Tell Manatee County Commissioners: Don’t Price Out Homebuyers

The Manatee County Commission is currently considering a 100%+ increase in impact fees for new residential construction—a move that could significantly raise the cost of homeownership for future buyers and put affordable housing even further out of reach for many families.

What’s Being Proposed?

If approved, the proposed increase would more than double the impact fees charged on new homes. For example:

• A 1,500 sq. ft. home currently faces an impact fee of approximately $13,979.

• Under the proposed change, that same home would be charged $27,000 in impact fees.

That increase—more than $13,000 extra per home—will likely be passed on directly to buyers, raising home prices in a market where affordability is already a growing concern.

Why It Matters

At RASM, we understand the importance of supporting infrastructure. Roads, schools, and parks are critical to our communities. But these improvements shouldn’t come at the expense of homeownership.

RASM Vice President of Advocacy and Member Programs, Max Brandow, spoke at a recent Commission meeting to urge a balanced approach.

“We support addressing infrastructure needs—we just ask that it’s done without increasing housing costs.”

How You Can Take Action

Your voice as a REALTOR® and a community advocate is powerful. We’re asking our members—and anyone who values affordable housing—to speak up.

📣 Contact the Manatee County Commissioners and let them know that increasing impact fees by over 100% will make it even harder for families to buy homes.

👉 Click here to send a message now.

Stay Engaged

RASM will continue to advocate for smart, sustainable housing policy that protects both our clients and our communities. Thank you for standing with us to make your voice heard.

For updates and more advocacy efforts, visit our Advocacy page.