Photo: Let’s Go Washington Founder Brian Heywood talks about ballot initiatives during a press conference at Jackson’s Shell Station in Kent on Tuesday, Nov. 21, 2023. (Jason Redmond for Crosscut)

Advocacy Happy Hour

Save the date for Tuesday, September 24th! Join us for a casual opportunity to connect with other chapter members who are interested in or engaging in efforts to impact policy on a variety of built environment topics. Whether you have been a long-time advocate or want to learn more about how you can get involved, stay tuned for more information in the weeks ahead.

City of Seattle Energy Code

The City of Seattle Construction Codes Advisory Board (CCAB) passed a proposed code in their June 20th meeting that upheld the 2018 City Seattle standards, keeps the city of Seattle in line with the state standard timeline, but pulls back a bit on the pace of changes originally planned for implementation in 2021 code revisions. The proposed changes maintain elements of the Building Emissions Performance Standard Policy (BEPS) that AIA Seattle had advocated for through our coalition work with Shift Zero. AIA Seattle’s Public Policy Board is tracking possible developments for the potential code changes and will continue to communicate with members.

City of Seattle Comprehensive Plan

In July, AIA Seattle members met with staff from the Office of Planning and Community Development (OPCD) to learn more about how the Draft One Seattle Plan and Draft Environmental Impact Statement will be moving forward. Based on the timeline shared by OPCD staff, AIA Seattle’s Comp Plan Work Group will be reconvening in September to re-engage and plan for possible October advocacy activites. Read AIA Seattle’s recommendations for a livable city with more complete neighborhoods and abundant housing.

NO on I-2117

AIA Seattle supports the NO on I-2117 Campaign, one of a series of initiatives that will appear on the Washington State ballot in November 2024. I-2117 would revoke the 2021 Climate Commitment Act. AIA Seattle members are encouraged to stand with AIA Washington Council and AIA Seattle and take a pledge to vote NO on I-2117.

We’d love to hear from you! For more information on advocacy topics, please contact:

Melissa K. Neher | Executive Director, AIA Seattle

Photo: Attendees at AIA Seattle’s 2024 Housing Forum – Housing: A Stage for Life

Housing Forum

Advocacy came to life in person at Monday’s Housing: A Stage for Life learning and networking forum at 415 Westlake. Highlights included innovative project case studies, community perspectives, and inspiring designs that foreground users while addressing actionable solutions to develop more plentiful, quality, diverse, and sustainable housing options in Seattle and beyond. The program closed out with an inspiring keynote by Kevin Daly, A Holistic Approach to Housing, followed by a networking happy hour on-site. If you missed the event, stay tuned for information about the recordings available for learning units in the months ahead.  

Increase AIA Seattle’s advocacy impact in 10 Counties! Call for AIA Seattle Public Policy Board Members

AIA Seattle’s Public Policy Board (PPB) is an energizing and active space for leadership for the advocacy priorities of AIA Seattle, including design issues related to the built environment and the business of architecture. In recent years, AIA Seattle Public Policy Board members have engaged on topics such as design review, tree ordinances, the One Seattle Comprehensive Plan, and policies which impact housing density.  

The Public Policy Board is seeking members to serve on the PPB who will bring their experience, expertise, and 10-county membership perspective to the steering committee. Individuals who are currently engaged in advocacy efforts outside the City of Seattle are strongly encouraged to apply to serve on the PPB. The nomination deadline is Monday July 15th. The commitment to serve on the PPB begins in the fall of 2024. Learn more about the PPB and nominate yourself or another member.

Help Shape the Chapter – Vote for your Board of Director Nominees

AIA Seattle Member Advancement Committee is pleased to present  this slate of accomplished members to fill open seats or move to officer positions on our Board of Directors beginning September 1, 2024. Our committee members solicited board nominations from the membership in January and believe this slate of nominees possess the skills and commitment to move AIA Seattle forward.

City of Seattle Comprehensive Plan 

The comment period for the Draft One Seattle Plan and Draft Environmental Impact Statement has completed. AIA Seattle submitted comments highlighting enhancements to the Plan that would support a livable city with more complete neighborhoods and abundant housing here. AIA Seattle’s advocacy work continues this fall and winter as the city begins to study zoning revisions and the City Council works to finalize the One Seattle Plan.  

AIA Seattle has also begun one-on-one engagement with new Councilmembers to continue the organization’s strong advocacy relationship with the Seattle City Council. AIA Seattle has established itself as a resource on policy related to the urban built environment and housing.  

