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Discover what's been happening in the office of Councilmember Johnson this week.
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Homelessness Update

Many constituents have been asking about where we are in the process of addressing Seattle’s homelessness crisis. The proposal of CB 118794 last fall shined a spotlight on areas where the city needed to step up. While that piece of legislation did not move forward, I am glad that it ultimately inspired the council and the executive to increase investments in short-term support to people living without homes while longer-term strategies are established.

In the months that have followed, there has been quite a bit of work done to address the homelessness crisis and my most recent blog post:

  • Addresses a few common concerns;
  • Reports on the status of new and increased investments to support our homeless neighbors;
  • Shares new draft city rules regarding the removal of encampments and invites you to share your feedback;
  • And provides resources for you to take action and help us solve this crisis.

Lottery to Open for Housing Choice Vouchers

On Monday, February 6, 2017, Seattle Housing Authority (SHA) will open a lottery for places on a new waitlist for the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, formerly known as Section 8. These vouchers provide rental assistance for people with low incomes to rent homes owned by landlords in the private market. As vouchers become available, the City is also exploring policies that increase the range of affordable housing options throughout the city.

Registration for the lottery will be available online only, and will be open from 8 a.m. on February 6, 2017 until 5 p.m. on February 24, 2017, Pacific Time. Registration is only available at seattlehousing.org/waitlist.

Photo courtesy of the Seattle Municipal Archives

Celebrating Black History Month

We celebrate Black History Month in February to honor the accomplishments of African American people and to reflect on our collective history as a city. While this is a goal every month of the year, Black History Month enlightens and empowers others through knowledge and understanding and we utilize this month as an opportunity to reach others and establish relationships with other cultures.

Learn more about different events going on throughout the city, here.

Apply to Join the Community Involvement Commission

We are seeking community members to serve on the City’s new Community Involvement Commission (CIC). This Commission will advise the City on policies and strategies to advance equitable public engagement and civic participation and will guide the City’s efforts to create policies and initiatives that are more inclusive for residents.

If you are interested in being considered, complete the online application by Wednesday, March 1 by 5 pm. If you cannot submit the application online, contact Seattle Department of Neighborhoods at 206-684-0464 and an application will be mailed to you.

For more information or questions, contact Tom Van Bronkhorst at (206) 233-3954 or email NewDON@seattle.gov. You can also learn more about the Community Involvement Commission, here.

Yours in civil service,

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