HomeMy WebLinkAboutCDN 2019-05-14 Item 2D - Discussion - Housing IssuesTO:
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�~itK���« Tukwila
KNFOR NAK
E ORANDUU
Community Development and Neighborhoods
Jack Pace, C|CQDirector
Nora Gierloff, Deputy DCQDirector
Mayor Ekberg
May 14,2019
Update onHousing Issues
Allan Ekberg, Mayor
ISSUE
What additional should Tukwila take bzsupport orange ofquality, affordable housing
options for our diverse population?
BACKGROUND
TUkVv|o has.had longstanding concern about the housing challenges faced by its residents.
These include decreasing affordability aodevelopment pressures escalate, declining housing
quality, lack of family sized rental units, and few units affordable to those making 30% or less of
Area Median Income (AM|).The Housing Element ofthe Comprehensive Plan inAttachment /\
lists the C'tv's goa|s, policies and recommended implementation strategies for housing.
Over the last few years Tukwila has seen the following housing development:
Project Name
Units
Address
Description
Completed
AirmarkApartnnenbs
343
223 Andover Pk E
Market Rate, All Ages
Tukwila Village D
88
14400T|B
Affordable, Seniors
Tukwila Village E
125
445OS144mSt.
Affordable, Seniors
2O18Single Family
18
Various
Market Rate
554
Under Construction
Tukwila Village A
84
14200T|B
Mixed Income and ages
PWame||eSouthoenb»r
186
4O7Baker B|
Market Rate, Seniors
{]ator|yTovynhousen
23
3429S.144mSt
Market Rate
273
Issued
Quail Pork
121
13112 Military Rd 8
Market Rote, Assisted Living
2019 Single Family
S
Various
Market Rate
127
In Permit Review
Mo|donSouthcenter
134
112 Andover Pk E
Market Rate, Assisted Living
Proposed
Bellwether Apartments
112
37XXG. 152nu 8t.
Affordable, All ages
Homestead Houses
18
311881401h8t
Mixed Income, All ages
|n2O17the City Council held oHousing Policy Work Session toreview and prioritize actions to
address housing affordability, creation and quality. Based onthat policy direction staff has
59
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 2
Schedule Future Actions
Department
Ongoing
PubUcPrivahaPortnenshipa-Tukwi|oVlUoge.Bellwether
Apartments, Homestead Houses
OCO
2018/2018
Tukwila International Boulevard Code Amendments
DCO
Tofollow T|B
Change
Multi -Family Tax Exemption —Pilot program in Urban center, T|B
to follow
OCD/ED
On hold for
T|B
Allow Dup|ax/TmVvRhomes in LOR by Neighborhood - possibly as
transition zones between commercial and LDR
DCD
Budget
Dependent
Reducing Low Density Residential Lot Size by Neighborhood or
Change toO.0008FCitywide
OCO
To follow
Homestead
Housing [)ptionsOrdinance for Cottage/Compact Homes
D{�O/
Consultant
Completed Actions
2019
Joined 8KHHPthrough inhsrlono agreement
Administration
Updaba2O18
Amnesty'
2019
Update toAccessory Dwelling Unit zoning standards followed by
onamnesty period and registration requirement
OCD
Adopted
2018
Parks and Fire impact fees and development permit fees may be
reduced for affordable housing with 2ormore bedrooms orthat
serve tenants with incomes lower than 5U%#fmedian, TK8C
Chapter 16.
DCD/PVV/
Parks/Fire
Held July
2017
Tenant F<ightoEducation VVorhshnp—(�enena|and [Nobi|eHome
Human
8an/icas
Adopted
2017
Source ofIncome Discrimination prohibited,TN1C 8.47
Administration
Adopted
2010
Residential Rental Business License and Inspection Program
DCO
Adopted
3000
Relocation assistance for tenants required when displaced due
to owner action, T[NC 8'46
Adopted
1098
Higher density and lower parking allowed for senior citizen
housing developments
D{}O
Tukwila's rental housing inspection program has played a significant role in
maintaining and improving the /condition �the City's housing stock. The vast majority of
affordable housing |siDolder, privately owned buildings that require ongoing maintenance and
repair. Regular inspections ensure that owners are reinvesting in their properties and thus
preserving this housing.