NO on I-2117 

AIA Seattle supports the NO on I-2117 Campaign, one of a series of initiatives that will appear on the Washington State ballot in November of 2024. I-2117 would revoke the 2021 Climate Commitment Act. 

I-2117 would allow more pollution across Washington, devastate funding for programs to protect our air, water, and land, and cut investments in transportation. It would mean cuts to programs that restore and protect rivers, lakes, and streams, programs that help make forests more resilient to wildfires, and programs that protect fish habitat. It would cause billions in cuts to the state transportation budget that funds road and bridge projects, ferries and transit across the state. And it shifts the burden of paying for the impacts of pollution to communities, workers, and families. 

AIA Seattle members are encouraged to stand with AIA Washington Council and AIA Seattle and take a pledge to vote NO on I-2117. 

Design Review

State legislation HB 1293 mandates objective design standards and will require municipalities in AIA Seattle’s 10 county membership area to reconsider the administrative process of design review. AIA Seattle is looking for opportunities for members to give input with their local municipal structures for how design review processes can optimize flexibility and predictability, leverage community input, and deliver projects that serve owner and jurisdiction goals for development. 

For decades, AIA Seattle has been advocating for the City of Seattle to streamline the design review process. AIA Seattle has supported Design Review exemptions for affordable housing and continues to press for transformative and transactional change in Design Review, most recently in a meeting with Marco Lowe, City of Seattle COO and his staff. 

For decades, AIA Seattle has been advocating for the City of Seattle to streamline the design review process. AIA Seattle has supported Design Review exemptions for affordable housing and continues to press for transformative and transactional change in Design Review, most recently in a meeting with Marco Lowe, City of Seattle COO and his staff. 

Local Energy Code 

AIA Seattle is a member of the Shift Zero coalition, currently pressuring the City of Seattle’s Mayor’s office, Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections and the Construction Codes Advisory Board to maintain Seattle 2021 Energy Code amendments. AIA Seattle will continue to support progress made at the state and local level on clean energy codes and policies and will keep members updated on opportunities to get active in the weeks ahead! 

We’d love to hear from you! For more information on advocacy topics, please contact:

Melissa K. Neher | Executive Director, AIA Seattle

Photo: AIA Seattle Staff and Board Members at the 2023 Housing Forum. 

City of Seattle Comp Plan Engagement Period Extended

The City of Seattle has extended the public engagement period for the Draft One Seattle Plan and Draft Environmental Impact Statement to May 20th. Get engaged and drop your comments, give a thumbs up or down to others’ comments, and advocate for a livable City in the engagement hub.

AIA Seattle shared recommendations for a livable City in a letter to Mayor Harrell, Councilmembers, and City Staff. Members are encouraged to use AIA Seattle’s recommendations to get active in the engagement hub!

AIA Seattle also signed on to the Complete Communities Coalition Letter to advocate for a bolder Comprehensive Plan. The Complete Communities Coalition is dedicated to fostering an affordable, equitable, and sustainable Seattle.

Do you have a Multi- Family Housing Project to Share?

The City of Seattle Mayor’s Staff is looking to our members to learn more about your work on market rate and affordable multi-family housing projects. They would like to hear from you to better understand the project process from start to finish. If you have a project you’d like to share, contact City of Seattle staff directly: karin.eastby@seattle.gov and caia.caldwell@seattle.gov

Learning and Connection Opportunity: AIA Seattle’s Housing Forum

Housing: A Stage for Life seeks to respond to the evolving housing landscape and explore how housing can center specific community needs and support people through various life stages. This year’s program will spotlight policy interventions, innovative project case studies, community perspectives, and inspiring designs that foreground users while addressing actionable solutions to develop more plentiful, quality, diverse, and sustainable housing options in Seattle and beyond.

Join us for Housing: A Stage for Life on Monday, June 17, 2024, at 415 Westlake in Seattle (8 LU/HSW).

We’d love to hear from you! For more information on advocacy topics, please contact:

Melissa K. Neher | Executive Director, AIA Seattle

Seattle News

AIA Seattle Members – Get Active for a Livable City

AIA Seattle members envisions the City of Seattle as a livable city with a variety of housing near many types of amenities, retail cores, and transit that appeals to and is accessible to everyone, where everything residents need can be reached within 15 minutes by walking, rolling, or public transit.

