From this morning’s story in the DesNews about the first day of the legislative session.  Here’s an excerpt from Speaker Brad Wilson’s opening speech to the House.  Nothing more I need to say on this.

Wilson said the problem (housing affordability) is centered on high interest rates, over-regulation and a housing shortage.

“Some of these problems we have no control over, but when it comes to over-regulation, there is something that can be done. Local governments are at the forefront of critical decisions that impact our housing supply,” Wilson said, adding “some are doing it very well.”

He highlighted initiatives in Ogden, Clearfield and South Jordan as good examples, “but our housing crisis is a statewide issue, and we need all local governments to follow the lead of these and other cities that recognize the problem and provide solutions — rather than hurdles — to those supplying houses for the people of Utah.”

This year, lawmakers are poised to consider a slew of policy changes to help loosen controls around certain housing developments and more strongly incentivize (or force) cities to include moderate housing in their plans.