DISCUSSION
In order to create affordability, the gap between market costs and affordable rents needs to be
bridged bydirect financial contributions, in kind contributions such as land donation or fee
waivers, and reductions in construction cost bvmodifying development standards such aa
density or parking. Following are the main options for increasing the supply of affordable
1. Regional Policy Action Contributing funds and support to the South King Housing
and Homelessness Partnership asthey address regional housing concerns and
pursue additional funding tools. It is possible that as SKHHIP develooapacjh/it
could take on a role similar to ARCH in direct ownership or housing development;
60 IACounci|Agenda ltemsT=5-1449CWCDN Housing Memos4449.docx
INFORMATIONAL MEMO
Page 3
2. Direct and Indirect Funding Offering land and/or funding (impact fee reductions,
Multi -Family Tax Exemption (MFTE), or direct contributions) to encourage other
agencies and non -profits to develop housing, such as SHAG at Tukwila Village;
3. Lowering Development Costs Using development agreements to modify Zoning
standards on a case by case basis (Tukwila Village, Bellwether and Homestead) or
making overall Code changes to encourage private development such as the
Accessory Dwelling Unit ordinance or the senior housing standards. The last major
housing project to be developed using Tukwila's current Multi -Family Design
Standards, recreation space requirements and parking standards was The Peaks
Condominiums in 1995. It is unlikely that new projects will be developed at the
densities permitted in MDR and HDR zoning, especially combined with requirements
for 400 square feet of recreation space and two parking spaces per unit including
one -bedrooms. Building and Fire Codes could also be reviewed to identify
opportunities for cost reduction;
4. Inclusionary/Incentive Zoning Inclusionary zoning requires that market rate housing
projects either include a certain percentage of affordable units or pay a fee -in -lieu for
development of affordable housing elsewhere. This requires robust market forces that
allow projects to be profitable even after this additional expense. The TUC Zone
offers a height incentive to projects that include affordable housing units; and
5. Direct Housing Development and Preservation Purchasing, remodeling and
managing existing units and/or developing new housing ourselves similar to the
actions of the Renton and King County Housing Authorities.
The Council will have the opportunity to explore affordable housing issues in more depth at the
Short Course on Affordable Housing scheduled for May 29th. The Regional Affordable Housing
Task Force has developed a summary of their final report that identifies recommended
strategies, see Attachment B. Tukwila could draw from these to identify actions tailored to our
city's needs.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Varies based on proposed actions. Having a consultant prepare a market summary, overview of
the regional housing landscape, and develop housing strategy recommendations tailored to
Tukwila would cost approximately $15,000 to $20,000.
RECOMMENDATION
Information only in preparation for the Short Course on Affordable Housing sponsored by the
Department of Commerce. This issue could then return to CDN for continued discussion on
preferred strategies and actions.
ATTACHMENTS
A. Tukwila Comprehensive Plan Housing Element
B. Regional Affordable Housing Task Force Final Report Summary
ZICouncil Agenda ItemsIDCD15-14-19 CDNICDN Housing Memo 5-14-19.docx
61
62
CHAPTER THREE
HOUSING
TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
64
WHAT YOU WILL FIND UN THIS CHAPTER:
^ Estimates Ofcurrent and future housing needs,
^ Policies tQpreserve and improve the existing housing stock; encourage new housing
that meets the community's needs; and develop thriving, equitable neighborhoods; and
^ Strategies to encourage housing that is affordable to all income levels and for all current
and projected residentsinQu[conlnnuDity.
This Housing element describes how Tukwila's housing needs will be satisfied through 2031.
Projected housing needs were determined by a joint committee of cities and the County, as
required by State law. The importance of these needs was highlighted in the development of
the City's 2012 Strategic Plan and guided by the Community Conversations outreach efforts of
the 2015 Comprehensive Plan update. This element is based on a detailed analysis of Tukwila's
housing needs contained inthe Housing Background Report.
Tukwila will continue togrow over the next twenty years, projected toaccononomdateanadditiona|
4`80Ohouseholds and l5,50Onew jobs bvZO5l. By3O]5,Tukwila isprojected toacconnrnodate
an additional 768 households and 2,480 new jobs, for a total of 5,568 new households and 17,980
new jobs over the next twenty years. Tukvvila'szoning can accommodate this projected g/ovvth
as the City has capacity for over 6,000 new housing units. The goals and policies presented here
identify the steps the City of Tukwila can take in response to the housing issues found within our
community. These steps are necessary to plan for growth that will ensure the sustainability and
vitality of the existing housing stock, to reduce barriers that prevent low- and moderate -income
households from living near their work or transit, and to preserve housing that is afforclably priced
for all households, including lOvv-iO[OrDe households. Tukvvil8's growth and future must include
policies that create thriving, equitable neighborhoods where everyone has the opportunity to live
in a safe, healthy and affordable home in the city of opportunity and the community of choice.
TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - 2015 PAGE 3-2
65
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WHAT IS AFFORDABLE HOUSING?
