Councilmember Morales Advocates for Initiative 137 Vote to Fund Affordable Housing

Seattle City Councilmember Tammy J. Morales is calling on the Council to fulfill its duty and take a vote on Initiative 137, which seeks to fund affordable housing through a tax on high-earning employers. The initiative was prompted by the approval of the Seattle Social Housing Developer, which had already gained public support from over 25,000 signatures. Morales emphasizes that the Council has been aware of I-137 since February and should act promptly to avoid delays. If the Council fails to vote by the deadline, the initiative would be postponed to the February special election, where voter turnout historically drops significantly.

Morales highlights that approximately 55% more people voted in the last November election compared to the following February. She argues that delaying the procedural vote risks undermining the democratic process and the will of Seattle residents. Morales also points out that the Council can act swiftly, referencing their ability to vote on urgent legislation regarding contracting with SCORE jail within a week. The initiative is a key step towards addressing the affordable housing crisis in Seattle and ensuring more equitable representation in local governance.