New state laws adopted in 2023 are just beginning to be implemented that will transform the housing landscape in our region and state. HB 1110 and HB 1337 will expand housing options by allowing for more “middle housing” and making it easier to build accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in areas traditionally dedicated to single-family homes.
Join us for this learn-at-lunch style program designed to help MBAKS members navigate the coming changes related to middle housing and ADUs in our two counties.
Attendees can expect to learn:
• Practical tips for how to follow the changes at the local level;
• Useful information for builders, remodelers, architects, and other industry professionals as they prepare for and adapt to code changes; and
• How to engage with local jurisdictions in this work.
Following brief presentations from our panel, members of MBAKS’ government affairs team will join panelists for a Q&A session and open conversation on the work ahead to implement middle housing.
About Our Panel
Ryan Gillis
Founder and CEO, Gillis Real EstateRyan Gillis is the Founder and CEO of Gillis Real Estate in conjunction with being a Managing Partner of Liberty Investments. He has over 17 years of hands-on experience in construction, development, and real estate. Ryan received his education in Commercial Real Estate and Development from the University of Washington, Construction Management from Edmonds Community College, and a Technical Arts Degree in Carpentry from Renton Technical College. As a born and raised Pacific Northwesterner, his vast and unique experience and knowledge set him apart from others in the market.
Lilith Vespier
Infill Housing Manager, Washington State Department of CommerceLilith Vespier, AICP, joined Washington State Department of Commerce August 2024, as the Infill Housing Manager within the Local Government Division. She earned her AICP membership in 2010. Lilith has worked in the private planning practice, county government, city government and now state government. Throughout her planning career she has focused on community (long-range) planning with the goal of empowering people and communities. Over the previous five years working at the City of Leavenworth, her work has primarily focused on developing tools and strategies for diversifying and increasing housing options.
Adam Weinstein
Director of Planning & Building, City of Kirkland
Adam Weinstein is the Director of Planning & Building for the City of Kirkland, WA, where he oversees long-range planning, sustainability, urban forestry, code enforcement, and all aspects of permitting. Prior to his current position, Adam managed the Planning Division for the City of Pleasanton, CA, and was a Berkeley- and Seattle-based Principal at LSA Associates, a small urban planning consulting firm. He has a BS in Landscape Architecture from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a Master of City Planning from the University of California-Berkeley. Adam lives in Seattle with his wife, two young children, and an Accessory Dwelling Unit.
This event is open to MBAKS members only. If you're a non-member and wish to attend, please contact membership@mbaks.com