I sat in the backroom of a business in Southeast Seattle, waiting for Robert to arrive. Known by his friends as “Bobby,” he walked in with a smile on his face and joy in eyes. The smile didn’t hide the tough life he’s had. I couldn’t help but notice his matted-down hair and torn jeans. He carried garbage bags full of his possessions and gave a loud, “Whew!” as he placed them on the counter. Continue reading ANALYSIS: Safety Underground: Waiting for Safe Injection Sites, Users Seek Spaces and Professionals Discreetly→
What is rent control, how does it work, and could it benefit Seattle?
by Natalie Barry
Earlier this spring, Kshama Sawant and the Seattle Renters Commission repeated calls for a citywide rent control ordinance and economic eviction assistance. In letters to the City Council, they specifically called for a repeal of the rent control ban on the city level, and an extension of the 30-day rent increase notice period, requiring landlords to inform tenants 180 days before increasing rents.