HomeMy WebLinkAboutPCD 2023-08-07 COMPLETE AGENDA PACKETCity of Tukwila
Planning and Community
Development Committee
O Kathy Hougardy, Chair
O De'Sean Quinn
O Thomas McLeod
AGENDA
MONDAY, AUGUST 7,2023— 5:30 PM
Distribution:
K. Hougardy
D. Quinn
T. McLeod
C. Delostrinos Johnson
Mayor Ekberg
D. Cline
R. Bianchi
C. O'Flaherty
A. Youn
L. Humphrey
THIS MEETING WILL BE CONDUCTED USING A HYBRID MODEL, WITH ATTENDANCE
AVAILABLE BOTH ON-SITE AT TUKWILA CITY HALL AND ALSO VIRTUALLY.
ON-SITE PRESENCE WILL BE IN THE HAZELNUT CONFERENCE ROOM
(6200 SOUTHCENTER BOULEVARD)
THE PHONE NUMBER FOR THE PUBLIC TO LISTEN TO THIS
MEETING Is: 1-253-292-9750, Access Code 225526605#
Click here to: Join Microsoft Teams Meeting
For Technical Support during the meeting call: 1-206-433-7155.
Item
Recommended Action
Page
1. BUSINESS AGENDA
a. An update on the Economic Development Strategy.
a. Discussion only.
Pg.1
[continued from 7/17/23 Planning and Community
Development Committee meeting.]
Derek Speck, Economic Development Administrator
b. An update on renter protection proposals.
b. Committee decision.
Pg.9
Laurel Humphrey, Legislative Analyst
2. MISCELLANEOUS
Next Scheduled Meeting: August2l, 2023
SThe City of Tukwila strives to accommodate individuals with disabilities.
Please contact the City Clerk's Office at 206-433-1800(TukwilaCityClerk@TukwilaWA.gov) for assistance.
City of Tukwila
Allan Ekberg, Mayor
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
TO: Planning and Community Development Committee
FROM: Derek Speck, Economic Development Administrator
DATE: August 1, 2023
SUBJECT: Economic Development Strategy Update: Draft Strategies and Actions
ISSUE
Staff would like to provide an update on the creation of the Economic Development Strategy with a
focus on the draft strategies and actions.
BACKGROUND
In June 2022 the City Council authorized the Mayor to execute a contract with Community Attributes,
Inc. (CAI) to create an Economic Development Strategy for the City. In August 2022 the Council
provided input on the community engagement plan and staff began the engagement process. In
October 2022 the Planning and Community Development Committee (PCD) provided early input into
the Strategy. In December 2022 PCD provided feedback on a draft vision statement and goals. In
early 2023 the project was temporarily put on hold. In July 2023 PCD reviewed the revised draft
vision statement and goals, the draft landscape assessment, and results from community
engagement to date. In July 2023 CAI conducted focus groups, interviewed stakeholders, and
proposed draft strategies and actions.
DISCUSSION
Staff is seeking the Committee's feedback on the draft strategies and actions (attached). CAI and staff
will then incorporate the feedback and return to PCD on September 18 with a complete draft of the
economic development strategy and supporting documents.
In addition to the Economic Development Strategy, staff has begun work on the update to the
economic development chapter of the City's Comprehensive Plan. Staff is scheduled to present the
proposed update to the Planning Commission on September 28.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Not applicable.
RECOMMENDATION
For discussion.
ATTACHMENTS
Draft Economic Development Strategy Vision, Goals, Strategies, and Actions
1
2
Economic Development Strategy
DRAFT Vision, Goals, Strategies, and Actions
August 1, 2023
Vision: Tukwila is a vibrant community with a strong and sustainable economy that celebrates and
empowers its diversity, supports economic prosperity for all residents, and sustains a foundation for
businesses of all sizes.
Goal 1: A Vibrant, Diverse, and Resilient Economy
Continue to strengthen and balance business growth, workforce development, and strategic housing
growth in Tukwila to ensure an adaptable and diverse economic base that leverages Tukwila's many
assets and ensures the City's financial stability.
Strategy 1A. Attract and retain office, R&D, high-tech manufacturing, aerospace, and life
sciences businesses.
