In a recent government meeting, discussions centered around the pressing issue of workforce housing, particularly in high-demand neighborhoods. The board reviewed a resolution aimed at establishing a master lease agreement with SRM Development for a new building under construction at 991 118th Avenue Southeast, which will feature 135 units designated for families earning between 80% and 100% of the area median income (AMI).

Deputy Superintendent of Finance and Operations, Melissa DaVita, presented the proposal, highlighting a previous feasibility study that indicated significant interest among district employees for affordable housing options. The proposed master lease would prioritize renting these units to district employees before opening them to the general public, although the exact number of units to be leased has yet to be determined.

The building is expected to be owned and managed by Bellwether Housing, a nonprofit organization experienced in affordable housing management in the Seattle area. Under the proposed arrangement, the district would guarantee rent payments, but only if the units remain unoccupied by employees or other tenants.

The board is currently seeking to gauge interest in moving forward with the master lease arrangement, with a final decision pending further details and discussions. Board members expressed appreciation for the clarity of the proposal, particularly regarding the financial implications of the lease agreement. The resolution is set to be further discussed in an upcoming pre-meeting, where board members will have the opportunity to ask additional questions.