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The Seattle City Council plans to ban landlords from using “algorithmic rent fixing” practices, which critics argue facilitate collusion against renters. The legislation includes provisions for plaintiffs to recover legal fees if they successfully challenge offenders. The council's analysis suggests the ban may improve rental affordability for vulnerable communities.
Ground was broken on a $9.5 million redevelopment project at Garfield Super Block in Seattle's Central District. The project aims to create a new promenade that integrates art and history into the community. This initiative is expected to enhance local engagement and accessibility in the area.
The Seattle Police Department will fully encrypt its tactical radio communications starting in early 2026 to enhance safety for the community and first responders. This move follows a practice initiated during the 2020 protests, with officials citing concerns over criminals using scanners to evade law enforcement. Dispatch channels will remain open for public monitoring.
Rain returns to Seattle after a dry spring, alleviating fire risks and drought conditions. The National Weather Service forecasts rain from Wednesday through Sunday, with Sea-Tac recording no measurable rainfall this month. Meteorologist Dustin Guy noted that while outdoor plans may be disrupted, the rain is beneficial for current fire conditions.
Seattle Public Schools will broaden access to popular schools beyond family neighborhoods next fall, responding to data indicating that its waitlist system deterred many families. The initiative aims to enhance educational options and reduce waitlists, which have affected hundreds of families.
Washington ranks 12th for per capita use of the 988 suicide and crisis hotline, with 29.4 contacts per 1,000 residents in 2024. Nationally, the contact rate was 23.7, revealing significant usage disparities among states. Researchers advocate for increased outreach to improve awareness and usage in states with lower rates.
Seattle magistrates manage traffic and parking infractions, often addressing a range of excuses from drivers. They aim to provide fair outcomes, with recent changes to fines intended to discourage curb parking. The role of magistrates is crucial in the city's busiest courthouse, where they support elected judges and guide individuals through legal processes.
Amazon is facilitating a shift for its frontline workers in Washington state to aerospace jobs, aligning with the state's growing role in the commercial space sector. The company covers tuition for eligible employees in aerospace manufacturing programs, helping to cultivate a skilled workforce for projects like Project Kuiper. Washington's space sector supports over 13,000 jobs and generates $4.6 billion in economic activity.
The Seattle City Council is poised to vote on a $1.3 billion school levy renewal package, which includes $235 million designated for school safety initiatives. This decision follows a committee's approval to advance the proposal, highlighting the city's commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure.
Revival, a vintage and fashion shop on Broadway, will close on July 1 after a decade in business. Owner Ashley Busacca cites personal reasons for the closure, emphasizing her gratitude for the community's support. The closure occurs amidst ongoing discussions about the Broadway Urbaine affordable housing development, which Busacca states is unrelated to her decision.