Example actions:
• In the course of outreach to local businesses, assess the degree to which zoning and
related standards support business operations.
• Promote Tukwila to the priority business sectors by building relationships with key firms
and understanding their land, facility, infrastructure, and workforce needs.
• Actively assist businesses that also confer strong net financial benefit to Tukwila's
municipal revenue streams.
Strategy 18. Maintain support for and strengthen Tukwila's robust retail, dining, lodging, and
experiences sector.
Example actions:
• Continue and grow the Experience Tukwila program to proactively market shopping,
dining, and entertainment options available in Tukwila through targeted social media
posts and individual business highlights in appropriate forums.
• Host events, activities, pop -ups, and / or temporary markets that activate public spaces
and underutilized surface parking lots and contribute buzz and energy to surrounding
commercial districts.
• Continue supporting Explore Seattle Southside to market activities and amenities that
actively promote Tukwila as an option for overnight stays and layover breaks for air
travelers.
• Promote the Tukwila International Boulevard neighborhood as an authentic,
international district welcoming to visitors.
3
• Promote Southcenter's free parking availability and ease of access regionally to draw
additional traffic.
• Utilize existing channels to highlight, both to businesses and consumers, how Tukwila
offers a fundamentally different experience than available in Seattle.
• Leverage Tukwila's location and infrastructure to attract traffic and spending from
passengers at SeaTac International Airport.
• Strengthen and diversify hotel offerings that contribute to vibrancy in Tukwila's
commercial districts.
• Assess the feasibility of—or provide support for—developing additional convention or
meeting space.
• Identify opportunities to better connect Tukwila International Boulevard (or the Tukwila
International Boulevard station) with the Southcenter District.
• Evaluate the feasibility of a trolley or other "circulator" linking the TIB Station with
businesses along International Boulevard and Southcenter.
Strategy 1C. Collaborate with the private sector to ensure that catalytic development sites
improve the desirability of living, working, and playing in Tukwila.
Example actions:
• Inventory all major developable and redevelopable sites in Tukwila, gathering
information on ownership, zoning, and known development constraints.
• Prepare criteria for the development of publicly owned sites that may be available for
future disposition.
• Work with the landowner to review and renew, as necessary, the Tukwila South
development agreement to ensure the vision for this important future employment
center is realized.
• Consider incentives and other tools such as the multi -family property tax exemption
(MFTE) and tax increment financing (TIF) to incentivize private investment and new
development to achieve the city's vision.
• Continue to partner with the King County Flood Control District and US Army Corps of
Engineers to monitor, maintain, and improve Tukwila's levee systems and banks on the
Green and Duwamish Rivers to ensure sustainable flood protection and increased
environmental restoration and improved habitat.
Strategy 1E. Implement the subarea plans for Tukwila international Boulevard and the
Southcenter District, with an emphasis on walkability, placemaking, and community gathering
opportunities.
Example actions:
• Seek opportunities to improve the experience in the Southcenter District, such as
improving the public experience of Tukwila Pond Park; improving Baker Boulevard as a
4
festival street; creating better pedestrian experiences; and connecting Westfield
Southcenter to the commuter train station.
• Seek opportunities to improve the Tukwila International Boulevard neighborhood by
creating a walkable, pedestrian friendly experience along the Boulevard, incentivizing
development on the Boulevard, leveraging the sale of City property for catalyst
development, and fostering the international experience for visitors.
Strategy 1 F. Build and maintain relationships with key property owners and businesses.
Example actions:
• Create and maintain a business contacts database
• Participate in networking opportunities
• Conduct a business outreach program
• Issue a business e -newsletter
Goal 2. A Safe and Desirable Community with a Positive Identity
Enhance Tukwila's public safety perceptions and sense of place and support a positive identity as a city in
which to "Live, Work, and Play" — a community of choice for businesses and residents with outstanding
transportation, quality housing, and supportive services.
Strategy 2A. Improve perceptions of public safety through crime reduction, visible
enforcement, improved communications, and messaging.
Example actions:
• Support staffing and resources for public safety
• Invite key property owners and businesses to collaborate on public safety measures such
as private security, information sharing, and property management practices.
