City Council Faces Budget Cuts to Crucial Rental Assistance Programs
October 17, 2024 | Seattle, King County, Washington
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The proposed budget for 2024 suggests a reduction in funding for tenant services, grants, and contracts from approximately $2.4 million to $1.8 million, marking a 25% decrease. This reduction includes a one-time allocation of $1 million for rental assistance linked to eviction legal defense, which is now set to be cut. SDCI would continue to provide about $527,000 for rental assistance, representing roughly 10% of the anticipated $5 million citywide allocation for such services.
Council members expressed concern over the implications of these cuts, emphasizing the critical need for rental assistance in a city where over half the population are renters, many of whom are already facing financial strain. Council member Moore highlighted the importance of increasing rental assistance rather than reducing it, advocating for a more centralized approach to streamline services for both tenants and landlords.
Council member Morales echoed these sentiments, noting that organizations providing tenant services play a vital role in preventing evictions and supporting vulnerable populations, including victims of domestic violence. The potential loss of funding could exacerbate the existing homelessness crisis, they warned.
The council is considering various options, including adopting a statement of legislative intent to request a report on the contracting process for tenant services. The discussions reflect a broader recognition of the need for effective rental assistance mechanisms, especially as the city grapples with ongoing housing challenges. The meeting underscored the urgency of addressing these issues to ensure that residents remain housed while the city works towards increasing affordable housing availability.
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