Property owners’ rights in Pierce County is an issue that I find particularly important, both in my professional and personal life. I give my available time and funds to protecting the rights of property owners. So when an issue comes up that could limit or extend those rights, I feel it important to make residents aware.

The Pierce County Council will be addressing a transfer-of-development rights proposal today. This proposal is especially important to rural land owners as well as all Pierce County residents in regards to the future growth and health of the county.

From an Opinion piece from today’s New Tribune:

"The beauty of a TDR plan is that it is market-driven. No farmer or rural landowner is forced to sell his property, nor is he deprived of the opportunity to realize the “nest egg” value of his property."

"Developers worry that the TDR program will drive up the cost of buildable land and thus housing prices as well."

This program might beg me to answer, am I for fair housing or affordable housing? I’m for both. I believe that a free market will sort out affordable housing, but restrictive land ordinances and laws are not fair to home and land owners.

I would personally encourage the Council to approve the TDR program. Whether you do or do not is your choice - but I encourage you to let your council member know how you feel today, or you may lose your chance.

Find your council member.

Update: The Pierce County Council has adopted the TDR program. Read on.