Olympia Rental Registry Passes Despite WMFHA Efforts

The Olympia City Council heard a proposal for a rental registry and inspection program at their meeting last night, November 14.

Despite having very little turnaround time once we were made aware of this issue, we were able to organize efforts against this proposal. Due to member engagement and outreach, as well as overall concern from members of the housing industry, we were able to show up in record numbers, both in council chambers and virtually.

We also had letters submitted by members and by WMFHA. WMFHA staff attended the meeting and briefed property managers in attendance on the issue and testimony procedures.  In addition to submitting a letter of opposition on behalf of WMFHA, Carter Nelson was also the first to testify at the council meeting.

Leading up to this meeting, we met with a group of operators in Olympia to hear their concerns directly, as well as facilitated a meeting with the Mayor Cheryl Selby to inform her of the consequences the proposal would have on the multifamily industry an discuss strategy. She was receptive, but unfortunately the rest of the council was not. Mayor Selby was the lone ‘No’ vote last night, with the ordinance passing on first hearing. This was a frustrating result, but we will be updating our members as we learn more on the ramifications and compliance requirements of this program.

We would also like to highlight a member who led the charge on this issue, Dezeri Hillaby with Indigo. She conducted her own outreach to other property managers in Olympia and submitted very important public comments to the council.

For more information or any questions, please email Carter at carter@wmfha.org