FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date 05/1/00

Contact: Rachel Reed-Nance
942-8800, ext. 232

HBA Supports the Johnson County Contractor Licensing Program

The Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City (HBA) has announced its support for the new Johnson County Contractor Licensing regulations. The Johnson County Board of Commissioners is expected to adopt the regulations by in late May.

Recognizing that a movement regarding a licensing program in the state of Kansas was afoot, the HBA formed a task force several years ago to study the issue. After extensive research and study, the group agreed that licensing would be appropriate for builders on the county level, rather than under city or state jurisdiction. Subsequently, the Johnson County Building Officials Association was formed, thus work on drafting a licensing program commenced. HBA representatives sat on the subcommittee charged with the drafting along with members from other related industries and the general public. Countless hours from all groups went into this task.

While the HBA regrets that the proposed regulations are not as tight as they could have possibly been, the support reflects the association's stance that some type of licensing is acceptable. This is obviously a negotiated program due to the range of groups involved but defines an adequate place from which to introduce licensing.

The HBA applauds the commitment and hard work of the many volunteers who served on the Contractor Regulation drafting committee or who provided input through the process. Their vision and dedication to the project will help shape the future of the building industry in Johnson County for years to come.

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