Raw payload JSON
Expanded meeting payload with raw transcript content and parsed cue entries included.
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x175934
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Expanded meeting payload with raw transcript content and parsed cue entries included.
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"title": "Mayor signs legislation to fill vacant storefronts, extend housing permits",
"date": "2025-07-27",
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"rawSrt": "1\r\n00:00:00,934 --> 00:00:07,875\r\n♪♪\r\n\r\n2\r\n00:00:07,875 --> 00:00:14,815\r\n♪♪\r\n\r\n3\r\n00:00:14,815 --> 00:00:16,483\r\n-It's all about arts\r\nand culture,\r\n\r\n4\r\n00:00:16,483 --> 00:00:19,953\r\neverything we do is\r\nabout activation and expression\r\n\r\n5\r\n00:00:19,953 --> 00:00:21,822\r\nand SDOT director Adiam Emery.\r\n\r\n6\r\n00:00:21,822 --> 00:00:23,090\r\nThank you for being here as well\r\n\r\n7\r\n00:00:23,090 --> 00:00:25,292\r\nand your\r\ngreat transportation leadership,\r\n\r\n8\r\n00:00:25,292 --> 00:00:28,161\r\nwhich is gotten some attention,\r\nsome good attention lately.\r\n\r\n9\r\n00:00:28,161 --> 00:00:30,163\r\nI also want to thank\r\nLincoln Property\r\n\r\n10\r\n00:00:30,163 --> 00:00:34,301\r\nfor hosting us here today at the\r\nstate of the art 225th building.\r\n\r\n11\r\n00:00:34,301 --> 00:00:36,770\r\nThis is amazing, isn't it?\r\n\r\n12\r\n00:00:36,770 --> 00:00:38,972\r\nI'm talking about the weather\r\nby the way.\r\n\r\n13\r\n00:00:38,972 --> 00:00:41,008\r\nThis site is amazing,\r\n\r\n14\r\n00:00:41,008 --> 00:00:43,544\r\nthe architectural statements\r\nthat are made, the feel of it\r\n\r\n15\r\n00:00:43,544 --> 00:00:44,978\r\nand most importantly\r\n\r\n16\r\n00:00:44,978 --> 00:00:46,847\r\nwhat we're trying to do\r\nto activate this area.\r\n\r\n17\r\n00:00:46,847 --> 00:00:51,685\r\nAnd support the growing\r\nlife sciences and biotechnology\r\n\r\n18\r\n00:00:51,685 --> 00:00:53,620\r\nhub here in South Lake Union.\r\n\r\n19\r\n00:00:53,620 --> 00:00:55,722\r\nWe know that this is\r\nan incredible industry,\r\n\r\n20\r\n00:00:55,722 --> 00:01:01,495\r\none we do not take for\r\nadvantage -- for -- take,\r\n\r\n21\r\n00:01:01,495 --> 00:01:03,263\r\nWhat's the word\r\nI'm trying to find?\r\n\r\n22\r\n00:01:03,263 --> 00:01:07,835\r\nFor granted.\r\nIt's been a long week so far.\r\n\r\n23\r\n00:01:07,835 --> 00:01:11,672\r\nCreating over 25,000 jobs in\r\nthe sector here in King County,\r\n\r\n24\r\n00:01:11,672 --> 00:01:15,275\r\nWashington and just do\r\namazing work for global health\r\n\r\n25\r\n00:01:15,275 --> 00:01:17,077\r\nand regional health\r\nand the kinds of things\r\n\r\n26\r\n00:01:17,077 --> 00:01:19,012\r\nthey're working on.\r\n\r\n27\r\n00:01:19,012 --> 00:01:22,449\r\nYou know we get criticized\r\nfrom the other Washington\r\n\r\n28\r\n00:01:22,449 --> 00:01:27,287\r\nfor some of our commitments\r\nto things like equity and gender\r\n\r\n29\r\n00:01:27,287 --> 00:01:30,257\r\nfairness, and climate change.