Strategy 28. Invest in placemaking efforts that instill community pride, improve quality of life,
and invite visitors.
Example actions:
• Continue and seek to scale up public art and utility box art projects that are currently
underway.
• Seek opportunities to leverage enjoyment of the Green River Trail and the river itself for
economic development.
• Seek opportunities to improve Tukwila Pond for public enjoyment.
• Actively attract businesses that provide fun and positive experiences and build on
synergy with existing businesses.
5
Strategy 2D. Promote positive aspects of the Tukwila community to the region.
Example actions:
• Continue and expand the Experience Tukwila social media and sponsorships program.
• Continue and expand Tukwila's family friendly activities hosted by the City, partners, and
outside organizations.
Goal 3. Prosperity and Opportunity for Businesses, Workers, and Residents
Expand avenues of durable economic success for workers, entrepreneurs, business owners, and
residents in Tukwila with a focus on shared prosperity, opportunity, and social responsibility for local
communities.
Strategy 3A. Improve awareness of, and access to, education and workforce development
resources.
Example actions:
• Dedicate staff time to participate in workforce development and networking with
workforce partners.
• Vocally advocate for and promote Tukwila's specific workforce needs to workforce
development organizations.
• Create and maintain an online directory of organizations and services in Tukwila
providing workforce development, language training, internship and apprenticeship
opportunities, and employment assistance.
• Promote workforce development opportunities, including training, workshops,
education, and resources, directly to Tukwila residents.
Strategy 38. Facilitate connections between employers and education and workforce
development institutions.
Example actions:
• Organize an event series to connect high school counselors and teachers to local
industry representatives in high-growth and / or target sectors, such as biotech, media
arts, and others.
• Leverage the success of the Tukwila School District's Career & Technical Education (CTE)
programs by expanding student recruitment and program offerings, and by providing
networking assistance to local employers, or otherwise connecting CTE teachers with
private sector contacts.
• Connect with local employers' human resources staff to understand their needs and
connect them with workforce development organizations.
6
Goal 4. A Supportive Environment for Small Business and Entrepreneurs
Maintain a strong, supportive environment for local, independent, small, and micro -businesses and the
entrepreneurial ecosystem to ensure they continue to flourish in Tukwila while attracting new business
activities to the City.
Strategy 4A. Where possible, ease regulations that challenge small businesses.
Example actions:
• Explore ways to adjust Tukwila's signage code in order to highlight Tukwila's small
business offerings.
• Consider relaxing strict signage restrictions to allow greater flexibility of expression,
branding, and identity in business signage.
• Examine internal processes for burdens on small businesses and remove whenever
possible.
• Encourage the founding and development of home-based, virtual, mobile, and / or pop-
up businesses that don't require brick -and -mortar locations with incentives and / or
relaxing business licensing, permitting, fees, or other requirements.
Strategy 48. Ensure that business and entrepreneurial resources are accessible to all.
Example actions:
• Continue and expand support for technical assistance consulting services to guide small
businesses on matters ranging from taxes, business loans, permitting, lease negotiation,
and hiring.
• Seek out and promote resources that of no -interest funding models for small businesses.
• Translate key small business materials into languages present in the Tukwila community
and stress -test translations with community partners.
• Identify partners, sites, and financing avenues to develop community small-business and
entrepreneur facilities such as commissary kitchens, maker spaces, community tool
sheds, and others.
Strategy 4C. Ensure that Tukwila projects an 'open for business' mentality.
Example actions:
• Develop a communication strategy to emphasize the city's accessibility to its business
community.
• Identify and track metrics related to permitting and entitlements timelines and work
toward continuous improvement.
7
Goal 5. A Community that Celebrates and Invites Diversity.
Foster a business community in Tukwila that welcomes and empowers residential and business diversity
in all its forms while capturing increased market share and building resilience to economic shocks.
Example actions:
• Celebrate Tukwila's diversity through targeted support, asset development, and
promotion.
• Highlight & promote a rotating roster of individual minority and immigrant -owned small
businesses in Tukwila's existing social media communications.
• Identify resources and support to continue to cultivate ethnic shopping districts,
including cuisine, and pursue recognition as a world-class street food destination.
