RHA ……..Call to Action……..
December 14, 2007
UPDATE: Inspections in Seattle
Dear RHA Member,
The Seattle City Council’s, Urban Development and Planning Committee voted to unanimously support Resolution 31031, allowing for a study to analyze and recommend implementation strategies for a Seattle Rental housing inspection program. The rental housing industry is not a proponent of any type of rental housing inspection program.
We urge you to contact your Seattle City Councilmembers to voice your opposition and request the following amendments to Resolution 31031.
1. A task force be created that would structure the scope of the study and review and comment on the findings of the city’s inspection consultant. This task force should include representatives from the rental housing industry.
2. That the study also review and comment on the existing law and other models to include those:
– That target rental housing that is known to be substandard;
– Regarding boarding room housing;
– That strengthen the existing complaint-based system;
– Improve the ability of the City to enforce its retaliation ordinances;
– That educates tenants on their rights and responsibilities.
If the City of Seattle chooses to move forward with a study we hope the city of Seattle will make the stakeholders part of the process.
This will go to the full council on Monday, December 17, 2 p.m. at City Hall. You are welcome to attend this meeting.