Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB1215

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/11/24
• Refer: 4/11/24
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Grants and loans for housing cooperative infrastructure improvements and making an appropriation. (FE)

Impact

The implementation of AB1215 is expected to positively influence state housing laws by promoting better living conditions through financial assistance for infrastructure improvements. By addressing issues of safety, sanitation, and energy conservation, the bill aims to enhance the overall quality of life for residents in housing cooperatives. Additionally, this legislation will increase the lifespan of existing structures, thereby contributing to sustainable community development and potentially lowering living costs for residents in these cooperatives.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1215 is focused on establishing a Housing Cooperative Infrastructure Improvements Loan and Grant Program. This initiative allows the Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) to provide financial support in the form of loans and grants to housing cooperatives. These funds are intended for infrastructure enhancements, which can include maintenance and repairs to ensure that housing and communal properties meet safety and sanitary standards. Special emphasis is placed on benefiting cooperatives that own manufactured or mobile home communities as well as multi-family apartment complexes.

Contention

While the bill has clear benefits, there may be discussions regarding the allocation of state funds, specifically the $10,000,000 earmarked for the program. Potential points of contention could arise concerning whether these grants and loans will be sufficient to meet the demand from cooperatives or if additional funding mechanisms should be considered. Furthermore, there might be varying opinions on the prioritization of mobile home communities compared to other types of housing cooperatives.