Total housing expenditures in excess of 30% of
household income is considered "excessive" and
viewed as an indicator of a housing affordability
problem. This definition of affordability was
established under the United States National
Housing Act of 1937.
Average housing costs in Tukwila — $1,191 for
monthly rent or $992 for monthly housing
payments for a three -bedroom unit — are
affordable to households making at least 50-80%
AMI, about $33,120 annually or $16.56 per hour.
Many of the common occupations in Tukwila pay
less than $16.56 per hour; these include cashiers,
$13.55; childcare workers, $11.59; food service
workers, $12.25; and retail salesperson: $15.28.
Occupations that provide a wage needed to
afford market rate housing include bookkeeping
clerk, $20.53; medical assistant, $18.75;
machinist, $25.82; and painter, $19.86.
(Washington State Employment
Security Department, 2013)
ISSUES
In developing the goals and policies for Tukwila's Housing
Element, these issues were identified.
HOUSING AFFORDABILITY
While Tukwila continues to have affordable units for those
at 50-80% of area median income (AMI), more and more
households are struggling to meet their housing costs.
Community poverty has tripled in Tukwila over the past
ten years as evidenced in Census figures and Tukwila
School District demographics (see the Housing Background
Report for more information). Almost half of City residents
are burdened by housing costs, paying more than 30% of
their income for housing. In particular, households who
make 30% or less of the AMI face the greatest struggle to
find affordable housing.
The majority of Tukwila's affordable housing is 'naturally
occurring, meaning that factors such as location and
age of the home result in below regional average costs.
Because future housing development will likely include
redevelopment of existing affordable housing and the
development of new higher cost housing in the Urban
Center, efforts to address the lack of affordable housing for
residents earning less than 30% AMI will most likely require
subsidized housing through partnerships with non-profit
housing groups and other housing stakeholders. Relying
on market forces to provide affordable housing for very
low-income residents will not provide an adequate
quantity, as defined by King County affordable housing
targets, of quality affordable housing.
TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - 2015 PAGE 3-3
66
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HOUSING
HOUSING CONDITION
Most existing single-family homes in Tukwila were constructed before 1970 and the majority of multi-
family homes were constructed between the 1960s-1980s. Aging housing stock typically requires
more money for maintenance, which can be difficult for residents who are already burdened by other
economic stressors such as paying more than 30% of their income for housing. Condition is also
linked to affordability. Naturally occurring affordable housing (housing with market prices that meet
affordability metrics without policies or accompanying subsidies) is often a result of deteriorating
and substandard housing conditions, smaller home size, and older housing stock.
HOME OWNERSHIP OPTIONS
Having a range of housing types to choose from encourages home ownership. This in turn supports
longer term residency and neighborhood stability. Based on 2010 US Census data, home ownership
is relatively low among Tukwila residents, and is decreasing. While less than half of the housing units
in Tukwila are apartments, almost 60% of housing units in the City are renter -occupied. The majority
of the City's housing stock consists of older two -bedroom single-family homes and apartments in
large multi -family developments. This range of housing options does not accommodate residents
in all stages of life, including young adults, multigenerational families, older adults hoping to "age in
place,"and older adults looking to downsize.
COUNTYWIDE AFFORDABILITY TARGETS
King County's Countywide Planning Policies recognize there is an unmet need
for housing that is affordable to households earning less than 80% area median
income (AMI), with the greatest need for households earning 5 0% or less of the
AMI. According to the Countrywide Planning Policies, the Countywide need for
housing by percentage of AMI is:
50-80% AMI (moderate income) 16% of total housing supply
30-50% AMI (low income) 12% of total housing supply
Less than 3 0 % AMI (very low income) 1 2 % of total housing supply
TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - 2015 PAGE 3-4
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HOUSING PROJECTIONS
The Puget Sound Regional Council — the
regional planning organization that develops
growth projections — estimates that Tukwila
will need 4,800 new homes by 2031, and a
total of 5,568 new homes by 2035. Historically,
there has been a large gap between the City's
growth target and number of housing units
constructed. Since the last Comprehensive
Plan update, the City adopted a new plan and
development regulations for its Southcenter
urban center, and new development regulations
in the City's redevelopment area on Tukwila
International Boulevard. Over the next five
years, approved projects in these two areas are
expected to create over 700 new housing units.
This development activity suggests the City will
make substantial progress toward meeting the
housing target of 2035.
GOALS, POLICIES AND
STRATEGIES
The following goals and policies guide Tukwila's
approach to meeting the challenge of revitalizing
residential neighborhoods and encouraging new housing
development, while maintaining affordable housing and
meeting the needs of low-income and special -needs
households.
