We are deeply saddened and troubled by the inconsistencies coming from Seattle elected officials as our community is faced with a depleting supply of affordable housing due largely to condo conversions.

The working class citizens that have made Ballard great and literally built it from the ground up are actually being forced out. Affordable rentals like the Lock Vista Apartments are being gobbled up by developers, turning $660 a month studios into a $250,000 condo.

Many of the residents are public employees, artists, wage workers or retired. They work, live and commute in this "urban village." Residents say Lock Vista is a model for that goal.

But they still would be unable to afford to purchase their unit if the buildings are converted, and finding another rental here could be impossible, with a below 3 percent vacancy rate.

It's hard for us, and those all over the city being displaced by conversions, to hear Mayor Greg Nickels tout proposals like his latest "Seattle Homes Within Reach," which gives a tax break for developers who set aside a portion of new construction rentals and homes for people making about 80 percent of median income. Its aim is to keep Seattle's moderate wage workers living in Seattle.

But what does that do for people who need help today?

It's time for our elected leaders to take action on behalf of its constituents, those that trusted you would always have their best interest at heart. Don't hand our beloved communities, over to the deep pockets of developers.

We applaud Seattle City Councilman Tom Rasmussen for his pledged support to help those at the Lock Vista in their fight to save the building. But, honestly, we're waiting to see if it's all talk.