Burien City Council considers permanent ordinance for religious homeless shelters

The Burien City Council is moving towards a permanent ordinance that would enable religious organizations to temporarily shelter the homeless, as the interim zoning ordinance is set to expire in June. This initiative aligns with state law, which mandates that cities accommodate such shelters, including outdoor encampments and indoor overnight facilities. The council also addressed the potential for a property tax levy lid lift, which would allow an increase beyond the 1% annual cap imposed by state law. This tax measure requires a simple majority vote and must be placed on the ballot by the August 5 deadline. Council discussions included the legal framework set forth in House Bill 1754, detailing operational requirements for religious organizations, such as sanitation and public meetings.

The city can regulate health and safety standards but must allow flexibility in shelter management. Council members anticipate further discussions on both topics before the interim ordinance expires, emphasizing the urgency of finding sustainable solutions for homelessness and funding. Both measures reflect the city's commitment to addressing pressing social issues and financial constraints.