GOAL 3.1
The City of Tukwila provides the City's fair share
of regional housing.
POLICIES
3.1.1 Provide sufficient zoned housing potential to
accommodate future single- and multi -family
households to meet the regional growth target
of 4,800 new housing units by 2031.
3.1.2 Work with residents and property owners to
consider housing options that meet current and
future needs.
Implementation Strategies
With Council feedback, develop and implement a
neighborhood outreach process to receive public input
from residents and property owners regarding housing
development in residential neighborhoods. Outreach
may include but is not limited to: Citywide and
neighborhood -specific mailings, online and in -person
surveys, fliers, open houses and other events.
Following the neighborhood outreach process,
consider flexible zoning standards to promote housing
options that meet current and future needs. Establish
parameters for design characteristics such as height, lot
coverage, home design features and setbacks.
TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - 2015 PAGE 3-5
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HOUSING
GOAL 3.2
The City of Tukwila has safe, healthy and
affordable homes for all residents in Tukwila.
POLICIES
3.2.1 Provide zoning that allows a variety of housing throughout the City to allow for diverse,
equitable neighborhoods.
3.2.2 Encourage a full range of housing opportunities for all population segments, including
very low-income households earning less than 30% AMI, through actions including, but
not limited to, revising the Tukwila's zoning map and development codes as appropriate,
which would enable a wide variety of housing types to be built.
3.2.3 Provide sufficient appropriate zoning for housing of all types, including government -
assisted housing, housing for low-income families, manufactured housing, multi-
family housing, and group homes and foster care facilities, subject to conditions that
appropriately integrate them into existing neighborhoods.
3.2.4 Work with the owners and managers ofTukwila's new and existing permanent or
long-term low-income housing to maximize desirability, long-term affordability, and
connection with the community.
3.2.5 Develop affordable housing preservation programs and strategies, including prevention
of the displacement of low-income households in areas of redevelopment.
3.2.6 Strive to make alternative and affordable housing options
available for residents currently living in
substandard housing, such as
pre -HUD code mobile homes.
3.2.7 Support the acquisition of housingT
developments by private and
public affordable housing groups,
by acting as a facilitator between
affordable housing groups and
property owners to aid in the
preservation of affordable housing.
TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - 2015 PAGE 3-6
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Implementation Strategies
Following the neighborhood outreach process, consider allowing a detached accessory dwelling
unit in the Low -Density Residential zone on all lots that meet the minimum lot area, when various
appearance and performance criteria related to impacts on adjacent properties are satisfied.
Promote mixed -use developments with ground -level commercial space and residences, at and
above the street level in specified areas.
Using lessons learned and input from the neighborhood outreach process, consider reinstating
the limited demonstration projects for clustered or cottage housing, and allow limited
demonstration projects for innovative housing types not currently supported in the Zoning Code.
Using input from the neighborhood outreach process, explore increasing density in areas
supported by transit to enhance transit -oriented development, and/or in proximity to high -
employment areas.
Identify specific publically-owned land for affordable housing development.
Explore acquiring property to land bank (acquiring land and holding it for future development)
for affordable housing.
Develop specific statements regarding location, type and characteristics of desired housing
affordable to a variety of incomes, for presenting to local for -profit and non-profit developers.
Include supportive services, such as employment training and/or other economic development
services, in affordable housing programs.
Partner with non-profit organizations and for -profit developers to acquire, rehabilitate, construct,
preserve and maintain permanent affordable housing and support services.
TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - 2015 PAGE 3-7
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Explore and develop incentive zoning, a housing trust fund, density bonuses, parking
exemptions, deferred or reduced payment of impact fees, multi -family tax exemptions, and/or
other tools to develop or maintain affordable housing that meets the needs of the community,
specifically units sized and priced for low- and very -low-income residents.
Participate at the regional level, by supporting a South King County Housing and Neighborhood
Planner position to work collaboratively with the Planning, Code Enforcement, and Human
Services Divisions. This position would aid in
the achievement of identified housing needs.
Responsibilities could include pursuing and
overseeing grant opportunities, developing
elationships with for -profit and non-profit
stakeholders for City and regional affordable
housing development, increasing representation
n regional efforts to fund affordable housing,
supporting land use and rental housing programs
to improve the condition of affordable housing
for Tukwila's residents, and exploring establishing
a neighborhood council/liaison program.
GOAL 3.3
The City of Tukwila supports and collaborates with other jurisdictions
and organizations to assess housing needs, coordinate funding, and
preserve and create affordable housing opportunities.