• Survey minority and immigrant -owned small businesses to identify which culturally
relevant business services the City should provide to small business owners in Tukwila.
• Educate and connect minority and immigrant -owned businesses on the availability of
grant and low- to no -interest loan programs at local, state, and federal levels.
• Evaluate Tukwila's business license fee, business and occupations tax, development
impact fees and consider other revenue sources such as a transportation benefit district
to determine if the taxes and fees can be simplified and improved.
8
City of Tukwila
Allan Ekberg, Mayor
INFORMATIONAL MEMORANDUM
T0: Planning and Community Development Committee
FROM: Laurel Humphrey, Legislative Analyst
Kari L. Sand, City Attorney
Nora Gierloff, AICP, Director DCD
DATE: July 27, 2023
SUBJECT: Renter Protection Policy Proposals
ISSUE
The Transit Riders Union (TRU) approached the City Council about adding additional
regulations/protections for tenants in Tukwila.
BACKGROUND
The Planning and Community Development Committee discussed the proposals at its May 1,
2023 meeting and requested that the City Attorney prepare a preliminary opinion on legal
risk prior to any legislation being drafted. This memo provides that analysis as well as
comments from the DCD Director on the proposed changes to the Residential Rental Business
License & Inspection Program and suggestions for gathering community feedback.
City Attorney Analysis
Attached as Exhibit 1 is a "Renter Protections Comparison Chart" provided by the Transit Riders
Union ("TRU"), which shows other jurisdictions that have adopted renter protections greater
than Washington state law. Attached as Exhibit 2 is the "TRU Renter Protections Policy
Proposal," which has been color coded based on legal risk using a traffic light metaphor, as
explained further below, with some additional comments from the Tukwila City Attorney's
Office. The color -coded categories are explained as follows.
GREEN: Po I hat carrj9 s" k ti+w a hal beenr :"'na ad b' i es of si `sLa
t T La
• The "GUT " proposed policies include:
o Requiring additional notice of rent increases regarding 120 days' notice if the
increase is greater than 3% and 180 -days' notice if the increase is greater than
5%;
o Capping move -in costs as proposed by TRU;
o Enacting just cause protections;
o Establishing a proactive education and outreach program to inform tenants of
their rights;
o Posting requirements in a public area (if possible) and documentation provided
at time of lease signing and annually thereafter; and
9
o Prohibiting rent increases for units not passing inspection due to unsafe or poor
conditions.
• Alternatives to some of the proposed policies that would be "green" may include:
o Capping late fees at 1.5%-2% of monthly rent
• The "green" policies present relatively low risk if approved by the Tukwila City Council
and have been enacted by similar cities, including SeaTac. These policies present low
legal risk because they have been: (1) unchallenged thus far and (2) do not conflict with
state law. This is particularly true regarding just cause protections. The state enacted a
just case law in 2021, requiring landlords to specify a reason for refusing to continue a
residential tenancy, subject to certain limitations, and allowing cities to impose more
expansive just cause provisions, provided they do not prohibit landlords from initiating
proper unlawful detainer actions unless specific just cause requirements are met. RCW
59,18,650; see Rental Housing Ass'n of Wash. v. City of Burien, 2022 WL 3715061 (Wash.
Ct. App. Aug. 29, 2022). The so-called "lease loophole," as described by TRU, allows
landlords to evict people on yearlong leases without reason by not renewing their lease.
See RCW 59.18.650!;1 )-(c). SeaTac enacted a just cause ordinance that is stronger
than the State's; however, it retained the lease loophole, though other jurisdictions
(e.g., Seattle, Auburn, Federal Way, Kenmore, and unincorporated King County) have
removed the loophole. See STMC 4.05.090. Additionally, the policies regarding
establishing a proactive education and outreach program in addition to posting
requirements and providing documentation are similar to "Tenant Information
Packets" provided in cities such as Auburn, Burien, and SeaTac. These cities all require
that those packets be publicly available and provided to tenants by landlords (note:
Tukwila is currently working on a Language Access Plan to provide more city documents
in the community's top languages, and tenant information will be included). Thus,
those specific requirements are likely to have a low legal risk and have been
implemented in similar cities to Tukwila.
