Analysis and Advised Response to Local Application of the Growth Management Act

Jude A. Helmes, September 14th, 2026
Vancouver, WA | Building Industry Association of Clark County

Introduction
Over the past 15 years, the housing market in Clark County, Washington, has seen rising prices for consumers. The causes of increased housing prices stem from microeconomic factors such as increasing regulatory burdens and supply and demand dynamics of land and labor, as well as macroeconomic factors such as increasing costs of borrowing. Concurrent with rising housing prices, the Growth Management Act (GMA) of 1990 introduces other concerns about sustainable housing initiatives in Clark County. Under Washington State House Bill 1220, Washington counties are required to apply the GMA. The GMA requires Washington counties to plan for housing and population growth by setting urban growth boundaries and designating
critical areas for wildlife and natural resources protection. Additionally, the GMA requires Washington counties to create comprehensive plans to address problems associated with increased housing demand and growth long term... (continue reading)