As I serve my term as President of the Home Builders Association of Michigan, I am reminded that our industry has always been strongest when we stand together. As an association, the collective strength of our membership allows us to protect and advance the industry and create attainable housing opportunities for Michigan families. This year, that pursuit will require focus, persistence and unified advocacy. 

Advocacy is foundational to HBAM’s mission. Whether we are working alongside lawmakers to advance thoughtful zoning reform legislation or protecting homeowners and builders from costly and unnecessary code changes, our commitment to promoting housing attainability remains the same. 

This issue of Michigan Builder highlights the recently introduced bipartisan zoning reform bill package. These proposed changes would modernize local regulations and address housing shortages in communities across Michigan. Smart zoning policy can open doors for development where our state needs it most, and HBAM is engaged at every step to ensure these conversations address the day-to-day challenges our members face. But hundreds of not-in-my-backyard (NIMBY) local government officials have been working to derail this important effort. We need your help to counter this. A brief phone call or message to your state representative and senator on this issue is needed. Tell them you support the bipartisan zoning reform legislation they will soon vote on. Click here to find your legislators’ contact information and send them a message. 

At the same time, we continue to pursue strategic legal action when necessary. Our ongoing cases — including efforts to push back against unreasonable regulatory burdens and overreach — underscore that advocacy extends beyond the Capitol. 

As we move through this election year, it is more important than ever that our voices are heard. Public policy decisions made today will shape housing affordability for years to come. I encourage each of you to stay informed, engage with your local officials and support our advocacy initiatives. Together, we can ensure that housing remains a priority for policymakers at every level. I am honored to serve as your President and look forward to working alongside you to advance our industry.

Karen J. Schroeder
2026 HBAM President