AIA Seattle members have a valued voice in our city’s future, and they can get active now to impact the evolution of both the One Seattle Draft Comprehensive Plan and the Draft Environmental Impact Statement. Members have expressed great disappointment in the lack of vision and limited pathways for growth in the current draft versions of these plans. It’s time to make sure we come together to move the needle in the direction of the 15-minute city!

Here’s How to Advocate for a Livable City of Seattle

Your voice matters, and whether you have just a few minutes, or a few hours, you can take action to express to elected officials and municipal staff the urgent need for a livable city. Share information to help your colleagues get active! You can use AIA Seattle’s Talking Points as a tool to support your engagement.

Attend an upcoming Open House in the next few days
Join an Open House event for the City of Seattle’s Draft Comprehensive Plan to advocate for livable communities. Join a pre-open house coffee organized by our fellow advocates with Complete Communities Coalition to meet like-minded folks and attend the Open House together!

Share written comments in OPCD’s Engagement Hub before May 6th
The format for OPCD collecting comments through the hub is not straightforward. Stay with it! You can place comments in specific areas of the plan, and read and comment on the comments other folks make. You will first be required to share some information about yourself and then can engage most easily by choosing ‘elements’ from the plan.

Reach out to your City Council Representative or the Mayor’s Office.
You can find City Council email addresses and send a message to the Mayor or his team.

Repost calls to action to encourage your colleagues to get active!
Share posts from AIA Seattle’s LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook

AIA Seattle Draft Comp Plan and Draft EIS Positions Developed from Member Input

Thanks to the dozens of AIA Seattle members who engaged in the April 2nd Charrette for the One Seattle Draft Comprehensive Plan offered by the Urban Design Forum and AIA Seattle Comprehensive Plan Workgroup. The charrette was an engaging opportunity to identify areas of alignment and recommendations for improvement in the draft plan and Draft Environmental Impact Statement.

Supreme Court Heard Case Monday with Implications for People Experiencing Homelessness

On Monday, the Supreme Court heard arguments that will determine how people experiencing homelessness are treated under local laws. The case, City of Grants Pass, Oregon v. Johnson, will significantly impact whether cities can criminalize people sleeping outside and what actions cities can take under the Eighth Amendment, which protects individuals from status-based crimes.

The AIA Seattle Committee on Homelessness shared concerns about this case in a February letter to the City of Seattle’s City Attorney, Mayor, and City Council and urged the city to focus on solutions to our community’s urgent housing crisis rather than disregard the rights of people experiencing homelessness. AIA Seattle believes the City should adopt a comprehensive plan that reevaluates Seattle’s growth strategy to end exclusionary zoning and add housing capacity everywhere; speeds up housing production by addressing process bottlenecks and supporting more housing types; and addresses city design challenges by lessening code requirements which prohibit development.

The Supreme Court’s decision will most likely be delivered in June.

We’d love to hear from you! For more information on advocacy topics, please contact:

Melissa K. Neher | Executive Director, AIA Seattle

Seattle News

Draft Comprehensive Plan Released

After months of anticipation, the draft One Seattle Comprehensive Plan has finally arrived! This Comprehensive Plan update for Seattle marks a critical milestone in shaping the city’s future growth over the next 20 years, addressing key questions around equitable opportunity, neighborhood design, and sustainability. According to the Mayor’s office and the Office of Planning and Community Development (OPCD), the One Seattle Comprehensive Plan comprises Four Key Moves:

• Housing and Affordability: Expand housing opportunities across the city
• Equity and Opportunity: Promote a more equitable Seattle as we grow
• Community and Neighborhoods: Focus growth and investment in walkable communities
• Climate and Sustainability: Meet  challenges of climate change for a resilient future

The release date of March 5th marked the beginning of a two-month (60-day) public engagement period. AIA Seattle’s Comp Plan Work Group has been diligently preparing for the Plan’s release by creating a detailed framework for their work and response during the public comment period. The group looks forward to engaging with the membership over the next two months to inform their response.

Urban Design Forum to Host Charrette to Guide City’s Growth

As part of this crucial endeavor, Urban Design Forum will host a charrette to support the Comp Plan Work Group in activating member engagement. This exciting opportunity will allow participants to imagine the possibilities and inform how the group should respond during the public comment period.