\r\n\r\n30\r\n00:01:30,257 --> 00:01:35,629\r\nWe get attacked for our belief\r\nin science and how we are,\r\n\r\n31\r\n00:01:35,629 --> 00:01:40,400\r\nwe believe in the benefits\r\nof research grants at a time\r\n\r\n32\r\n00:01:40,400 --> 00:01:43,871\r\nwhere we have to fight\r\nfor this kind of commitment.\r\n\r\n33\r\n00:01:43,871 --> 00:01:46,707\r\nAnd I have leaders around me\r\nthat will talk more about that,\r\n\r\n34\r\n00:01:46,707 --> 00:01:49,776\r\nbut the fact is,\r\nis housing, jobs,\r\n\r\n35\r\n00:01:49,776 --> 00:01:52,079\r\nand a diversity\r\nof small businesses\r\n\r\n36\r\n00:01:52,079 --> 00:01:54,781\r\nare critical\r\nto our economic vitality.\r\n\r\n37\r\n00:01:54,781 --> 00:01:58,819\r\nCritical to us\r\nbeing vibrant here in downtown\r\n\r\n38\r\n00:01:58,819 --> 00:02:00,888\r\nand a little north of downtown.\r\n\r\n39\r\n00:02:00,888 --> 00:02:02,689\r\nDowntown runs on people.\r\n\r\n40\r\n00:02:02,689 --> 00:02:05,325\r\nOn small businesses, on ideas.\r\n\r\n41\r\n00:02:05,325 --> 00:02:08,028\r\nAnd our downtown\r\nactivation plan,\r\n\r\n42\r\n00:02:08,028 --> 00:02:10,597\r\nthat I'm very proud\r\nof the planning\r\n\r\n43\r\n00:02:10,597 --> 00:02:12,466\r\nthat we did,\r\n\r\n44\r\n00:02:12,466 --> 00:02:14,368\r\nbut most importantly\r\nthe implementation as well.\r\n\r\n45\r\n00:02:14,368 --> 00:02:16,603\r\nAnd I want to thank our\r\nOffice of Economic Development\r\n\r\n46\r\n00:02:16,603 --> 00:02:18,505\r\nand that regard as well.\r\n\r\n47\r\n00:02:18,505 --> 00:02:21,341\r\nWe are making progress\r\nagain to make downtown safe,\r\n\r\n48\r\n00:02:21,341 --> 00:02:26,880\r\nthriving, vibrant, and critical\r\nneighborhood for residents,\r\n\r\n49\r\n00:02:26,880 --> 00:02:28,582\r\nworkers and visitors alike.\r\n\r\n50\r\n00:02:28,582 --> 00:02:30,450\r\nSo, the first piece\r\nof legislation\r\n\r\n51\r\n00:02:30,450 --> 00:02:32,219\r\nwe'll be signing this morning\r\n\r\n52\r\n00:02:32,219 --> 00:02:34,087\r\nwill help fill\r\nvacant storefronts by expanding\r\n\r\n53\r\n00:02:34,087 --> 00:02:36,423\r\nground level commercial uses.\r\n\r\n54\r\n00:02:36,423 --> 00:02:38,425\r\nWhich will in effect\r\nboost our economy\r\n\r\n55\r\n00:02:38,425 --> 00:02:40,928\r\nand activate our streets\r\nwith more people.\r\n\r\n56\r\n00:02:40,928 --> 00:02:44,798\r\nIn this particular facility,\r\nagain in the biotech space,\r\n\r\n57\r\n00:02:44,798 --> 00:02:46,834\r\nwe couldn't be more excited.\r\n\r\n58\r\n00:02:46,834 --> 00:02:50,137\r\nThis will broaden the pull of\r\ntenants for ground floor spaces\r\n\r\n59\r\n00:02:50,137 --> 00:02:51,939\r\nand allowing more entrepreneurs,\r\n\r\n60\r\n00:02:51,939 --> 00:02:54,107\r\nand free thinkers\r\nand small business owners\r\n\r\n61\r\n00:02:54,107 --> 00:02:56,710\r\nto call downtown Seattle home.