Justice
Seattle Considers Giving Renters a Formal Voice at City Hall
A new commission would advise officials on issues affecting renters and seek ways to enact stronger protections.
With housing costs rising sharply in Seattle, the city’s large share of renters could soon get a stronger voice in city government.
Three city council members want to establish a formal renters’ commission to advise city hall on the issues affecting renters and strategies for renter protections in the future. The panel would consist of 15 volunteer members, appointed by the council and the mayor. They would represent the full diversity of Seattle renters, including students, low-income residents, those living in subsidized housing, and people with past felony convictions. If approved, it would be the first of its kind for a U.S. city.