POLICIES
3.3.1 Support the equitable distribution of regional funds, such as Community Development Block
Grants and other federal, State and County funding, to support needed affordable housing.
3.3.2 In a "State of Housing" report, periodically review regional low-income housing goals
to evaluate the City's compliance with regional standards and to ensure that the City's
affordable housing units are being preserved and maintained. Adjust policies as needed if
affordable housing goals are not being met.
3.3.3 Continue supporting very low-, low- and moderate -income housing as defined by King
County income levels, to address the Countywide need by supporting regional affordable
housing development and preservation efforts.
TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - 2015 PAGE 3-8
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RENTAL HOUSING
INSPECTION PROGRAM
Implemented in 2011, the Residential Rental
Licensing and Inspection Program requires
all rental unit owners to obtain an annual
residential rental business license and complete
an inspection every four years. Rental units
must meet code standards, and violations must
be addressed within 30 days. The program
seeks to improve substandard and unsanitary
residential buildings that do not meet State
and local housing and technical codes.
The end of 2014 marked the completion of
the first four-year cycle of inspections, meaning
that inspections were completed for rentals
in each quadrant of the City. A total of 3,641
inspections were conducted during this period,
148 of which failed and were brought into
compliance to pass a subsequent inspection.
implementation Strategies
Partner with other jurisdictions to support regional
funding for affordable housing that serves homeless
individuals and families, and those earning less than
30% of the area median income.
Engage with non-profit developers and King County to
pursue federal and philanthropic funds for affordable
housing.
Enhance and encourage effective partnerships between
land use planners and human service planners.
Foster relationships with owners of privately -owned
multi -family housing to encourage their participation in
voucher programs. and partner with them to preserve
and enhance safe, healthy and affordable housing
options.
Support and encourage legislation at the County, State,
and federal level that promotes affordable housing goals.
GOAL 3.4
The City of Tukwila has an improved and continually
improving housing stock in support of enhanced
neighborhood quality.
POLICIES
3.4.1 Continue to improve the condition of rental
housing through administration of the Residential
Rental Licensing and Inspection Program.
3.4.2 Continue to support the maintenance,
weatherization, rehabilitation, and long-term
preservation or replacement of existing housing
for low- and moderate -income residents.
TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - 2015 PAGE 3-9
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Implementation Strategies
Enforce the International Property Maintenance Code.
Advocate for rehabilitation and weatherization programs for rental units.
Continue the Residential Rental Licensing and Inspection Program.
Explore adoption and enforcement of the National Healthy Housing Standard.
Explore partnerships with non -profits to facilitate the purchase and upgrade of poorly maintained
rental housing.
Support the education of tenants about cost-efficient choices they can make to improve the
health of their housing.
Educate property owners about available resources they can access to improve their rental
housing.
Explore establishing a Housing Trust Fund to provide assistance to low-income homeowners for
connecting to sewer service.
GOAL 3.5
The City of Tukwila includes a full range of housing for persons
in all stages of life and for all members of our community.
POLICIES
3.5.1 Adapt housing design standards to address the needs of all populations.
3.5.2 Assist in providing residents of the community with the human services, economic
development and transportation needed to increase access to housing options.
3.5.3 Continue to develop relationships with populations that have been historically
underserved, and continue to support investment to better serve their needs.
MINOR HOME REPAIR PROGRAM
The City administers the Minor Home Repair Program, which provides and
promotes the repair and maintenance of housing for low- and moderate -
income homeowners. The program is funded through a Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG). The City receives approximately $25,000
in annual funding, and 20-25 homeowners use the program every year.
While this program is a great resource for residents, Tukwila Human Services
estimates the program only meets about 10% of existing need for home repair
and maintenance. Additional funding and partnerships can help to improve
the look and quality of housing throughout the City.
TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - 2015
PAGE 3-10
73
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HOUSING
Implementation Strategies
Continue to support and expand the Community Connector/Community Liaison program.
Pursue collaborations and meaningful dialogue with organizations that work with diverse and
historically underserved populations.
Continue to coordinate City planning and programming among departments as related to
housing options and access.
GOAL 3.6
Increase long-term residency in the City.
POLICIES
3.6.1 Encourage long-term residency by improving neighborhood quality, health and safety.
3.6.2 Encourage long-term residency by providing a range of home
ownership options for persons in all stages of life.
3.6.3 Support neighborhood associations and groups that actively
work to improve neighborhood quality and strengthen sense of
community within the neighborhood.
3.6.4 Continue and expand partnerships with the school districts serving
Tukwila students, in support of programs that seek to improve
school performance and student success.
