From RPAC to influencing public policy, we pride ourselves in taking the lead on the political scene. We're committed to proactive involvement representing a positive, nonpartisan voice for the promotion and protection of private property rights and the American dream of home ownership.
To that end, we employ a full-time Governmental Affairs Director. We take an active role in the electoral process, both at the local level and state level, through candidate interviews and endorsements. We actively participate on the committees and task forces which help to shape public policy, particularly as it affects land use and property rights.

We represent you in all matters which impact your ability to provide professional real estate brokerage services to your customers and clients.

RASCW Works for Land Conservation Plan
As a result of negotiations last year with Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk, RASCW leadership and staff have been working to develop a proposal for farm land protection and land conservation in rural Dane County. Working closely with Dane County Supervisor Phil Salkin, a resolution calling for the creation of a unique transfer of development rights program was introduced at the County Board of Supervisors meeting on July 13th. Salkin, who serves also as the Chairman of the On Common Ground Foundation Board of Directors, was able to secure the signatures of 30 (out of 39) County Supervisors in support of this resolution.

So what makes this program so appealing to such a broad range of interests?

First of all, this is not a program that has been developed in isolation. The concepts contained in this program have all been reviewed by and reflect the input of major stakeholders in the county land use discussion: REALTORS®, builders, the Towns Association, farmers and more.

Second, this program would be county-wide, yet Dane County Townships would be free to decide independently whether or not to participate (or at what level of participation), thereby maintaining local control of land use decisions.

Third, this program would not be a substitute for any rights afforded under law. Rather, it is intended to guide and encourage certain forms of development, and would enhance the diversity of housing available in Dane County.

Fourth, the program is incentive-based (as opposed to a "command and control" philosophy often found in these types of circumstances) - both at the selling end and at the receiving end of development rights. By protecting certain lands, such as high quality farmlands, and/or by developing in certain manners, such as creating rural neighborhoods versus scattered housing sites, additional development rights may be obtained.

Fifth, the program would provide an opportunity for a public-private partnership by combining the county/township purchase of development rights programs with the private transfer of development rights. We are not aware of anywhere else in the country that such a program is being utilized.

Perhaps most importantly, as Supervisor Salkin states, the program has an opportunity to succeed in that it is practical, the objectives of the program are achievable, and the positive impact of the program is wide-spread.

Please direct any comments, suggestions, or questions to RASCW Governmental Affairs Director Phil Salkin at psalkin@wra.org or by calling 608.241.2047.