Today Councilmember Bob Kettle (District 7), who chairs the Public Safety Committee, released the following statement on two recent tax proposals. Last week Mayor Bruce Harrell and Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck (Position 8, Citywide) announced a new proposal to lower city taxes for approximately 90% of Seattle businesses that currently pay the Business & Occupation (B&O) tax to raise revenue...
Author: City Council News Releases (City Council News Releases)
Application window now open for District 5 council vacancy
Community groups encouraged to participate in public forum process Beginning today, July 2, interested candidates who reside in District 5, representing north Seattle, can now apply for the district’s vacant City Council position. Completed applications must be received by the City Clerk before 5 p.m. on Wednesday, July 9 to be accepted. Completed applications may...
Council President Nelson announces progressive public safety initiative dedicating anticipated increased sales tax revenue to addiction treatment services
Today Council President Sara Nelson (Position 9), joined by key Seattle-area providers, announced her resolution to dedicate up to 25% of any proposed sales tax increase for a progressive public safety initiative that will shore up “pathways to recovery” through investment in critical addiction treatment services. The Washington State Legislature authorized local jurisdictions to increase...
Mayor Harrell and Councilmember Rinck announce proposal to reduce taxes for small businesses and raise new revenue to protect essential human services from Trump threats
‘Seattle Shield’ proposal: 90% of Seattle businesses paying B&O tax would no longer pay the tax or see tax reductions Today, Mayor Bruce Harrell and Councilmember Alexis Mercedes Rinck (Position 8, Citywide) announced a new proposal to lower city taxes for approximately 90% of Seattle businesses that currently pay the Business & Occupation (B&O) tax...
Council passes Councilmember Moore’s legislation to help prevent renter displacement
Earlier today the City Council voted 7-0 (with one abstention) to approve amended legislation prohibiting algorithmic rent fixing, to protect renters by fighting anti-competitive rent hikes in Seattle. Councilmember Cathy Moore (District 5) sponsored CB 121000, which prohibits landlords from using new software to set higher rents and creates penalties of up to $7500 per...
Council gives final go-ahead to install interactive kiosks in neighborhood business districts
From bus schedules to emergency alerts – will offer visitors, residents a variety of on-demand information Today, the City Council approved by a 6-2 vote an ordinance granting the Downtown Seattle Association (DSA) permission to install and operate interactive media kiosks in neighborhood business districts around Seattle. CB 120992 is sponsored by Council President Sara...
City Council announces application process and key dates for District 5 seat vacancy
Today City Council President Sara Nelson (Position 9) confirmed the formal process to fill the vacant Council seat after the resignation of Councilmember Cathy Moore (District 5), effective July 7. Councilmembers were given a presentation on the procedure and what to expect earlier this week during Council Briefing. Interested candidates may apply beginning Wednesday, July 2 at 8 a.m....
Mayor Harrell and Councilmember Saka announce collaborative solution for Delridge Way Road Safety
Mayor Bruce Harrell and Councilmember Rob Saka (District 1) today announced a community-driven solution to address longstanding roadway safety concerns on Delridge Way SW. In response to concerns from the Refugee and Immigrant Family Center (RIFC) families, staff, and neighbors, three low-cost improvements will enhance safe access to RIFC while maintaining roadway safety for all...
Council approves Families, Education, Preschool, and Promise Levy renewal package for November ballot
Levy expands investments in early education, continues K-12 academic and health supports, and universal access to a two-year college degree Today the City Council unanimously voted to send the Families, Education, Preschool, and Promise (FEPP) Levy renewal to the November 2025 ballot for voters to consider. The review process was led by Select Committee Chair...
Councilmember Rivera statement on assassination of lawmaker in Minnesota
City Councilmember Maritza Rivera (District 4) released this statement tonight after the tragedy in Minnesota: “I want to express my deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of Minnesota State Senator Melissa Hortman and her husband, Mark, and to the people of Minnesota who are reeling after the targeted and politically motivated assassination of...