On October 21, Burien Council members discussed mixed-use and vertical zoning as part of their growth plan. They also proposed city’s raising the minimum wage to remove the need for an upcoming ballot initiative.
The Burien City Council Meeting of October 21, 2024 focused heavily on a presentation from the Planning Commission and its consultant. The presentation’s key points were the city’s new zoning and planning proposals, particularly the expansion of zones, especially in mixed-use, and mixed-use designations.
Zoning for higher-density
The Council is considering a shift towards higher-density vertical structures to accommodate the city’s growing population, a move that promises a more vibrant and dynamic cityscape.
In the eyes of Mayor Kevin Schilling and several other members, the need is not for more parking but for more units. “We don’t need more parking; we need more housing, especially around multifamily housing, close to public transit. We need as walkable a community as possible,” said the mayor.
Council Member Hugo Garcia was among the strongest supporters of this. Other council members, especially CM Linda Akey and Alex Andrade were not as enthused. However, there was a general agreement that the parking issue needs to be very flexible, a sign of the Council’s commitment to a comprehensive and adaptable plan. The staff and consultant sought to assure the Council that this was true of the plan they were putting forth.
Of particular interest to many is the zoning that would allow a building up to 16 stories. It was commented during the meeting that Burien has yet to see the urban density growth it desires because the restrictions on the number of stories and parking make it too expensive for builders. Burien, with its better views and delightful main street, has long compared itself to Seatac, which has three times the city revenue due to the airport hotels.
The Council’s consideration of these unique features in its planning process is a testament to its understanding of the city’s identity and potential. Increasing height limits is one of the critical requirements for potential investors. The increased height would increase tax revenue and tourist dollars spent at cafes, pubs, and restaurants.
One area deemed off-limits for change was Old Burien, where current zoning and restrictions stand.
The meeting also featured John Wilson, the King County Assessor. Mr. Wilson shared some enlightening statistics with the Council, providing a comprehensive view of the financial situation.
Here are a few critical statistics:
- Burien property values are down 3.9%.
- Burien property taxes are up 22%.
- King County has property tax revenues of $7.6 Billion.
- 83% of this comes from residents. According to Mr. Wilson, this is out of step with the national averages, where only 65% of the revenue comes from residents. “This means that some of the largest and wealthiest businesses in the world are not paying what they should,” said Mr. Wilson.
- 80% of the King County funds are used for law enforcement and justice.
Minimum wage
The Council then picked up the issue of Burien’s minimum wage. Burien City Council voted in a new minimum wage earlier in the year, effective January 1, 2025. The ordinance would have put Burien near the top of the minimum wage scale in this region.
However, a network of outside organizations, funded by outside groups, primarily unions, paid canvassers from outside Burien to obtain the needed signatures for a different minimum wage initiative to go on a special ballot in February. This initiative, which also binds the city of Burien to match other city wage laws, will be on a special vote in February 2025.
Deputy Mayor Stephanie Mora stated that she is being asked by residents for clarification on the minimum wage. Therefore, DM Mora moved to, “Bring back the minimum wage ordinance and levels – Level 1 rise to $4 above state minimum wage and Level 2 rise to $3 above the state minimum wage.”
CM Sarah Moore seconded it. CM Alex Andrade raised a concern that this would make Burien the highest minimum wage in the nation.
This passed 5-1-1. Council Members Matta, Akey, Moore, Mora, and Mayor Schilling voted favorably. CM Andrade voted no. CM Garcia abstained.
The city staff will now bring back the minimum wage ordinance for Council vote.
