Submitted by Barb Lally for Thurston County Realtors
Nearly 50 Thurston County Realtors met with state Sen. Karen Fraser and Rep. Chris Reykdal recently to discuss the group’s legislative priorities for the 2016 legislative session, something they have done annually for about 25 years. The visit was scheduled during the Washington Association of Realtors’ annual Legislative Day in Olympia, attended by more than 400 Realtors from around the state.
The discussions with the area’s state legislators centered around the residential and commercial real estate markets and their role in boosting economic recovery and protecting property owners. Of chief concern for Thurston Realtors is the county’s low housing inventory and the availability of affordable housing choices to meet a growing demand in our area. The group also discussed land use and environmental regulations that directly affect housing supply and the effect that increased taxes on the sale of property would have on the markets and the local economy.
“Our legislators are grateful for the input Realtors give,” said Jim Bennett, owner of REMAX Parkside in Tumwater, who has been a Realtor for 37 years and attends the large event each year. “Realtors are the leading advocates for property owners and those who desire to be, and are committed to protecting the American Dream. Who else represent home owners in Olympia?”
Sen. Karen Fraser expressed why she schedules the meeting with the local group annually.
“I have met with Realtors almost every year I have served in Olympia,” Sen. Fraser said. “They have a great read on what is good for our communities. They care about our economy and our quality of life and help me understand what is going on in their important business sector. They are helping our families reach their dream of ownership every day and they understand their challenges. I appreciate the input I receive from these committed advocates.”
The Thurston Realtors also attended a reception for U.S. Congress member from the 10th district, Denny Heck and visited with Washington Secretary of State Kim Wyman at her office at the state Capitol as part of the day’s activities. Both state leaders are local residents and have worked closely with the group for years to help improve our communities.
The Thurston County REALTORS® Association’s nearly 600 REALTOR® members provide professional real estate services to buyers and sellers and have been committed to protecting property owners’ rights, contributing to our communities and preserving our quality of life in Thurston County for more than 90 years.