\r\n\r\n62\r\n00:02:56,710 --> 00:02:59,346\r\nAnd we actively recruit\r\nthese types of tenants\r\n\r\n63\r\n00:02:59,346 --> 00:03:01,448\r\nand we're excited\r\nabout what we're seeing.\r\n\r\n64\r\n00:03:01,448 --> 00:03:05,252\r\nNew businesses will be allowed\r\non ground floor areas.\r\n\r\n65\r\n00:03:05,252 --> 00:03:07,120\r\nThis will include\r\nmedical offices,\r\n\r\n66\r\n00:03:07,120 --> 00:03:09,122\r\nresearch and development,\r\n\r\n67\r\n00:03:09,122 --> 00:03:12,292\r\nlaboratories, food processing,\r\nhorticultural operations,\r\n\r\n68\r\n00:03:12,292 --> 00:03:16,530\r\ncrafts, manufacturing,\r\nart installations and many more.\r\n\r\n69\r\n00:03:16,530 --> 00:03:22,569\r\nAnd again I want to thank\r\nSDCI for their wisdom\r\n\r\n70\r\n00:03:22,569 --> 00:03:24,872\r\nin thinking about how\r\nwe can think outside of the box.\r\n\r\n71\r\n00:03:24,872 --> 00:03:28,175\r\nAnd indeed, Chief Operating\r\nOfficer Marco Lowe\r\n\r\n72\r\n00:03:28,175 --> 00:03:30,978\r\nand his group\r\nfor the housing work.\r\n\r\n73\r\n00:03:30,978 --> 00:03:36,183\r\nThe housing ideas that\r\nhave come forward in this work.\r\n\r\n74\r\n00:03:36,183 --> 00:03:38,218\r\nThe second piece of legislation\r\n\r\n75\r\n00:03:38,218 --> 00:03:40,621\r\nwill extend building permits\r\nfor projects previously vested\r\n\r\n76\r\n00:03:40,621 --> 00:03:42,489\r\nunder our old codes.\r\n\r\n77\r\n00:03:42,489 --> 00:03:45,292\r\nAnd this will in effect\r\nallow projects to proceed\r\n\r\n78\r\n00:03:45,292 --> 00:03:48,962\r\nwithout the time and cost\r\nof applying for new permits.\r\n\r\n79\r\n00:03:48,962 --> 00:03:50,697\r\nWe think this is\r\na critical strategy,\r\n\r\n80\r\n00:03:50,697 --> 00:03:52,833\r\nwhich by extending\r\nthese permits,\r\n\r\n81\r\n00:03:52,833 --> 00:03:55,402\r\nit will prevent hopefully\r\nthe potential loss\r\n\r\n82\r\n00:03:55,402 --> 00:03:59,206\r\nof 29,000 planned units\r\nof housing.\r\n\r\n83\r\n00:03:59,206 --> 00:04:02,042\r\nIncluding many affordable\r\nhousing units and housing\r\n\r\n84\r\n00:04:02,042 --> 00:04:04,044\r\nprojects planned for downtown.\r\n\r\n85\r\n00:04:04,044 --> 00:04:06,446\r\nAnd you'll from Chris Persons\r\nlater.\r\n\r\n86\r\n00:04:06,446 --> 00:04:08,448\r\nAnd I want to thank Chris\r\nand his organization,\r\n\r\n87\r\n00:04:08,448 --> 00:04:12,319\r\nCommunity Roots, for doing\r\nthe work that they are doing.\r\n\r\n88\r\n00:04:12,319 --> 00:04:14,254\r\nThese affordable housing units\r\nand housing\r\n\r\n89\r\n00:04:14,254 --> 00:04:16,790\r\nprojects planned for downtown\r\nnot only house people,\r\n\r\n90\r\n00:04:16,790 --> 00:04:18,625\r\nwhich is the\r\nmost important thing,\r\n\r\n91\r\n00:04:18,625 --> 00:04:22,362\r\nthey also produce\r\nabout $13.4 million in sales tax\r\n\r\n92\r\n00:04:22,362 --> 00:04:25,966\r\nand $75 million in MHA fees.