10
• The
" proposed policies include:
o Allowing tenants to end a lease early for rent increases over 5%;
o Capping late fees at $10;
o Banning most winter evictions;
o Broadly strengthening Tukwila's rental property inspection program;
o Regulating additional fees and costs added to rent;
o Removing social security number ("SSN") requirements;
o Allowing renters on fixed income to change the rent due date; and
o Banning deceptive and abusive practices.
• The "yellow" policies present a relatively medium level of legal risk and largely have not
been enacted by cities similar to Tukwila. These policies present a medium level of legal
risk because they are: (1) arguably in conflict with state law, (2) have not been used in
cities with limited staff resources, such as Tukwila, and (3) may place an increased
burden on the City. Neither the right for tenants to leave a lease early for rent increases
over 5%, nor regulation of additional fees and costs added to rent (except for delivery
fees in Seattle) have been enacted by any city highlighted by TRU. Thus, these proposed
policies are largely untested, may be challenged, and may not survive legal scrutiny by
a court. Additionally, while the removal of SSN requirements and allowing renters on
fixed income to change their rent due date have both been enacted by SeaTac, the
proposed policies may conflict with state and/or federal law, and though they have
been unchallenged thus far, would carry legal risk as a result. Finally, banning deceptive
and unfair practices would require a significant number of resources and would be
difficult to enforce based on Tukwila's relatively limited staffing resources, thereby
carrying legal risk; additionally, neither similar cities nor Seattle have enacted this
policy. The same is true for broadly strengthening Tukwila's rental property inspection
program. While some specific provisions carry low legal risk, others are untested and
may expose the City to difficulty with enforcement and potential legal challenges.
RED: Policies that carry hi h ea risk, a ad1ess ` enactment by ther A
jurisdictions
• The "RED" proposed policies include:
o Requiring relocation assistance for rent increases beyond what is required by
the State;
o Banning most evictions of families and educators during the school year;
o Enacting a Fair Chance Housing law; and
o Enacting a first -in -time ("FIT") rental application law.
• The "red" proposed policies present a relatively high level of legal risk. These policies
present a high level of legal risk because they are: (1) clearly in conflict with existing law,
11
(2) controversial, and (3) place a very high burden on landlords. Additionally, all these
policies have only been enacted by Seattle, and many have already been subject to legal
challenges. Relocation assistance for rent increases as proposed by TRU seems to go far
beyond the limitations outlined in State law (note: Tukwila currently requires relocation
assistance under chapter 8.46 TMC when a rental unit fails inspection to such a degree
that the conditions endanger life safety, and failure to obtain a Certificate of
Compliance will result in the non -issuance or revocation of the rental business license
for that unit. See TMC 5.06.120.). See RCW 59.18.440. It would additionally impose a
significant burden on landlords. For example, while state law only requires relocation
assistance for low-income tenants under specific circumstances and limits assistance
to $2,000 or less with the owner only responsible for one-half of the assistance, TRU's
proposal would require assistance equal to three months' rent for tenants in all income
brackets in some cases and would create a private right of action. This goes far beyond
most protections for tenants and would perhaps unfairly burden landlords. While the
bans on certain types of evictions have been upheld in some courts, they are still
controversial and would likely expose the City up to legal challenge if implemented. The
same is true for the proposed first -in -time rental application law. Finally, the fair chance
housing law is currently in conflict with existing law, as the Ninth Circuit recently held
that Seattle's fair chance housing law was impermissible and that cities may not
prohibit landlords from inquiring about the criminal history of current or potential
tenants. Yim v. City of Seattle, 63 F.4th 783 (9th Cir. 2023). Thus, an enactment of the same
policy would be illegal based on the holding in the Yim case.
Rental Housing Program
Some of the TRU proposals are already part of Tukwila's practices. For example, we advertise
the availability of "courtesy inspections" for tenants concerned about their living conditions
on the rental licens n webpage and in the Hazelnut newsletter, as shown below. However,
some tenants are reluctant to ask for inspections due to fear of retaliation, so code language
to protect them could be considered.