• When: April 2nd, 4:00-6:15 PM
• Where: Center for Architecture and Design, 1010 Western Ave
• More information will follow

State News

2024 Legislative Session Wraps: AIA Washington Celebrates Wins on Licensure, Sustainability, Housing Affordability

The 2024 Washington State legislative session has been a huge success for AIAWA and its advocacy priorities. Despite being a short 60-day sprint, this fast-paced session saw the passage of several bills that AIAWA championed tirelessly. We extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who contributed their time, expertise, and unwavering support to AIAWA’s legislative agenda this year.

A critical achievement is the passage of HB 1880, which eliminates the rolling clock in state statute for licensure. After significant efforts by AIAWA, this bill secured unanimous support from both legislative chambers and now awaits Governor Inslee’s signature. The passage of this bill this session will break down barriers, provide flexibility, and ensure a more inclusive path to licensure. The removal of the rolling clock will take effect July 1, 2024.

Another milestone is the passage of HB 1282, the Buy Clean and Buy Fair legislation, promoting sustainable and ethical construction practices. This bill mandates transparency and accountability for building materials used in major state-funded projects by requiring firms to report Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), Health Product Declarations, working conditions, and other data. It also directs the Department of Commerce to develop a public database for this information and establishes the “Buy Clean Buy Fair” workgroup.

Additionally, AIAWA secured an important budget proviso in the Operating Budget, allocating $250,000 to the State Building Code Council to study embodied carbon language in other jurisdictions’ building codes and provide recommendations for potential adoption by December 1, 2024.

While the Navigator (HB 1391) did not advance, AIAWA’s partners at Shift Zero secured $3.5 million in the Operating Budget to facilitate access to energy assistance programs, including incentives, audits, and rebates for retrofitting homes and small businesses. However, this funding is contingent on the Climate Commitment Act not being repealed by Initiative Measure No. 2117.

This session, we saw multiple bills seeking to address the acute need for more affordable housing options, and the passage of HB 2071 advances that goal. It directs the State Building Code Council to convene technical advisory groups and make recommendations to apply the International Residential Code (IRC) to multiplex housing of up to six units. Additionally, it calls for revisions to the International Building Code (IBC) to allow unit sizes smaller than current efficiency dwelling unit requirements. The bill also requires the development of an illustrative standard plan set that meets or exceeds all energy code regulations for residential housing subject to the IRC. This optional plan set can be used by local governments and builders as a prescriptive pathway for energy code compliance.

Furthermore, the passage of HB 1998 aims to increase affordable co-living housing choices by requiring cities and counties to allow this type of development, featuring individually rented sleeping units with shared kitchen facilities within urban areas zoned for multifamily or mixed-use. Cities and counties cannot impose overly restrictive regulations related to unit sizes, parking requirements near transit, density calculations, and other development standards.

The 2024 legislative session has truly been one for the books – a huge success that AIAWA and all of you advocating alongside us should take immense pride in. It was because of each of you that we achieved wins on so many fronts crucial to our profession and communities.

We’d love to hear from you! For more information on advocacy topics, please contact:

Samantha Morrow | Senior Manager of Policy & Advocacy, AIA Washington Council & AIA Seattle

2024 Legislative Session Begins

The 2024 legislative session kicked off on January 8 with a flurry of activities, including opening ceremonies, caucus priorities, and the House passing several bills from the last session to the Senate. This “short session” is set to run until March 7, presenting a tight 60-day window for addressing a myriad of policy, politics, and supplemental budgets.

Legislative leaders have outlined key focus areas, including housing, transportation, behavioral health, public safety, climate change, and education. Already, a record-breaking 932 new bills have been introduced within the first week, indicating a busy session ahead. In addition to newly introduced bills, all bills that did not pass during the 2023 session are still alive this year.

As we navigate through the initial weeks, legislators are deeply engaged in policy and fiscal committees, participating in public hearings and voting on bills. This first major deadline of the session is on January 31, when all bills must pass out of their respective policy committees to remain alive. This is closely followed by the fiscal committee cutoff, when all bills must pass out of their respective fiscal committees to advance.

Adding a unique dynamic to this session are six citizen initiatives aiming directly at key Democratic priorities in tax, environmental, public safety, and education policy.

Looking back on the first week, our priority companion rolling clock bills, HB 1880 and SB 5794, were both heard in committee. As a reminder, these bills seek to eliminate the rolling clock, an arbitrary five-year period in which applicants must pass all six divisions of the licensing exam, from Washington state statute. Both bills were slightly amended to allow a one-month delay to the implementation date to accommodate DOL and voted out unanimously out of their respective committees. The bills now sit in Rules in both the House and Senate, awaiting the opportunity to be pulled to the floor for a vote.