\r\n\r\n93\r\n00:04:25,966 --> 00:04:27,734\r\nSo it's a win-win scenario\r\n\r\n94\r\n00:04:27,734 --> 00:04:29,770\r\nwhen we're trying\r\nto do this kind of work.\r\n\r\n95\r\n00:04:29,770 --> 00:04:32,739\r\nSo we know that in a challenging\r\neconomic environment right now\r\n\r\n96\r\n00:04:32,739 --> 00:04:35,309\r\nand that's why I'm so pleased\r\nto see my department heads here.\r\n\r\n97\r\n00:04:35,309 --> 00:04:36,944\r\nWe have a One Seattle\r\napproach trying\r\n\r\n98\r\n00:04:36,944 --> 00:04:40,247\r\nto look at our entire system\r\nand think, what makes sense\r\n\r\n99\r\n00:04:40,247 --> 00:04:43,016\r\nas we deal with some\r\nof our fiscal challenges.\r\n\r\n100\r\n00:04:43,016 --> 00:04:47,087\r\nSo, I close by thanking\r\nCouncilmember Mark Solomon\r\n\r\n101\r\n00:04:47,087 --> 00:04:50,157\r\nfor his leadership in sharing\r\nthe land use committee,\r\n\r\n102\r\n00:04:50,157 --> 00:04:53,927\r\nhe's been focused on its\r\nexpanding economic opportunities\r\n\r\n103\r\n00:04:53,927 --> 00:04:55,929\r\nand creating new housing\r\n\r\n104\r\n00:04:55,929 --> 00:04:58,031\r\nand supporting small businesses\r\nthroughout the entire city.\r\n\r\n105\r\n00:04:58,031 --> 00:05:00,167\r\nAnd of course he's been\r\nwith the city for a while,\r\n\r\n106\r\n00:05:00,167 --> 00:05:03,337\r\nmaking sure,\r\nin the public safety realm,\r\n\r\n107\r\n00:05:03,337 --> 00:05:05,239\r\nthings are going along the way,\r\n\r\n108\r\n00:05:05,239 --> 00:05:08,242\r\nhe wants to see them as\r\na crime prevention specialist,\r\n\r\n109\r\n00:05:08,242 --> 00:05:10,010\r\na subject matter expert.\r\n\r\n110\r\n00:05:10,010 --> 00:05:11,645\r\nAnd now he uses his expertise\r\nin other areas.\r\n\r\n111\r\n00:05:11,645 --> 00:05:14,014\r\nAnd so as land use chair,\r\n\r\n112\r\n00:05:14,014 --> 00:05:15,849\r\ncouncil member Solomon\r\nhas been strong work\r\n\r\n113\r\n00:05:15,849 --> 00:05:18,018\r\nto get this legislation\r\nover the finish line\r\n\r\n114\r\n00:05:18,018 --> 00:05:20,220\r\nand we look forward\r\nto continuing our with him.\r\n\r\n115\r\n00:05:20,220 --> 00:05:22,923\r\nAnd I present to you\r\nCouncilmember Mark Solomon.\r\n\r\n116\r\n00:05:22,923 --> 00:05:24,525\r\n-Thank you, Mayor Harrell.\r\n\r\n117\r\n00:05:24,525 --> 00:05:26,260\r\n[ Applause ]\r\n\r\n118\r\n00:05:28,428 --> 00:05:30,898\r\nGood morning, everyone.\r\nThank you for being here.\r\n\r\n119\r\n00:05:30,898 --> 00:05:32,866\r\nI'm happy to be here with you\r\n\r\n120\r\n00:05:32,866 --> 00:05:35,702\r\ntoday to celebrate\r\nthis new piece of legislation.\r\n\r\n121\r\n00:05:35,702 --> 00:05:40,307\r\nWhich will help revitalize\r\nkey areas of downtown Seattle.\r\n\r\n122\r\n00:05:40,307 --> 00:05:42,342\r\nToday we're introducing new law\r\n\r\n123\r\n00:05:42,342 --> 00:05:44,945\r\nthat allows for more flexible\r\nuses of ground floor spaces\r\n\r\n124\r\n00:05:44,945 --> 00:05:47,181\r\nin key areas of our city's\r\ncourt.