12
Renting in Tukwila
All rental units in Tukwila are required to be
licensed and inspected. To check the status of
your rental unit or unit that you are interested
n renting, or to request a courtesy rental
inspection, please contact the Rental Housing
Program at RentalHousing@TukwiLaWA.gov or
206-431.3674.
Kiraystayaasha Tukwila
Dhammaan guryaha kirada ah ee Tukwila :vaxa
ooga baahan yahay inay haystaan shati iyo
kormeer.51 aad u hubiso xaaladagungaaga
Jaarka ama guriga aad xiisaynayso inaad
k ray+tate„ama si aad u codsato korrneer kiro oo
xushmad ieh, kala xidlhudh Barnaamijka Guryaha
Kirada ee RentalHousing@TukwilaWA.gov ama
206 431-3674.
Afgtia thue nha d Tukwila
Tat ca cat don vi cho thue d Tukwila deu phai
duoc cap phep va kiem tra De kiem tra tinh
trang cua don vi cho thue hoac don vi ma ban
muon thue; hoar de yeu cau kiem tra nha cho
thue Lich su, vui long lien he vol Chuong trinh Nha
cho thue tai RentalHousrng@TukwiiaWA.gov
hoac 206-431-3674.
Alquilar en Tukwila
nidades de aiquileren Tukwila deben
terser ircencia e inspection Para consultar
el estado de su unidad de alquiler o unidad
que le mteresa alquilar, o para solicitar una
inspect on de alquiler de cortesia, cornuniquese
con el Programa de viviendas de a[quikr en
RentatHousing@TukwitaWA.gov a 2206.431-3574.
As a pilot project this year we are offering city inspection of up to 12 -unit buildings to assess
the impact on staff workload. Legally we must allow any property owner to select a qualified
inspector of their choice. We have encountered only a few low -quality outside inspectors over
the years, but as TRU suggests, we could consider a more systematic audit of these third -
party inspectors rather than the complaint or issue driven process we have now. The annual
license renewal process would be an effective way to communicate any changes to rental
regulations adopted by Council to Tukwila's rental property owners.
Public Outreach
Staff suggests conducting outreach to seek feedback on the proposals that the Committee
would like to consider. Following are suggested methods:
• Councilmember discussions with constituents
• Online survey
• Article in Hazelnut or E -Hazelnut, depending on timing
• Email to all current Board & Commission members
• Notice to landlords enrolled in Residential Rental Business License and Inspection
Program and rental housing associations
• Notice to Community Based Organizations
• Information page on City website
RECOMMENDATION
Staff is seeking Committee direction on next steps, which could include public outreach and
developing legislation. It would be helpful to know which specific policy proposals the
Committee is interested in pursuing.
ATTACHMENTS
Exhibit 1: TRU Renter Protections Comparison Chart
Exhibit 2: TRU Renter Protections Policy Proposal with color -coding.
13
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17
18
Tukwila Renter Protection Policy Proposals
Submitted by Transit Riders Union 4/3/23
Additional •notice of rent increases: Washington state has 60 -days' notice required, but
nearby jurisdictions have gone above and beyond to allow for additional time to plan ahead
and/or seek new housing in response to large rent increases — see Renter Protections
Comparison Chart — Exhibit 1. The Washington State Legislature considered but did not
pass similar protections (HB 1124).
o 120 days if >3%
o 180 days if >5%
Cap on matesin costs: Most families do not have adequate savings and little excess income
to pay multiple months of rent in advance in addition to moving costs. This creates a barrier
that makes it more difficult for families to relocate; it sometimes traps people in rental
situations that they cannot afford or traps people in dangerous or abusive situations.
o Any upfront costs over and above the 1st month's rent are capped at a total of 1 -month
rent, with a right to pay in installments over 6 months (or 2 months for leases shorter
than 6 months).
Cap on laic lees: With no regulation on late fees, it is very easy for families to become
permanently behind on rent and stuck in a cycle of escalating fees and debt. Renters
consistently prioritize rent over other bills to avoid eviction; large late fees are not needed to
incentivize paying on time. Service providers that aid in helping stabilize the living situation
for families behind on rent can do more when less of their assistance is spent on exorbitant
late fees.
