On behalf of the Jefferson County Father’s Group, a local group focused on creating housing options for those with developmental disabilities, I want to thank our three representatives, Steve Tharinger, Mike Chapman, and Kevin Van De Wege for their strong support in improving opportunities for housing for those adults in Washington with developmental disabilities.  Our three representatives provided strong support and leadership in this last Legislative session for improving conditions conducive to improving housing funding for those adults with developmental disabilities.  Specifically, all three were instrumental in getting passage of Senate Bill 5672, which recognized the lack of an appropriate assessment process and funding for those who could benefit from living in an Adult Family Home.

Our representatives were readily available to meet with our group, discuss the housing needs for those with developmental disabilities, and in providing support and leadership to gain passage of this important bill. This is only a first step at improving housing opportunities for this population, and we have a long way to go when Washington State is only 39th among all states in its support for those citizens in our state who have developmental disabilities, but it is an important step.

Our thanks to all three in their support, and in their commitment in continuing their efforts of support.

Bob Wheeler
Port Townsend