The second Federal Administration and Policy Changes committee meeting focuses on housing issues

Seattle City Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck (Position 8) announced key details and the date of the second meeting of the Select Committee on Federal Administration and Policy Changes. This Select Committee will feature a roundtable on housing issues and take place next Thursday, April 3 at 2 p.m.

“Our affordable housing system relies on federal dollars. Low Income Housing Tax Credits, federal block grants, and vouchers all sustain our ability to provide subsidized housing. During COVID alone, over 1,300 Emergency Housing Vouchers were dispersed throughout King County and every month, Seattle Housing Authority provides voucher support for thousands of families. Rising construction and operating costs have made it increasingly difficult to build subsidized housing, a critical resource for people being priced out of Seattle.

“While we need to work to break down barriers to housing development and increase the supply of housing through land use and permitting reform, subsidized housing will also be an important part of the continuum. Without immediate and bold local action, these federal policy changes will absolutely result in more people being on the brink, with more Seattleites experiencing homelessness throughout the community.” said Councilmember Rinck.

The roundtable centering on Housing Issues will feature government and community partner organizations. Panelists include the King County Regional Homelessness Authority, Enterprise Community Partners, Chief Seattle Club, Hunt Capital, and Downtown Emergency Service Center.

Upcoming committee dates are scheduled for May 16 at 9:30 a.m., June 20 at 9:30 a.m., July 18 at 9:30 a.m. Resources for residents impacted by recent federal changes are available on Councilmember Rinck’s webpage.

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