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Washington state has some protections whereby landlords must
give a just cause for evicting a tenant or terminating a lease. Other jurisdictions, including
Federal Way, Auburn, and unincorporated King County, and Seattle, have strengthened this
law and closed a loophole that excludes many renters on fixed term leases.
• Relocation assistance: When property owners seek to dramatically increase rents, and
thereby profit from future tenants, current tenants forced to relocate bear the financial burden
for landlord's future gain. Landlord -paid relocation assistance helps ensure families can safely
find new housing that works within their budget and softens the cost of moving.
o Relocation assistance equal to three months' rent for housing cost increases of 10% or
more. Unlike Seattle's program, this would be a direct transaction between tenant and
property owner. A similar policy exists in Portland, OR, and is being considered in
Tacoma.
o Enforcement through private right of action. Other jurisdictions and proposals require
property owners to submit a report to the city to confirm payment was made, which
may assist tenants in enforcing this protection.
iovtiW, p6n4'.,:,tzl: Tukwila has a standing
registration and inspection program that is intended to ensure safe living conditions for rental
units in the city. Many tenants still experience unsafe living conditions, and currently there is
little protection for tenants wishing to seek remedies for these unsafe conditions.
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remixoes tor chi:no-cause eviction ibr hilimar \holahmii
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lincsiara,iraithies phhiihrhy (ivialtihs hasihica in a
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but the ciasi,i hyhtkii authoray 1:(,) colkii.ct„ and We Uries are not significant Lc.)
deter iiii.olaitions„
O Establish a proactive education and outreach program to let tenants know they have a
right to an inspection and al -Khoo 'Hams:a, efficrinco ieNpeceion pmpram
to be more eicark7 usmant
0 Posting renter protections in a pithlic arca (ifipossible) and documentation provided at
time (,),f lease signing and annually' thereafter„
ia No rent increases permitted for units drat, have thiled to pass inspection or are in the
process of being, inspected at. the request of a. tenant, or have outstanding requests for
repairs, or have defective conditions making the dwelling unlivable, or are otherwise
in violation of RCN 59.1 8„060, (SeaTac has adopted this protection„)
harraiiisi„-i itudgis and iiiihiaasai. efficacy et:third. paily nhipection companies, and assess
ithishahiges shou'd made, MC:hi:ding NMA111111,,,;; haVIng the ty pertdiTZ1
Regulate additio,nal lees and costs added to rent, Property owners, especially corporate
landlords, are increasingly charging a wide variety of arbitrary fees for everything from
delivering a notice to signing a lease renewal to turning on the HVAC. Layering on fees can
also be a strategy to get around some renter protection laws.
o Ensure that rent increase notice requirements and relocation assistance are based on
an increase in total housing costs (including all fixed monthly charges paid to the
landlord, e.g. parking, pet rent, storage, flat utility fees) and not just base rent.
o Ban or limit other types of fees including notice delivery fees, "admin" and lease
renewal fees, month-to-month fees, "service" and "billing" fees, etc.
• Remove Social security number requirements„ Other jurisdictions including Burien,
Kenmore, and Redmond have recognized the need for families to have access to housing as a
human right, regardless of immigration status. Creating barriers for people to find homes is
harmful to the whole community. (Burien, Kenmore, King County, Redmond, and SeaTac
have adopted this protection.)
• Allow renters on fixed income to change rent due datei Renters living on a fixed income
are better able to budget their limited funds when their due date better aligns with the date
they receive their payments, without any additional cost to a property owner. State law allows
only a 5 -day adjustment. (Burien, Kenmore, King County, Redmond & SeaTac allow this.)
lo Bark tilticeptive and a busiVe pira ctir es. In general, property owners and management
understand landlord -tenant laws better than the average renter. Unfortunately, some landlords
exploit this gap and lie about what rights a tenant has, for example, by telling tenants they
must pay for repairs that are actually the landlord's responsibility. Better defining and
establishing clearer consequences for such behavior can help.
* Additional. protections worth considering. Nearly all the protections above have some
precedent in King County cities. In addition, Seattle has passed some further protections
Tukwila might consider:
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Ban on most evictions f families & educators during school year
Fair Chance Housing law (no criminal background checks)
Firstrinhime rental application law
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