Policy Positions
Policies for a City that Works
OUR PUBLIC SAFETY/DRUG/HOUSING CRISIS:
HOMELESSNESS
We support city-based solutions to improve the situation, not shifting the problem off on the county, state or federal systems. The shelter first, treatment next, and then earned housing model is preferred over the “housing first” approach. We support teams or units of professionals, such as the Navigation Team and CARE, to work with those living rough to find safe shelter, as well as to clear the encampments that currently block our sidewalks, parks, and other public spaces.
DRUG ADDICTION AND MENTAL ILLNESS
We recognize that many of those living on our streets are struggling with addiction or mental illness or both, and it’s important to identify and support pathways to encourage them to a safe, sober, and stable future. We oppose drug injection sites and “harm-reduction” policies that only keep hard drug users on the streets and active in their addictions. We support expanding mental health programs to address the needs of those living in crisis.
HOUSING
We support pragmatic solutions to create more affordable housing in the city. We also support reforming local rental regulations to restore a responsible balance that safeguards the interests of both renters and landlords. We believe that by supporting small landlords we can protect and create affordable rental units across the city.
LIVABILITY/LAW AND ORDER
SEATTLE POLICE DEPARTMENT
City residents have a right to public safety in their city. Seattle Police Dept is a critical partner in the well-being of the community.
We support fully funding the police with accountability, and restoring the department’s staffing to safe and reasonable numbers, so that all 911 calls can be answered quickly and appropriately. We believe that property crimes are crimes with real victims and need to be treated as such. We support keeping violent suspects in jail without bail, the timely prosecution of those crimes, and enhanced sentencing for repeat offenders.
BUSINESS COMMUNITY
We support policies that buoy small businesses and the revitalization of the downtown core, so we can again have a vibrant, healthy, and safe downtown for all to enjoy.
PROSTITUTION/ VIOLENCE ALONG AURORA
We support policies that target the people who are trafficking young women through prostitution, helping the victims find pathways out of prostitution, and reducing the gun violence tied to those running the illicit sex trade.
