Federal regulators have cleared two national banks to develop office and hotel properties -- actions long barred by the Treasury Department. What does this imply for the development environment?
"The question is whether these two projects suggest that federal regulators will make it easier for banks to compete directly with developers. Regulators have traditionally limited banks from owning and developing commercial properties since a sudden decline in the real estate market could put bank capital at risk, especially if the bank acts as both the owner and developer of a project.
...Real estate attorney Russell Bershad is also puzzled at why any bank would want to enter the development fray, and he sees some important differences between bankers and developers. "Developers are so nimble and non-bureaucratic, not to mention willing to take risks," says Bershad, chairman of the real estate department at Newark, N.J.-based Gibbons DelDeo."
FULL STORY: One Tall Order: Banks As Developers

Trump Administration Could Effectively End Housing Voucher Program
Federal officials are eyeing major cuts to the Section 8 program that helps millions of low-income households pay rent.

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Ken Jennings Launches Transit Web Series
The Jeopardy champ wants you to ride public transit.

Washington Legislature Passes Rent Increase Cap
A bill that caps rent increases at 7 percent plus inflation is headed to the governor’s desk.

From Planning to Action: How LA County Is Rethinking Climate Resilience
Chief Sustainability Officer Rita Kampalath outlines the County’s shift from planning to implementation in its climate resilience efforts, emphasizing cross-departmental coordination, updated recovery strategies, and the need for flexible funding.

New Mexico Aging Department Commits to Helping Seniors Age ‘In Place’ and ‘Autonomously’ in New Draft Plan
As New Mexico’s population of seniors continues to grow, the state’s aging department is proposing expanded initiatives to help seniors maintain their autonomy while also supporting family caregivers.
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