Advocacy Update – May 2025

This Month in Advocacy: AIA Seattle Urges Seattle City Council to Support Housing in Interim Zoning Ordinance and May 19th Opportunity to Speak Up for Missing Middle Housing.

Seattle is in the middle of updating its Comprehensive Plan, the city’s 20-year plan for growth, housing, transportation, and more. As part of this process, the City Council is considering interim zoning legislation CB 120969 to meet the requirements of House Bill 1110, a new state law requiring cities to allow more middle housing (such as duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes) in traditionally single-family neighborhoods.

While the interim legislation is not final, the framework it provides now could have lasting impacts on Seattle’s final Comprehensive Plan. Strong pro-middle housing interim policies are critical to ensure Seattle’s future neighborhoods are more inclusive, affordable, and sustainable, rather than reinforce outdated development patterns.

City Council Receives Proposed Amendments to Interim Legislation

On May 7th, the Council’s Comprehensive Plan Select Committee received a letter from AIA Seattle with seven proposed amendments urging stronger action to support middle housing and housing affordability in the interim zoning ordinance.

Several amendments would adjust density standards, maintain some single-family lot coverage restrictions, and restore floor area allowances for small lots. Other amendments outline topics for future legislation, such as displacement mitigation and potential tree protection measures. The full implications of these changes remain unclear.

Speak Up for Middle Housing at the May 19th City Council Hearing

The Seattle City Council will hold a public hearing on the interim zoning ordinance on Monday, May 19th. This is a critical opportunity to urge the Council to support more housing options and better align zoning with Seattle’s affordability and equity goals.

Your voice can make a difference. Help show strong support for middle housing and an equitable future for Seattle.

Remote Comment (Morning Session)

Begins at 9:30am
Register remotely between 8:30pm and 10:00pm

In-Person Comment (Afternoon Session)

Begins at 4:00 p.m. at City Hall, Council Chambers
Register on-site between 3:30pm and 5:30pm

There is also an opportunity to provide a written comment at any of the comp plan committee meetings. See infor mation on how to provide written or public comment.

See our testimony guide for help planning your testimony or contact Nathan Winch for more assistance. Check out our FAQ + Facts Doc: Information to Address Misconceptions About the One Seattle Comprehensive Plan.

One of our partner organizations Complete Communities Coalition is also hosting a Comp Plan Letter writing and sign making workshop May 15th at 5pm at MG2 1101 Second Ave. Please show support by attending.