Since the passage of the Growth Management Act (GMA) 25 years ago, there has been one group in the state that has been tenacious about defending the principles of the GMA: Futurewise. Formerly known as 1000 Friends of Washington, Futurewise stands up in legal fights against sprawl and has also been the most consistent voice in legislative battles over smart growth in Olympia. Today they and Washington Bikes,  took a strong clear stand in favor of microhousing (you can read the whole letter here).

We believe that micro-housing is an essential housing type which can and should be supported by the City of Seattle. Allowing micro-housing units will assist the City in meeting its housing targets so that we can better address the increasing demand for housing in the city, as well as provide current and future residents of Seattle greater housing choice. Given Seattle’s growing affordable housing needs, micro-housing units can also present a more affordable housing living option for residents.

Along with broad support for microhouisng both groups affirmed the idea that builders of microhousing should have more flexibility in unit size.

Decreasing the current minimum unit size and allowing the inclusion of kitchen or food preparation areas to be flexible to meet market demand. Allowing for reduced minimum unit size allows for more housing choices for residents. With a growing demand for housing and a difference in the type of housing people are looking for, more housing choices with more housing price choices is a good thing.

Futurewise gets that when there is a minimum unit size imposed, even an average unit size, fewer more expensive units result. Why not let renters decide what they want to buy instead of making them pay more for bigger apartments? Now if we can just convince the City Council of the same thing. Please contact Councilmember O’Brien and let him know your thoughts at Mike.Obrien@seattle.gov.