Additionally, HB 2008, which creates a task force to ascertain the primary factors driving housing costs in Washington, was passed out of the policy committee. AIAWA met with the prime sponsor to express the need for representation from our industry on the taskforce, and the bill was amended to accommodate.

Other bills of interest – including those related to AI regulation, co-living housing, lot splitting, parking flexibility, and transit-oriented development – were also heard in the policy committee:

• SB 5838– AI Taskforce – Public hearing in Senate on 1/10 and Executive session scheduled for 1/19
• HB 1998 / SB 5901 Co-living Housing- Passed out of House Housing Committee on 1/11 and referred to Rules Committee. Public hearing in Senate Local Government Committee on 1/9.
• HB 1245 Lot Splitting – Returning from last session, HB 1245 was voted off the House Floor on 1/8. It has been referred to the Senate Local Government Committee.
• SB 6015 Parking Flexibility – Public hearing in Senate Local Government Committee on 1/11.
• HB 2160 /SB 6024 Transit Oriented Development – Passed out of House Housing Committee on 1/15 and Public Hearing in Senate Local Government Committee on 1/11.

Please reach out to Samantha if you’d like to get involved in AIAWA policy committees or see an up-to-date version of our 2024 bill tracker.

AIA Washington | Capitol Connections

AIAWA members will head to Olympia for an in-person Capitol Connections event on January 23, 2024. Members will be discussing the rolling clock, HB 1880 & SB 5794, along with the Energy Upgrade Navigator Program, HB 1391.

This lobby day promises not only to be impactful but also an enjoyable experience for both members and legislators alike. Your participation is crucial in making our collective voice heard on these important matters to help shape our industry’s future for the better.

We’d love to hear from you! For more information on advocacy topics, please contact:

Samantha Morrow | Senior Manager of Policy & Advocacy, AIA Washington Council & AIA Seattle

AIA Washington

Register for Capitol Connections

Registration is open for Capitol Connections on January 23, 2024, where AIA Washington will be discussing the rolling clock bill. This event will be a great opportunity to connect with your legislators and share how this policy has impacted your professional journey.

This lobby day promises not only to be impactful but also an enjoyable experience for both members and legislators. Your participation is crucial in making our collective voice heard on this important matter that will help shape our industry’s future for the better.

Please register by Dec. 22nd here.

AIA Seattle

Building Emissions Standards

Seattle’s Building Emissions Performance Standards (BEPS) was voted out of committee on Dec. 8th with unanimous support. The BEPS initiative is a critical step towards advancing energy efficiency and decarbonization in our existing buildings, complementing Seattle’s robust building energy codes. BEPS will be voted on in the full city council meeting on December 12th at 2:00pm.

• Date/Time: Tuesday, December 12, 2023. 2:00 p.m.
• Location: Seattle City Hall, 600 4th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104
• Leave public comments here

Photo: Judkins Junction, an affordable housing project at Jackson Street and 23rd Avenue South in Seattle. (Ellen M. Banner / The Seattle Times, 2020)

LOCAL NEWS

Passage of the 2023 Seattle Housing Levy

We are thrilled to announce a historic victory for affordable housing in Seattle with the overwhelming passage of the 2023 Seattle Housing Levy, boasting an impressive 68.97% support from voters. The approved $970 million levy represents the largest city investment over the next seven years, addressing Seattle’s affordable housing crisis and preventing homelessness. The unanimous endorsement by the Seattle City Council underscores a year-long effort involving extensive stakeholder engagement, thoughtful policy development, and collaboration with leaders and organizations. The levy’s goals include creating over 3,100 new affordable homes, stabilizing supportive housing workforce wages, and preventing homelessness for over 9,000 low-income individuals and families.

STATE NEWS

Call for Public Participation: State Building Code Council Hearings on Proposed Energy Code Changes

The State Building Code Council invites you to participate in public hearings regarding proposed changes to the 2021 Washington State Energy Code (WAC 51-11C and WAC 51-11R). The proposal addresses the federal Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975 preemption issues within the 2021 Washington State Energy Code, as interpreted in the recent U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit ruling in CRA vs. City of Berkeley.

