HBAR Applauds Goochland Supervisors for Rejecting Cash Proffer Increase

Richmond, Va. — The Home Building Association of Richmond (HBAR) applauds the Goochland County Board of Supervisors for unanimously voting against a proposed increase in cash proffers that would have significantly increased the cost of building new homes in the county.

The proposal would have increased cash proffers for new single family homes to as much as $35,000 per home. Cash proffers are fees associated with new residential developments that can significantly increase the cost of new housing. By rejecting the proposal, the Board left Goochland's existing case-by-case proffer policy in place, avoiding what would have been thousands of dollars in additional costs for future homebuyers.

"We are pleased the Board declined to make an expensive policy even more expensive. Goochland's existing proffer structure already creates challenges for housing affordability, and this vote avoided adding another layer of cost," said Elizabeth Greenfield, Vice President of Government Affairs for HBAR. "HBAR remains committed to working with Goochland County on solutions that address infrastructure needs while reducing unnecessary costs that constrain housing supply and make homeownership less attainable."

HBAR, a trade association representing developers, homebuilders, trade contractors, and industry professionals throughout Central Virginia, advocates for policies that support housing opportunities for current and future residents.

"While we represent the homebuilding industry, our work ultimately benefits the people who buy and rent homes," said Danna Markland, Chief Executive Officer of HBAR. "We work with local governments to help them understand the unintended consequences of policies that increase the cost of development. Every additional fee, requirement, or delay imposed during the development process ultimately becomes part of the price a family pays for a home. Goochland's population is aging, and we commend the Board of Supervisors for recognizing the importance of reducing barriers to homeownership for younger generations and working families."

Markland emphasized that additional action will be needed to address the county's long-term housing supply.

"Yesterday's vote was an important step, but there is still more work to do," she said. "So far this year, Goochland County has approved rezonings for only five new homes—and all five are accessory dwelling units rather than new neighborhoods—while permitting approximately 80 homes and recording approximately 119 home sales during the same period. At a minimum, Goochland should be replacing the housing inventory absorbed by the market. When new housing production falls behind demand, prices increase, tax assessments rise, and homeownership becomes less attainable for existing residents and the next generation of residents.”