The Mountlake Terrace City Council held a work session on April 24, 2025, focusing on strategies to enhance affordable housing and community engagement in the city. The meeting highlighted the importance of developing a comprehensive housing action plan aimed at addressing the needs of residents at risk of displacement and promoting diverse housing options.

Key discussions centered around potential strategies for creating regulated income-restricted affordable housing and fostering public-private partnerships. The council emphasized the need for actions that not only preserve existing affordable housing but also support the development of various housing types and price points. This approach aims to ensure housing stability for vulnerable households in the community.

The council plans to incorporate feedback from various stakeholders, including the Washington State Department of Commerce, as they refine their draft housing code. Upcoming steps include a work session with the planning commission in May, followed by a special hearing, and a subsequent update to the council in June. The final adoption of the housing action plan is expected later that month.

Council members expressed appreciation for the extensive work done so far and highlighted the importance of continued dialogue with community members. They acknowledged the complexity of the housing issues at hand and the need for further discussions before finalizing the plan. The council is committed to engaging with residents and gathering additional input to ensure the proposed strategies effectively meet the community's needs.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city's proactive approach to addressing housing challenges and the importance of collaboration in developing effective solutions. The council's next steps will be crucial in shaping the future of housing in Mountlake Terrace.