Details of Public Hearings:

• Date/Time: Tuesday, November 21, 2023. 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
• Location: Yakima City Hall, 129 N 2nd Street, Yakima, WA 98101
• Join via Zoom | Phone: 888 788 0099 | Webinar ID: 972 3088 0592

OR

• Date/Time: Wednesday, November 22, 2023. 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
• Location: DES Building, Room 1213, 1500 Jefferson St, Olympia, WA 98501
• Join via Zoom | Phone: 888 788 0099 | Webinar ID: 947 6740 2058

Complete the Public Testimony Sign-Up Sheet at least 30 minutes before the hearing.

If you would like to provide written comments, testimony must be sent to SBCC@des.wa.gov and received by 5:00 pm on November 22, 2023.

Register for Capitol Connections

Registration is now open for Capitol Connections on January 23, 2024, where AIA Washington will be discussing the rolling clock bill. This event will be a great opportunity to connect with your legislators and share how this policy has impacted your professional journey.

This lobby day promises not only to be impactful, but also an enjoyable experience for both members and legislators. Your participation is crucial in making our collective voice heard on this important matter that will help shape our industry’s future for the better. Register now!

Photo: Doug Walker

LOCAL NEWS

Public Hearing on Proposed Transportation Impact Fees

Last week, the Seattle City Council voted to expedite an amendment to the Comprehensive Plan concerning transportation impact fees. The proposal has been sent to the full Council for a public hearing on November 7th at 2:00 pm.

Council Bill 120635 aims to amend the transportation element of the Comprehensive Plan, specifying how transportation impact fees would be implemented and which projects could receive funding. It’s important to note that any decision to officially adopt these fees will be made at a later date.

We encourage our members to participate in the public hearing and share their perspectives. You can testify during the council meeting on November 7th. This presents a valuable opportunity for AIA Seattle members to testify as individuals to provide insights and expertise regarding the potential impact of these changes on the architectural landscape in Seattle.

• Learn more about AIA Seattle’s Transportation Policy statement
• Visit the Seattle City Council Public Comment page for information on testifying

Seattle’s 2024 Budget Deliberations

Starting on September 27, 2023, the Seattle City Council began its annual budget deliberations, following the delivery of Mayor Bruce Harrell’s proposed 2024 Budget Adjustments. This process directly impacts the allocation of resources in our city and the overall quality of life for Seattle residents.

Here’s how you can get informed and make your voice heard:

1. Watch Budget Meetings: The City Council conducted all-day budget meetings last week to review the proposed adjustments. Recordings of these meetings are available to view anytime.
2. Public Comment Opportunities: As the Budget Committee continues its work, you have an opportunity share your comments verbally on Friday, October 27th. You can sign up to speak two hours before the session, whether in person or remotely.
3. Public Hearings: In addition, the Council is holding public hearings dedicated to hearing from the public about their budget priorities. Again, you can sign up to speak two hours before the session, either in person or remotely. The upcoming hearing is on Monday, November 13, 2023, at 5:00 PM.
4. Provide Written Feedback: The City encourages you to share your insights in writing anytime.
5. Resources for Understanding the Budget: The City has created tools to help you understand Seattle’s budget, and there’s an interactive guide for those new to the process.

Your involvement is vital in ensuring that the budget reflects the needs and aspirations of our community, including the architectural and design aspects that make our city vibrant and livable.

STATE NEWS

AIA Washington’s Push to Eliminate Restrictive “Rolling Clock” Policy

The recent decision by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) to retire the “rolling clock” policy, which imposed a five-year expiration on passed divisions of the Architect Registration Examination, is a significant move towards fostering inclusivity and diversity within our industry.

However, Washington state remains one of the last two states where this policy is written into statute, presenting a significant challenge for aspiring architects. In response, AIAWA will spearhead a bill during the upcoming legislative session to eliminate this restrictive policy, and we need your support!

If you have a compelling story about how the rolling clock policy has affected your journey to licensure, we want to hear from you! Reach out to Tammie Sueirro or Samantha Morrow to provide your perspective and learn more about opportunities to share your story with the Legislature. Your voice and stories can make a real difference in this effort.

Moreover, mark your calendars for Capitol Connections on January 23, 2024, where AIA Washington will be discussing the rolling clock bill. This event will be a great opportunity to connect with your legislators and share how this policy has impacted your professional journey.

This lobby day promises not only to be impactful but also an enjoyable experience for both members and legislators. Your participation is crucial in making our collective voice heard on this important matter that will help shape our industry’s future for the better.

Stay tuned for more information.

