To the editor:

Improving the safety and cleanliness the City of SeaTac is a major priority. The City Council knows there is a need for a more aggressive code compliance approach to make that happen. In 2014, the Council appointed a Code Compliance Working Group to take a closer look at our code compliance program and make recommendations on how we might improve. The members of the Working Group are committed to partnering with our neighbors to maintain, and in some case restore, a sense of pride in our community. With most, this means celebrating our shared sense of city pride and better understanding our neighbors. With some, it means ensuring that they keep their property in compliance with the community standards of the City's municipal code.

Over the last year, we've worked with city staff to design a program which we are confident will improve code compliance. More work means more staff as well as more effort by existing staff and volunteers. The Working Group recommended increased funding for code compliance, including additional staffing. This increase was included in the 2015-16 budget and was approved by the City Council.

In 2015, we have continued our work with staff from multiple departments to re-tool the program, starting with a broader vision, mission, and goals. We've also identified key initiatives that the staff is developing into comprehensive work plans with defined schedules. This will broaden the scope of our existing code compliance program to include expanded community engagement; maintenance of City road, park and facilities; and continued improvement to our core code compliance efforts. The community's participation is recognized as a key to success.

At the June 9th City Council meeting, on behalf of our working group, Councilmember Dave Bush invited the SeaTac community to participate in a survey to help name the effort. Your response is welcome!
We've heard loud and clear that improving our code compliance effort must be a top priority and we are responding. Thanks to all of you who share our passion and pride in our City!

Sincerely,

City of SeaTac Code Compliance Working Group
Councilmember Dave Bush
Councilmember Kathryn Campbell
Councilmember Terry Anderson