On December 15, Governor Jay Inslee announced $800 million in proposed investments to address homelessness and housing affordability in Washington. Below is a statement from Seattle Metro Chamber President & CEO Rachel Smith:
“We know from our research project, The Index, that homelessness and affordability are two of the biggest issues facing our region, and the Governor’s proposals are directly aimed at addressing both. The unprecedented federal investment in Washington state provides an opportunity to make a transformational change by housing our unsheltered neighbors, providing the service supports they need, and providing financial relief for those burdened by utility payments they cannot afford.”
“Additionally, employers are struggling to hire and retain staff right now, and it is no secret that our region’s high cost of housing is a major factor in the decisions people are making to live and work here. State policy that will ensure that more middle-income housing can be delivered in our communities is absolutely a step in the right direction. We applaud the Governor for thinking big and acting boldly with these proposals.”