Advocacy in Action

AIAWA is excited to announce the return of our Advocacy in Action series, an informative two-part webinar program designed to empower you as architect advocates. This series is tailored to emerging professionals and students but is open to everyone who is passionate about advocating for issues that matter to them.

Part One: Advocacy 101

• Date: November 9, 2023
• Time: 12:00 pm
• Location: Online

In the first installment on November 9, you will delve into the essentials of advocacy. Discover how AIAWA works to safeguard our profession and address critical issues. Learn how you, as an architect, can play a pivotal role in shaping the future and engaging on matters important to you. This session will equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to become an effective advocate.

Part Two: 2024 Legislative Session Preview

• Date: December 7, 2023
• Time: 12:00 pm
• Location: Online

Part two of the series will serve as preview of what to expect in the 2024 legislative session. Gain insights into the upcoming legislative agenda and how it impacts the architectural field. Stay ahead of the curve and be prepared to actively engage in the legislative process.

Whether you’re an emerging professional, a seasoned architect, or simply someone who cares deeply about the issues that shape our profession, this series is for you. Join us to strengthen your advocacy skills and make a meaningful impact.

We look forward to your participation in the Advocacy in Action series.

NATIONAL NEWS

AIA National Campaign for R&D Tax Credit Fix

AIA National has issued a call to action for its members to contribute their voices and stories to their campaign aimed at advocating for a fix to the R&D (174) tax credit. This campaign targets key members of Congress, including Senator Cantwell of Washington.

Recent changes to the tax R&D tax credit have raised concerns about its impact on architectural firms, prompting the need for urgent action.

AIA Seattle members are encouraged to share their personal experiences, stories, and insights related to the changes in the 174 credit. These testimonials will serve as valuable resources to the AIA National campaign to persuade Congress to act.

To contribute your story or insights, please email Stephanie Lamore.

Photo: Jared Wenzelburger, The Chronicle

SBCC Advances Energy Code Amendments with Revised Effective Date

Exciting Opportunities with AIA Washington Council

Release of Seattle’s Draft Comp Plan Expected Late Fall

Originally slated to be shared in June, the release of the Draft Comprehensive Plan and Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) is now expected sometime in late fall.

The delay is driven by OPCD’s commitment to creating a Plan that accurately reflects the aspirations and concerns of the community. By allowing for more time, they aim to carefully integrate the feedback received, address evolving state regulations, and give full consideration to the significance of issues addressed in the Plan.

As the release date approaches, members are encouraged to stay engaged in the Comp Plan Work Group and continue offering their perspectives to shape the future of their neighborhoods and environment.

Photo: MyNorthwest 

AIA National Revised Federal Research & Development Tax Credit Update

AIA National has shared an important update regarding the revised federal research and development (R&D) tax credit, which came into effect on January 1, 2023. Due to the increasing number of inquiries from concerned parties, AIA wants to ensure that everyone is well-informed about the latest updates on this matter.

Background:
In 2017, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) brought about significant changes to the U.S. tax code. One of these changes involves an amendment to Section 174, which now requires taxpayers to capitalize and amortize R&D expenditures for tax years beginning after December 31, 2021. This change has a notable impact on firms involved in R&D activities.

Impact on R&D Tax Credit:
Additionally, the TCJA affects the eligibility for the R&D tax credit. The definition of “qualified research” has been modified to align with the new rules under Section 174. Taxpayers must now classify expenses as “specified research or experimental expenditures” under Section 174 in order to claim the Section 41 tax credit. This emphasizes the need for careful validation of Section 41 expenditures to comply with the revised requirements.

AIA’s Active Engagement:
AIA has been actively engaged on this issue since last year, working to address the challenges faced by firms. AIA continues to collaborate with business groups, collect stories from AIA members, and advocate for revisions to the new law in order to achieve statutory corrections (including retroactive measures).

Legislative Progress:
Encouragingly, a bipartisan bill known as the American Innovation and Jobs Act (S. 866) has been reintroduced in the Senate, with a House bill recently introduced (bill number pending). While these reintroductions are positive steps, further action is necessary. Member participation and advocacy can significantly influence the progress in resolving this issue

Call to Action:
AIA National urges members to take the following actions:

1. Write to Members of Congress: Utilize AIA National’s Action Alert to convey the impact of the changes on your firm and emphasize the importance of addressing the issue.
2. Share your stories: AIA is seeking stories from affected members and firms to highlight the urgency of the issue to Congress. Email Sarah Dodge for further follow-up.
3. Engage with House Ways and Means Committee and Senate Finance Committee Members: If you have connections with policymakers on these committees, reach out to them. Their support plays a vital role in rectifying this issue.

