WRA Public Affairs Priority Issues

1. Shoreland zoning rules (Wis. Admin. Code Ch. NR 115)

Background – The DNR has been in the process of revising the state’s shoreland zoning regulations for the last 6 years.  The most recent draft contained several provisions of concern including strict impervious surface caps, larger minimum lot size requirements, new limits on expansions to nonconforming structures, and vague mitigation standards.

WRA Action – The WRA staff will continue to meet with DNR staff to negotiate favorable changes for property owners and the real estate industry.  If a reasonable compromise cannot be reached, the WRA staff will work to educate and mobilize affected waterfront property owners through the Wisconsin Homeowner’s Alliance.  The WRA staff also will work closely with the legislators to make sure the changes to the rule balance private property rights and environmental protection.  Status – The final draft of the proposed changes will be sent to the Natural Resources Board in May for an informational hearing and then back to the Board for final approval in June/July.
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2. Global Warming Task Force

Background -- A gubernatorial task force on global warming was created to study the effects of, and solutions to, global warming in Wisconsin.  The Task Force’s primary responsibility is to create a state plan of action to reduce our state's greenhouse gas emissions.  Among its preliminary recommendations, the Task Force has made several recommendations impacting the real estate industry including prohibitions on the use of tax incremental financing for greenfield development, requiring all rental properties to use energy efficient lighting, and adopting “green building” codes to encourage greater energy efficiency for new buildings.

WRA Action – The WRA staff will continue to monitor the activities and recommendations of the Task Force and provide input where deemed necessary.  Status – The Task Force is scheduled to meet every 2 weeks throughout the month of May and will likely be finishing its list of final recommendations over the summer.