\r\n\r\n125\r\n00:05:47,181 --> 00:05:49,883\r\nAnd this legislation opens\r\nthe door for a broader range\r\n\r\n126\r\n00:05:49,883 --> 00:05:53,353\r\nof vital police defining\r\nbusinesses\r\n\r\n127\r\n00:05:53,353 --> 00:05:55,689\r\nand creative commercial\r\ndesigned.\r\n\r\n128\r\n00:05:55,689 --> 00:05:57,558\r\nMaking it easier\r\nfor entrepreneurs,\r\n\r\n129\r\n00:05:57,558 --> 00:06:00,227\r\nscientific research groups\r\nand local vendors\r\n\r\n130\r\n00:06:00,227 --> 00:06:04,164\r\nto bring fresh ideas\r\nto our downtown streets.\r\n\r\n131\r\n00:06:04,164 --> 00:06:08,735\r\nAnd as we continue recovering\r\nfrom the impacts COVID-19,\r\n\r\n132\r\n00:06:08,735 --> 00:06:10,804\r\nwe know that reestablishing\r\nthe character\r\n\r\n133\r\n00:06:10,804 --> 00:06:14,508\r\nof our changing downtown,\r\nis imperative.\r\n\r\n134\r\n00:06:14,508 --> 00:06:18,612\r\nWhat people want and need from\r\nour city spaces is evolving.\r\n\r\n135\r\n00:06:18,612 --> 00:06:21,415\r\nAnd this law responds\r\ndirectly to that shift.\r\n\r\n136\r\n00:06:21,415 --> 00:06:23,217\r\nIn a powers property owners\r\n\r\n137\r\n00:06:23,217 --> 00:06:25,385\r\nand small business owners\r\nwith more freedom\r\n\r\n138\r\n00:06:25,385 --> 00:06:30,157\r\nto shape their spaces in ways\r\nthat serve the community.\r\n\r\n139\r\n00:06:30,157 --> 00:06:33,627\r\nWhether that means a pop-up\r\nshop, or a small restaurant,\r\n\r\n140\r\n00:06:33,627 --> 00:06:35,462\r\nor a ground floor\r\n\r\n141\r\n00:06:35,462 --> 00:06:37,998\r\nwhich contributes\r\nto the research and development.\r\n\r\n142\r\n00:06:37,998 --> 00:06:41,034\r\nThat will alter\r\nhow we interact with our world.\r\n\r\n143\r\n00:06:41,034 --> 00:06:44,838\r\nOr even something\r\nwe haven't imagined yet.\r\n\r\n144\r\n00:06:44,838 --> 00:06:46,907\r\nVery critically I\r\nwant to thank many stakeholders\r\n\r\n145\r\n00:06:46,907 --> 00:06:51,011\r\nwho helped shaped this policy\r\nand the SDCI staff\r\n\r\n146\r\n00:06:51,011 --> 00:06:52,813\r\nand the Mayor's staff.\r\n\r\n147\r\n00:06:52,813 --> 00:06:54,748\r\nWho worked extremely hard,\r\n\r\n148\r\n00:06:54,748 --> 00:06:57,017\r\nturning stakeholder feedback\r\nin a new legislation\r\n\r\n149\r\n00:06:57,017 --> 00:06:58,952\r\nto revitalize our downtown.\r\n\r\n150\r\n00:06:58,952 --> 00:07:01,522\r\nI also got to give a shout out\r\nto my policy guy,\r\n\r\n151\r\n00:07:01,522 --> 00:07:03,524\r\nThaddeus Gregory.\r\n\r\n152\r\n00:07:03,524 --> 00:07:05,893\r\nWho did a heavy, a lot of\r\nheavy lifting on this himself.\r\n\r\n153\r\n00:07:05,893 --> 00:07:08,996\r\nI'm not going to let the fact\r\nthat he worked on\r\n\r\n154\r\n00:07:08,996 --> 00:07:10,531\r\nthis go unnoticed.\r\n\r\n155\r\n00:07:10,531 --> 00:07:13,967\r\nSo, thank you.\r\n\r\n156\r\n00:07:13,967 --> 00:07:17,137\r\nTogether we're building\r\na vibrant downtown.