Seattle faces significant housing challenges stemming from its rapid growth and strong economy, which have made it an attractive place to settle but have also created displacement pressures for many families, especially historically underrepresented households. The Office of Planning and Community Development (OPCD) has a clear vision for inclusive, resilient growth that prevents displacement while making neighborhoods accessible for residents at all income levels and creating opportunities for inclusive wealth creation through homeownership. The City has already implemented several initiatives, including Equitable Development Zoning to remove barriers to affordable housing projects and reforming Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) rules, which led to a fourfold increase in permits.
FUSE Executive Fellow Khevin Pratt will develop a proposal for creating a Public Development Authority (PDA) to establish a model for leasing backyard property from historically underrepresented residents and generating various housing types. This model would include a leasing and tenant sublease management structure that allows residents from diverse backgrounds to accrue savings over the lease term with an option to buy out the PDA eventually. Additionally, Pratt will support OPCD’s 2025 strategic planning process to identify displacement needs, advance policies to help families remain in place, and shape the City’s investment decisions to center people at risk of displacement. Pratt will also help coordinate downtown revitalization efforts and develop a Request for Ideas competition for mixed-use development projects in the 30 new Neighborhood Centers being created as part of the 2025 Seattle Comprehensive Plan Major Update.
