Subcommittee carries HB 143 over to 2027 for further stakeholder work on surplus land for affordable housing

Delegate Gardner presented HB 143, saying Virginia faces a shortage of approximately 100,200 housing units and that the bill would require the Department of General Services (DGS) and the Virginia Housing Development Authority (VHDA) to determine whether surplus state property is suitable for development of affordable housing and, where suitable, offer those parcels exclusively to eligible organizations for at least 180 days with a recorded 30-year affordability covenant.

Members questioned how DGS and VHDA would determine the highest and best use of property when market forces favor commercial use; Delegate Wiley asked whether appraisals or market experts would be used. A witness (Mr. Clark) and others explained the bill focuses on site suitability and feasibility and includes vetting of qualified affordable-housing developers to protect public interest while expanding housing supply.

The sponsor said he would welcome continued stakeholder work and requested the subcommittee give the bill additional time; the subcommittee voted to carry HB 143 to 2027 with a letter to the annual public body procurement work group so stakeholders could further refine the bill. The motion passed by voice vote.