- • $1s-t,`
Implementation Strategies
Encourage and help market private and public assistance and education programs for first-time
homebuyers.
Continue applying design guidelines.
Continue applying development regulations.
Develop small neighborhood grants for cleanup and community -building events.
Explore creating and supporting a neighborhood liaison program to help develop neighborhood
associations.
TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - 2015 PAGE 3-11
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HOUSING
FAMILY SIZED HOUSING
A city that is good for children is good for all.
Family -sized, family -friendly housing units
contain more than two bedrooms and include
features critical for families, such as areas
where family members can gather for meals
and other activities, sufficient storage space,
a spot for children to do homework, and easy
access to outdoor play and recreations space.
Many types of low -density housing, such as
cottage or clustered housing and duplexes,
provide compatible, attractive and affordable
alternatives to traditional single-family homes.
Allowing a broader mix of housing in single-
family neighborhoods — with access to transit
and proximity to schools, parks, and other child -
oriented infrastructure — can enable and attract
a larger number of families with a wider range
of incomes to live in Tukwila.
Develop relationships with existing homeowner and
neighborhood associations.
Include shared public spaces in new public buildings in
neighborhoods that allow neighborhood gatherings.
Develop a program that allows street closures for block
parties.
Develop a neighborhood block party"kit"for
community use to encourage neighborhood
interaction.
Work with school districts serving Tukwila students to
promote a positive image and reputation of Tukwila's
schools and educational programs.
TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - 2015
PAGE 3-12
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RELATED INFORMATION
Washington State Housing Needs Assessment
VISION 2040
King County Countywide Planning Policies
Tukwila Strategic Plan
Community Conversations
Housing Background Report
TUKWILA COMPREHENSIVE PLAN - 2015 PAGE 3-13
76
S G
TASK FORCE
Summery of
Final Report and
Recommendations
-or King County, WA
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The Task Force recommended a Five -
Year Action Plan as a way to spur the
region into action quickly. The Action
Plan includes seven goals and each goal
has enumber ofstrategies toachieve
the goal. The Action Plan also identifies
specific actions that can betaken inthe
near term to implement the strategies.
While encouraging quick action, the
Plan also establishes the structure for
ongoing collaboration tocarry the work
forward past the five-year action plan.
The region should adopt strategies to
ensure anadequate housing supply
countywide tomeet the needs of
low-income individuals and families
who are [OSt'burdened.This includes
constructing new housing, preserving
the quality and affordability of existing
housing, and providing subsidies when
needed. Public resources should be
prioritized for serving households
earning 5Opercent AM|and below, while
also leveraging private investments to
support affordability from 5Opercent to
8Opercent AK8|.However, private market
participation alone will be insufficient to
address the full need at 80 percentAM|
and below.' These recommendations
are not mandates. They are not intended
to place limits on local actions or
override local control.
l With significant public support (reduced land
costs and fees and significant density), some
markets may beable toincorporate lower
affordability into private market developments.
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Page � Final Report Summary
79
REGIONAL
AFFOR AB E HOUSING
TASK FORCE
OV
FIVE YEAR
ACTIO PLA
RA1CH G GOAL:
Strive to eliminate cost burden for households earning 80 percent
Area Median Income and below, with a priority for serving
households at or below 50 percent Area Median Income.
Create and support ar
collaboratioti
STRATEGY A: Create an Affordable Housing Committee of the Growth Management
Planning Council (GMPC)
i. Maintain a website and prepare an annual report to collect data and report on progress
toward implementing the Action Plan
ii. Review and make recommendations to other governing bodies regarding funding/pursuing
new and innovative financing strategies, land use policies and State legislative agenda items
iii. Make recommendations to the GMPC for Countywide Planning Policies updates and to the
PSRC's Growth Management Policy Board
iv. Coordinate support for increased federal funding
v. Provide technical support to cities and the County and support new and existing sub -
regional collaborations
vi. Review and evaluate the Committee and recommend alternative governance structures if
needed to implement the Action Plan
STRATEGY B: Support the creation and operation of sub -regional collaborations to
increase and preserve affordable housing
i. Support the creation of sub -regional collaborations in all parts of King County
ii. Fund operations of sub -regional collaborations
iii. Encourage the growth and success of existing sub -regional collaborations
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Regional Affordable Housing Task Force Page 3
STRATEGY A:The Affordable Housing Committee will work with cities and the Coll, nty
toidentify and prioritize new resources tobuild vrpreserve 44O0Qunits inthe next
five years and track progress toward the goal
