Judge rules for City of Burien in encampment lawsuit The State Constitution cannot fix every societal problem

A King County Superior Court judge ruled in favor of the City of Burien, dismissing a lawsuit filed by the South King County Coalition on Homelessness (SKCCH) that challenged the city's management of unsheltered encampments. The court determined that SKCCH lacked standing to sue and that Burien's actions did not violate the Public Records Act or other legal obligations. Judge Michael K. Ryan stated that ruling for the plaintiffs could worsen the homelessness crisis by restricting policy options available to city officials. The City of Burien, in a press release, emphasized its commitment to combating homelessness through partnerships and investments in shelter and supportive housing.

Ryan acknowledged the suffering of the homeless but clarified that constitutional claims cannot resolve the complex issue of homelessness. He asserted that the judiciary should not create policy through constitutional interpretation. The ruling underscores the limitations of the state's constitution in addressing societal problems. This case highlights the ongoing tensions between local governance and homelessness policy in Washington State.