Your engagement and advocacy are key to achieving a favorable outcome. With possible decisive action in fall 2023, the collective efforts of AIA members can make a significant difference.

Call for Feedback: Updates to Architects are Environmentally Responsible Policy

We are excited to announce that AIA National is undertaking an important initiative to update the Architects are Environmentally Responsible section of the AIA Public Policy statements and accept feedback from members.

Recognizing the urgency of climate action, AIA declared it a priority in 2019. However, the current Architects are Environmentally Responsible policy was last reviewed and approved by the Board of Directors in 2017, predating this priority declaration. To bridge this gap and ensure this policy aligns with recent AIA statements, a subgroup of the Committee on the Environment (COTE) was assigned the task of leading this effort.

Your input is crucial in shaping the direction of this policy. We invite you to review the proposed updates, which are available in two formats: a redlined version highlighting the changes and a  clean version for easy reading.

To provide your feedback, you can send your written comments directly to Anne Law. All feedback must be submitted by the close of business on Thursday, July 27th.

In addition to written feedback, AIA National is hosting virtual Zoom feedback sessions to facilitate interactive discussions. These sessions will provide you with an opportunity to engage with fellow AIA members and share your thoughts on the proposed updates. Join us at the final Zoom feedback session: July 27 (Thurs) 5:00 – 6:30 pm EST/

Design Review Legislative Package Passed by Seattle City Council

Seattle City Council, led by Mayor Bruce Harrell, recently passed a crucial legislative package to address the pressing issue of affordable housing. The initiative aims to boost affordable housing production by streamlining permitting processes, which have been a major bottleneck in construction.

The package consists of two key bills: Council Bill 120591 and Council Bill 120581. Council Bill 120591, now in effect permanently, builds on successful temporary exemptions from design review implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. These exemptions sped up the opening of affordable housing projects, offering much-needed relief to the community. Under the new bill, rental and home-ownership projects with 40% of units affordable at up to 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) will be exempt from design review. It’s important to note that though design review is no longer mandatory for these projects, they still meet stringent building and land use codes, ensuring high standards for health and safety.

The second bill, Council Bill 120581, introduces temporary provisions to the permit review process, allowing housing projects to meet the City’s Mandatory Housing Affordability (MHA) requirement through on-site performance, earning an exemption from design review. This bill also permits projects to receive departures from design standards, streamlining the process and facilitating more efficient construction. By eliminating outdated language in the City’s Land Use code, the legislation provides a clearer definition of affordable housing, fostering an environment that encourages more affordable housing developments in Seattle.

The impact of these bills has been met with widespread praise from various organizations and individuals invested in affordable housing. By simplifying the permitting process and providing incentives, the City aims to increase the production of affordable housing and address the critical housing needs of its residents. While more work may still be needed, the approval of these bills represents a significant step forward in tackling Seattle’s affordable housing crisis.

Call for Feedback: Updates to Architects are Environmentally Responsible Policy

We are excited to announce that AIA National is undertaking an important initiative to update the Architects are Environmentally Responsible section of the AIA Public Policy statements and accept feedback from members.

Recognizing the urgency of climate action, AIA declared it a priority in 2019. However, the current Architects are Environmentally Responsible policy was last reviewed and approved by the Board of Directors in 2017, predating this priority declaration. To bridge this gap and ensure this policy aligns with recent AIA statements, a subgroup of the Committee on the Environment (COTE) was assigned the task of leading this effort.

Your input is crucial in shaping the direction of this policy. We invite you to review the proposed updates, which are available in two formats: a redlined version highlighting the changes and a clean version for easy reading.

To provide your feedback, you can send your written comments directly to Anne Law. All feedback must be submitted by the close of business on Thursday, July 27th.

In addition to written feedback, AIA National is hosting virtual Zoom feedback sessions to facilitate interactive discussions. These sessions will provide you with an opportunity to engage with fellow AIA members and share your thoughts on the proposed updates. We encourage you to participate in one of these sessions to make your voice heard. Here are the details for the Zoom feedback sessions:

July 12 (Wed) 5:00 – 6:30 pm EST
July 18 (Tues) 2:00 – 3:30 pm EST
July 27 (Thurs) 5:00 – 6:30 pm EST