Walking the Walk
We know that King County needs 156,000 more affordable homes right now to ensure no one is spending more than 30% of their income on rent. The scale of the problem is vast, clear, and not up for debate. We know the solutions exist because we have seen the direct positive result from when we invest in these solutions. So, then what’s been the gap between seeing the need and meeting the need? Creating and using all the tools in the policy toolbox to meet the need by scaling up solutions through intentional investments.
That is why its so exciting to see municipalities across King County stepping up and walking the walk by beginning the process to implement HB 1406. This tool allows cities and counties to retain a portion of the state sales tax to use for affordable housing. Auburn, Bothell, Burien, Des Moines, Federal Way, Kenmore, Kirkland, Seattle, Shoreline, Renton, and Tukwila have all begun the conversation on using 1406. Yesterday, Seattle City Council voted in committee to adopt an ordinance on 1406 and it will be going to a full council vote later this month. We look forward to other King County cities moving forward with this discussion as we continue to urge cities to act urgently and work collaboratively.
Sign up here to commit to being a 1406 advocacy champion, and join us as we encourage every city to walk the walk!
