CITY OF SEATTLE
ORDINANCE __________________
COUNCIL BILL __________________
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AN ORDINANCE relating to taxation; imposing a local sales and use tax to fund investments in affordable and supportive housing; adding new Sections 5.60.025 and 5.60.027 to the Seattle Municipal Code; amending Section 5.60.030 of the Seattle Municipal Code; and ratifying and confirming certain prior acts.
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WHEREAS, existing sources of funding for affordable housing and permanent supportive housing are insufficient to meet the needs of all individuals and families experiencing housing cost burden, displacement, and homelessness in Seattle; and
WHEREAS, Seattle residents and families experiencing severe housing cost burden, displacement, and homelessness are disproportionately people of color; and
WHEREAS, investments in affordable housing provide access to opportunity for low-wage workers and their families, increase mobility from poverty, and foster inclusive communities accessible to all; and
WHEREAS, investing in permanent supportive housing is a proven, cost-effective, and humane solution to provide stability, security, and access to critical health and social services for people exiting homelessness; and
WHEREAS, for over 35 years, the Seattle Office of Housing has invested in affordable housing and permanent supportive housing across the city; and
WHEREAS, The City of Seattle recognizes the urgent need to increase investments in the production, preservation, and ongoing operation and maintenance of affordable housing and permanent supportive housing; and
WHEREAS, solving the homelessness and affordability crisis requires partnership between federal, state, regional, and local government; and
WHEREAS, during the 2019 session, the Washington State Legislature enacted SHB 1406 (published as Chapter 338, Laws of 2019) that authorizes cities that have enacted a qualifying local tax, such as The City of Seattle's 2016 housing levy under RCW 84.55.050, to impose a local sales a...
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