Advocacy Update – September 2024
Join Advocacy Happy Hour – Tuesday, September 23rd
AIA Seattle advocacy members are passionate about the role of AEC professionals to support thriving communities through advocacy. Whether you’ve been a long-time advocate or always wanted to get involved, this happy hour is a great opportunity for in-person connection! Registration and details HERE.
AIA Seattle is Hiring – Advocacy Manager Role
AIA Seattle is seeking an independent, motivated, and passionate leader who will work with senior staff and members to identify and develop consensus on specific policy issues of importance to AIA and organize direct action and communication about those issues. This is a unique opportunity for a part-time team member who will receive outstanding benefits.
- Share this opportunity in your network
- Re-post our LinkedIn post on your own profile to help spread the word
AIA Seattle Endorses Legislation to Boost Housing Production
Members of AIA Seattle’s Housing Taskforce have been advocating for Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) legislation that would increase housing density and provide clearer pathways to development. This week, AIA Seattle and other community organizations endorsed proposed legislation by Mayor Harrell’s office. The draft legislation, which has been required by the Washington State Legislature’s passage of HB 1337 to ease barriers to the construction of ADUs, includes increased maximum ADU size, simplified ADU sales, and more flexible options to allow second ADUs. AIA Seattle will be tracking additional ADU legislation in the months ahead to continue to increase housing production and types.
Comp Plan Work Group – Update
AIA Seattle’s Comprehensive Plan Work Group will be resuming meetings on October 23rd in preparation for the next round of engagement with City of Seattle staff and elected officials. AIA Seattle has heard from City staff draft Phase 1 zoning legislation for Neighborhood Residential zones will be released around mid-October.
Interested in getting involved in the Comp Plan Work Group? Reach out to Melissa K Neher.
Support the Climate Commitment Act – Pledge to VOTE No on I-2117
AIA Seattle is part of the substantial coalition for the NO on I-2117 Campaign, one of a series of initiatives that will appear on the Washington State ballot in November of 2024. I-2117 would revoke the 2021 Climate Commitment Act. AIA Seattle members are encouraged to stand with AIA Washington Council and AIA Seattle and take a pledge to vote NO on I-2117.
Make sure your voter registration information is current!
Lid I-5 – Volunteer Group Convening
A group of community volunteers is coming together as stakeholders in support of the $2 million grant for the City of Seattle to continue planning, technical studies, and community outreach for lidding I-5 in the center city. The group has plans to assemble and engage with the Office of Planning and Community Development (OPCD) to move forward project outcomes that are representative of a community vision, and generate broad support for the future stages of the work ensuring its long term success. The group will start convening this winter with an anticipated 12-18 month commitment. If you are interested in getting involved, reach out directly to John Feit and Scott Bonjukian.