iIdentify revenue sources sufficient tosupport the local share nffunding 44,OOOunits over
five years
iiCollectively advocate to maintain and increase Federal resources directed toward
affordable housing in King County
iii Collectively advocate for increased State resources to support affordable housing in King
County
iv. Explore unused authority to raise revenue to support the goal of building or preserving
44,OOOunits over five years
v. Work with business and philanthropy to increase and effectively leverage private invest-
mentsinaffnrdab|ehousing
vi. Pursue strategies to reduce the cost of developing affordable units
viiMonitor County and city progress toward raising funds necessary toproduce 44,U00units
inthe next five years
STRATEGY B: Make available atmocost, atdeep discount, orfor long term lease,
under-utilized property from State, County, cities, and non-profit/faith communities
i. Expand coordination to identify, acquire and develop property for affordable housing
iiTrack and report progress onRED|fund and Home &Hope
iii. Identify one or more parcels in their boundaries to prioritize for affordable housing
(for -profit or non-profit, new or preserved)
iv. Develop policies for the sale of County -owned property at reduced or no cost when used
for affordable housing, which may beused asamodel ordinance bycities
STRATE�YC: Develop ashort-term acquisition loan fund toenable rapid response to
preserve affordable housing developments when they are put on the market for sale
iIdentify entity tninventory all large B0+unit) privately owned affordable multifamily prop-
erties at risk ofredevelopment or rapid rent escalation
ii. Measure and monitor progress in preserving privately owned affordable housing through
nonprofit orpublic housing authority acquisition, orother means
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81
STRATEGY A: Implement comprehensive inclusionary/incentive housing policies in
all existing and planned frequent transit service toachieve the deepest affordability
possible through land use incentives tnbeidentified bvlocal jurisdictions
i. Provide technical assistance in designing inclusionary/incentive housing programs
iiProvide mebsiteofexample ordinances
iii Propose and apply for state planning dollars
iv. Evaluate and update zoning in transit areas in advance of transit infrastructure
investments
v. Evaluate the impact of development fees in transit areas and implement reductions if
positive impact found
vi. Regularly measure implementation against goal
vii. Coordinate with local housing authorities to use project -based rental subsidies with
incendve/indusionaryhousing units toachieve deeper affordability
STRATEGY B: Maximize resources available for Transit Oriented Development (TT]D)
inthe near term
i. Consider bonding against future Lodging Tax revenues for TOD and use a portion of the
funds ioincenhvizecities tosupport more affordable housing
ii. Evaluate potential for the current Transfer of Development Rights program, which pre-
servesrura|andresource|ands'toincenhvizeaffon1abiUtyoutcomesifaneceivingsiteis
within atransit wa|kshed'among other places
STRATE^YC: Create and implement regional land acquisition and development
strategy
i. Identify priority "pipeline" of property for acquisition and development
ii. Adopt and implement property value discount legislation/guidance as needed, including
updated valuation guidance
iii Fund land acquisition' aligned with Goal 2, Strategy 8
iii. Adopt increased zoning to maximize affordable housing on acquired parcels
iv. Identify entity topurchase and hold land prior toconstruction
v.Fund capital construction and preservation
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Regional Affordable Housing Task Force � Page 5
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STRATEGY A.Propose and support legislation and statewide policies ne|atedtu
tenant protection to ease implementation and provide consistency -for landlords
i. Support the development and adoption of statewide legislation and policy related to tenant
protections
ii. Review proposed statewide policies and legislation
iii. Develop tools landlords can use to help low-income renters, such as a fund landlords can
access to make repairs socosts are not passed on to low-income renters
S'T�,ATEGY 'it: Strive to more widely adopt model, expanded tenant protection
ordinances countywide and provide implementation support
iProvide model ordinances
ii. Pursue a signed ILA for enforcement support
iiiIdentify resources toconduct work
iv. Increase education for tenants and property owners regarding their respective rights and
responsibilities
v. Adopt ordinances as appropriate
ATEGY C: Expand supports for low-income renters and people with disabilities
iUtilize funds from the Veterans, Seniors and Human Services Levy for shallow rent
subsidies to help keep people intheir homes
!I.Increase funding for emergency rental assistance
iiiIncrease deep rental subsidies (in addition toshaUmw)
iv. Fund services to address barriers to housing
v.Expand civil legal aid support
viExpand education oftenant and property owner rights and responsibilities
vii. Increase funding for services that help people with disabilities stay in their homes and/or
age inplace
pal"e 6 � Final Report Summary
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Strategy D: Adopt programs and policies to improve the quality of housing in
conjunction with necessary tenant protections
L Adopt and implement proactive rental inspection policies
