Local cities and states see rising property values as a way to cut budget gaps by increasing developer fees.
"With many states nearing the end of their rope over budget shortfalls,they're increasingly eyeing real estate as a huge potential source ofrevenue... So now, more states are trying to slip in tax increases on bothcommercialand residential real-estate transactions. And more local jurisdictions,contending with their own state cutbacks, are increasing property taxesand slapping on things like real-estate development-related fees." [Editor's note: The full text of this article is only available to Wall Street Journal subscribers.]
Thanks to PreservingtheAmericanDream Listserv
FULL STORY: Real-Estate Taxes, Fees Are on the Rise

Florida Considers Legalizing ADUs
Current state law allows — but doesn’t require — cities to permit accessory dwelling units in single-family residential neighborhoods.

San Diego to Rescind Multi-Unit ADU Rule
The city wants to close a loophole that allowed developers to build apartment buildings on single-family lots as ADUs.

HUD Announces Plan to Build Housing on Public Lands
The agency will identify federally owned parcels appropriate for housing development and streamline the regulatory process to lease or transfer land to housing authorities and nonprofit developers.

Surf’s Upcycling: Hawai‘i’s Latest Green Building Material is Recycled Surf Boards
“Surf Blocks” are fire-resistant, termite-proof, and close the loop on mountains of waste from the state’s beloved sport.

Building Age-Friendly Homes
Designing for the unique needs of elderly people can help them maintain social connections and mental acuity.

Nightlife and the 15-Minute City
Plans for compact, walkable cities often don’t address nighttime concerns like transportation and lighting, which can make neighborhoods more vibrant and safe around the clock.
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