream of income to allow a family to afford their home or a retiree to supplement their income. They provide greater diversity and affordability to our housing supply. ADUs are an affordable housing solution that strengthens the private market for housing and allows people who may not otherwise be able to afford homes the opportunity to build equity. The information gathered in this study will help local governments to develop and improve their ADU ordinances and address growing housing needs. HB2054 We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2054 – Transit-oriented development (TOD) – amendments. TOD is one of the most effective local economic development strategies we have. Amazon, for example, selected the most transit rich location it could find – with 3 Metro stations, Amtrak, commuter rail, and bus. But it’s also the case that TOD locations are much in demand in Norfolk, Richmond, Fairfax, and North Carolina and other parts of the U.S. by the next generation workforce and companies. TOD communities are also great locations for new housing – where transportation costs are minimized. Because of the ease of using transit, walking and biking, and the access to jobs and services, parking can and should be reduced in TODs. Doing so also increases the affordability of housing because a structured parking space can cost $30,000 to $50,000. Not surprisingly builders are looking for flexibility to reduce parking and building costs. Therefore, we support the amendment to the TOD statute passed last year: reducing, modifying, or waiving local parking requirements or ratios. We also support removing the requirement that density be reduced elsewhere.

HB2052 – Samirah – Land Banks -- Support We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2052 as a critical tool in the effort to revitalize towns, cities, and older suburbs, while increasing the supply of critically needed affordable housing. This bill will enable non-profit organizations to acquire for $1 land needed to rehabilitate homes or build new affordable homes for our essential workforce. By removing the cost of land it will help ensure homes are affordable at lower income levels. This bill will also ensure that land and buildings are returned to the tax rolls. This bill is pro-economic development, pro-housing, pro-equity, and pro-smart growth. Thank you. HB2053 – Samirah – ADU study -- Support We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2053 to study the status and potential for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in Virginia. At CSG we have produced a how-to guide for ADUs in DC and are supporting them in Northern Virginia. ADUs have many benefits including providing homes for an aging parent (which is of increased interest given the health challenges in nursing homes), a returning college graduate starting out, or a member of the community looking for a more affordable place to live. ADUs can provide a stream of income to allow a family to afford their home or a retiree to supplement their income. They provide greater diversity and affordability to our housing supply. One mid-size U.S. city is producing 500 ADUs per year. The information gathered in this study will help local governments to develop and improve their ADU ordinances and address growing housing needs. HB2054 – Samirah – TOD -- Support We strongly support Delegate Samirah’s bill HB2054 – Transit-oriented development (TOD) – amendments. TOD is one of the most effective local economic development strategies we have. Think Amazon. Amazon selected the most transit rich location it could find – with 3 Metro stations, Amtrak, commuter rail, and bus. But it’s also the case that TOD locations are much in demand in Norfolk, Richmond, Fairfax, and North Carolina and other parts of the U.S. by the next generation workforce and companies. Marriott moved from an office park to a Metro station. VW is moving from an office park to Reston Metro Station. TOD communities are also great locations for new housing – where transportation costs are minimized. Because of the ease of using transit, walking and biking, and the access to jobs and services, parking can and should be reduced in TODs. Doing so also increases the affordability of housing because a structured parking space can cost $30,000 to $50,000. Not surprisingly builders are looking for flexibility to reduce parking and building costs. Therefore, we support the amendment to the TOD statute passed last year: reducing, modifying, or waiving local parking requirements or ratios. We also support removing the requirement that density be reduced elsewhere. About CSG: The Coalition for Smarter Growth is the leading organization in the D.C. region advocating for walkable, bikeable, inclusive, transit-oriented communities as the most sustainable and equitable way to grow and provide opportunities for all. We are 23-years-old and also work in many other areas of Virginia assisting local groups and officials with sustainable land use, transportation and housing policies.

Del. Wampler asked me to be available for questions, if needed.

I am for this bill. Thank you.

We support HB 2114 and appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with VACO on a commonsense solution.

The Virginia Association of Counties supports HB 2042 and HB 2114.

To House Counties, Cities and Towns Members, My name is Rachael Estes and I am the Senior Government Affairs Manager for Apex Clean Energy. I am writing to express our support for HB 2201, introduced by Delegate Jerrauld Jones. Apex Clean Energy is a renewable energy company that develops, constructs, and operates wind and solar power facilities across North America. We are based in Charlottesville, VA and employee over 200 renewable energy experts. We have over 1GW of projects in development in Virginia alone, including the first ever onshore wind project, Rocky Forge. HB2201 would provide both industry and localities much needed clarity, as well as, a new tool for negotiating business terms and conditions for approval of battery storage projects. HB2201 would also allow hybrid solar+storage projects to negotiate business terms under a single document, thus streamlining the process for localities. Furthermore, allowing the siting agreement to apply to any project in Virginia, regardless of geographic location, will promote broader utilization of a powerful and effective tool for negotiating economic benefits within localities for renewable energy projects. With the passage of the VCEA last year, Virginia now has some of the most ambitious clean energy goals in the country. As a renewable energy developer based in Virginia, we are eager to help the Commonwealth meet its goals. HB2201 modifications to the siting agreements will not only help streamline the process, but also open more opportunities for localities and developers to work together to help accelerate the shift to clean energy for the Commonwealth. We strongly support HB2201 and ask that you vote “yes”. Thank you, Rachael Estes Senior Government Affairs Manager Apex Clean Energy Inc.

Virginia AEE OPPOSES HB. 2023. This legislation unfairly singles out solar and wind generation facilities for additional scrutiny in land use considerations, ignoring other potential types of land use, such as residential and commercial development. We urge the Subcommittee to reject this bill. Virginia AEE SUPPORTS the passage of HB 2201. This beneficial legislation expands the opportunity for localities and renewable and energy storage developers to enter into siting agreements, facilitating the development of these clean projects and ensuring localities can secure specific, tangle benefits through such developments. We urge the Subcommittee to pass this legislation.

To House Counties Cities and Towns- Land Use Subcommittee, My name is Rachael Estes and I am the Senior Government Affairs Manager for Apex Clean Energy. I am writing to express our support for HB 2201, introduced by Delegate Jerrauld Jones. Apex Clean Energy is a renewable energy company that develops, constructs, and operates wind and solar power facilities across North America. We are based in Charlottesville, VA and employee over 200 renewable energy experts. We have over 1GW of projects in development in Virginia alone, including the first ever onshore wind project, Rocky Forge. HB2201 would provide both industry and localities much needed clarity, as well as, a new tool for negotiating business terms and conditions for approval of battery storage projects. HB2201 would also allow hybrid solar+storage projects to negotiate business terms under a single document, thus streamlining the process for localities. Furthermore, allowing the siting agreement to apply to any project in Virginia, regardless of geographic location, will promote broader utilization of a powerful and effective tool for negotiating economic benefits within localities for renewable energy projects. With the passage of the VCEA last year, Virginia now has some of the most ambitious clean energy goals in the country. As a renewable energy developer based in Virginia, we are eager to help the Commonwealth meet its goals. HB2201 modifications to the siting agreements will not only help streamline the process, but also open more opportunities for localities and developers to work together to help accelerate the shift to clean energy for the Commonwealth. We strongly support HB2201 and ask that you vote “yes”. Thank you, Rachael Estes Senior Government Affairs Manager Apex Clean Energy Inc.

Del. Wampler asked me to be available for questions, if needed.