iiImplement robust, proactive code enforcement programs, inpartnershipwithmaqgina|ized
communities toavoid inequitable impacts
iii. Invest in community health workers to promote healthy housing education and housing
maintenance for highest risk ofadverse health outcomes
iv. Partner with Aging & Disability organizations to integrate accessibility services
STP�ATEGY A: Authentically engage communities of color and low-income
communities in affordable housing development and policy decisions
iProvide capacity grants rnsmall organizations representing communities ofcolor orlow-
income communitiestosupporttheirengagementinaffordab|ehousingdeve|upment
ii. Contract for a tool kit/checklist on community engagement in planning discussions
iii. Utilize the toolkit and intentionally include and solicit engagement from members of
communities of color or low-income households in policy decision -making and committees
STWEGY 'it: Increase investments incommunities ofcolor and low-income
communities bydeveloping programs and policies that serve individuals and
families atrisk ofdisp|acernent
i. Use Seattle's Equitable Development Initiative as a model for how government can invest in
under -represented communities to promote comm unity+driven development
ii. Build upon the work of the Communities of Opportunity initiative
iii. Include cities, investors, and community -based organizations in development of
certification process and matching dollars for socially responsible, equitable Opportunity
Zone investments that prevent displacement
iv, Expand requirements toaffirmatively market housing programs andenhanoewmrkto
align affordable housing strategies with federal requirements toAffirmatively Further Fair
Housing
v. Encourage homeownership opportunities as a way to prevent displacement within
communities of color while also promoting the growth of intergenerational wealth
vi. Where appropriate, acquire and preserve manufactured housing communities to prevent
displacement
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Regional Affordable Housing Task �Force � Paoe 7
ST11"ATEGY A:Update zoning and land use regulations (including imsingle-family low- CIO t_1
rise zones) toincrease and diversify housing choices
i Provide model ordinances
ii. lincentivize cities adopting and implementing strategies that will result in the highest impact
towards addressing the affordable housing gap, specifically atthe lowest income levels
iii. Review and update zoning and land use code to increase density
iv. Explore opportunities to pilot innovative housing in industrial zones, with a focus on TOD
and industrial buffer zones
v.Update building codes topromote more housing growth and innovative, low-cost
development
vi. As part of any updated zoning, to evaluate feasibility of incorporating affordable housing
provisions
vii. Promote units that accommodate large households and/or multiple bedrooms
STRATEGY B: Decrease costs to build and operate housing affordable to low-income
households
iMaximize and expand use ofMulti-Family Tax Exemption
ii. Reduce sewer fees for affordable housing
iii. Reduce utility, impact and other fees for affordable housing and Accessory Dwelling Units
(\DUs)
iv. Streamline permitting process for affordable housing development and ADUs
v. Support condominium liability reform
viExempt affordable housing from sales tax
vii. Explore incentives similar to the Multi -Family Tax Exemption for the development of ADUs
for low-income households
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Pa�eO � Final Report Summary
85
STRATEGY C:|ncen1ivizegrowth and affordability goals bvexpanding tools for
investments in local infrastructure
i. Advocate for a strong, equitable financing tool that captures va I ue from development to fund infra-
structure
ii. Advocate for state public works trust fund investments
STRAT"EGYD: Expand and preserve homeownership opportunities for low-income
households
i. Increase educational efforts to ensure maximum use of property tax relief programs to
help sustain homeownership for low-income individuals
ii. Support alternative homeownership models that lower barriers to ownership and provide
long-term affordability
iii. Expand targeted foreclosure prevention
iv. Where appropriate, preserve existing manufactured housingcommunkiesdhroughuu-
speciUczoningortnansferofdeve|opmentrights
u Encourage programs to help homeowneo(esp. low-income) access financing, technical sup-
port or other tools needed to participate in and benefit from infiUdevelopment opportunities
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STRATEGY A: Support engagement oflocal communities and reside/�tsinp|anning
efforts to achieve more affordable housing
i. Develop toolkits and strategies to better engage neighborhoods and residents in affordable
housing development
ii. Use existing data and tools to greatest extent possible, i.e. PSRC Vision 2050 work
iii. Use community engagement techniques that promote more equitable community engage-
mentinzoningandsidngdecisions
ST:IWEGY@: Expand engagement ofnon-governmental partners (phi|anthnnpy
employers, ir'vestors,private developers and faith cm� tosupport efforts
to build and site more affordable housing
i[reate stakeholder partnerships with business, philanthropy, non-pnofitsfaith-based
organizations, the health care sector, and others to encourage investments in affordable housing
1iEncourage business, organized labor, and philanthropy tosupport public dialogue on
affordable housing
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Regional Affordable Housing Task �Force � Page 9