Council Roundup Office of Housing makes early progress

During its meeting, Bellevue's City Council reviewed the recent formation of the Office of Housing, which aims to enhance affordable housing initiatives and homelessness outreach. The office has already initiated projects that could potentially create 400 new affordable housing units in transit-oriented areas. The council voiced concerns regarding King County's proposed sewer rate increases, which could see rates rise from $58. 28 to $173. 57 monthly over 20 years, a 198% increase.

In response, the council plans to draft a letter to the King County Council addressing these concerns and advocating for greater rate transparency. Newly sworn-in councilmember Vishal Bhargava will fulfill the Position 1 role until the November General Election results are certified. The council also underwent mandatory training on open government laws, which is required every four years. The full presentation and discussion from the meeting are accessible via Bellevue Television. The council proclaimed May as Jewish American Heritage Month and recognized Affordable Housing Week at the start of the meeting.