Council Roundup Council approves middle housing regulations

The Bellevue City Council approved updates to housing regulations to comply with state laws that promote diverse housing options and increased density. Key changes include limiting the height of middle housing and allowing developers to opt for a fee-in-lieu for constructing up to six units. The council confirmed that detached accessory dwelling units will count toward the total housing units, while attached units will not. In a separate initiative, the city is partnering with King County to launch a Community Court aimed at addressing low-level, nonviolent misdemeanor offenses by targeting their root causes. Set to open in mid-July, the Community Court will convene at the Bellevue Library, providing a resource center for individuals involved in the system.

The initiative seeks to lower recidivism rates and improve community safety by holding offenders accountable while offering them support. During the meeting, the council also proclaimed July as Disability Pride Month and Parks and Recreation Month. Bellevue's efforts reflect a commitment to enhancing housing policies and addressing community safety.