The Platte County Commission is joining forces with the Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City in a resolution approved Monday.
According to commissioners, the move will address escalating housing costs and regulatory hurdles stifling growth in the Kansas City area. The resolution was approved unanimously at the regular administrative session, tying the county to the HBA’s Let Builders Build campaign, which, as stated in a press release issued by the county Monday, aims to dismantle excessive red tape, streamline permitting processes, and promote policies that empower builders to deliver more affordable housing options.
“The resolution highlights the stark contrast between Platte County’s efficient, builder-friendly environment and the burdensome regulations plaguing Kansas City, Missouri,” the release states. “Approximately half of Platte County’s population lives within Kansas City limits, yet the city’s overly complex policies – including permitting delays, inconsistent building codes, stringent environmental mandates, high utility fees, and unnecessary material requirements – are inflating construction costs by up to 20 percent for essential projects like single-family homes, apartments, schools and commercial developments.”
The Kansas City HBA launched the Let Builders Build campaign over the summer, seeking to “break down barriers to affordable housing in Kansas City.” According to the HBA, 65 percent of local residents say housing costs are too high and 62 percent say there it too little affordable housing for middle class families. Less than 20 percent have a favorable opinion of the way government has handled housing policy. Additionally, the HBA states that 65 percent of residents have a favorable opinion of builders.
“These barriers aren’t just paperwork - they’re locking out young families from home ownership, forcing schools to pass higher taxes onto taxpayers, and driving businesses to look elsewhere for expansion,” said Platte County Presiding Commissioner Scott Fricker. “Platte County has proven that streamlined processes and reasonable codes can balance safety, affordability, and community growth. We’re proud to stand with the HBA in calling for similar reforms across the region to build stronger, more vibrant communities.”
The Let Builders Build campaign seeks to modernize housing policies through collaboration among policymakers, stakeholders and local communities, according to the commission’s statement.
By reducing unnecessary regulations and fostering efficient construction solutions, the effort promises to boost home ownership rates, support economic stability, and ensure Platte County – and the broader Kansas City region – remains a desirable place to live, work and raise a family.
Commissioners also touted the county’s own track record.
“Its streamlined building permit process and balanced code have enabled builders to deliver quality, safe homes efficiently, serving as a model for regional reform,” the release states.
More information on the HBA’s campaign at letbuildersbuildkc.com.