\r\n\r\n157\r\n00:07:17,137 --> 00:07:20,974\r\nIt's not just recovering,\r\nbut finding new vibrant life.\r\n\r\n158\r\n00:07:20,974 --> 00:07:24,578\r\nAnd paving the way for a\r\nstronger, more resilient future.\r\n\r\n159\r\n00:07:24,578 --> 00:07:26,213\r\nSo, thank you.\r\n\r\n160\r\n00:07:26,213 --> 00:07:27,681\r\n-Thank you\r\nCouncilmember Solomon.\r\n\r\n161\r\n00:07:27,681 --> 00:07:29,516\r\n[ Applause ]\r\n\r\n162\r\n00:07:32,486 --> 00:07:35,689\r\nAnd I also, Nathan\r\nI didn't see you standing there,\r\n\r\n163\r\n00:07:35,689 --> 00:07:37,391\r\nI want to recognize\r\nNathan Torgelson,\r\n\r\n164\r\n00:07:37,391 --> 00:07:39,426\r\nwho is the SDCI Director,\r\n\r\n165\r\n00:07:39,426 --> 00:07:41,929\r\nthank you for your leadership\r\nand your groups leadership.\r\n\r\n166\r\n00:07:41,929 --> 00:07:43,530\r\nNext you'll hear from SungYang,\r\n\r\n167\r\n00:07:43,530 --> 00:07:45,399\r\nI think many of you\r\nknow who he is,\r\n\r\n168\r\n00:07:45,399 --> 00:07:47,534\r\nChair of the Downtown\r\nSeattle Association Board\r\n\r\n169\r\n00:07:47,534 --> 00:07:50,404\r\nand the Principal\r\nat Pacific Public Affairs.\r\n\r\n170\r\n00:07:50,404 --> 00:07:53,807\r\nAnd has over two decades\r\nof experience\r\n\r\n171\r\n00:07:53,807 --> 00:07:57,678\r\nmanaging public policy.\r\nSung every time I introduce you,\r\n\r\n172\r\n00:07:57,678 --> 00:07:59,847\r\nyou just omit the part that you\r\nwork for the City of Seattle,\r\n\r\n173\r\n00:07:59,847 --> 00:08:02,349\r\nI don't know what\r\nyour slow plan is on this here.\r\n\r\n174\r\n00:08:02,349 --> 00:08:04,351\r\nAs where I met you.\r\n\r\n175\r\n00:08:04,351 --> 00:08:06,887\r\nA former public servant Sung\r\nhas been a champion for arts\r\n\r\n176\r\n00:08:06,887 --> 00:08:09,389\r\nand economic development\r\nin our downtown neighborhoods\r\n\r\n177\r\n00:08:09,389 --> 00:08:11,225\r\nand thank you\r\nfor your consistent\r\n\r\n178\r\n00:08:11,225 --> 00:08:12,392\r\nand strong leadership.\r\n\r\n179\r\n00:08:12,392 --> 00:08:13,994\r\nSung Yang.\r\n-Thank you, Mayor.\r\n\r\n180\r\n00:08:13,994 --> 00:08:16,263\r\n[ Applause ]\r\n\r\n181\r\n00:08:16,263 --> 00:08:18,165\r\nGood morning, everybody.\r\n\r\n182\r\n00:08:18,165 --> 00:08:21,268\r\nI do want to start\r\nby thanking Mayor Harrell\r\n\r\n183\r\n00:08:21,268 --> 00:08:23,103\r\nfor this legislation.\r\n\r\n184\r\n00:08:23,103 --> 00:08:27,541\r\nAnd also for really\r\nhis unwavering dedication,\r\n\r\n185\r\n00:08:27,541 --> 00:08:29,543\r\ncommitment and hard work.\r\n\r\n186\r\n00:08:29,543 --> 00:08:32,212\r\nNobody works harder\r\nat making downtown thrive\r\n\r\n187\r\n00:08:32,212 --> 00:08:35,949\r\nthan Mayor Harrell and I want to\r\ntruly thank him for that.\r\n\r\n188\r\n00:08:35,949 --> 00:08:37,851\r\nI also want to thank\r\nCouncilmember Solomon\r\n\r\n189\r\n00:08:37,851 --> 00:08:39,720\r\nfor spearheading this effort\r\nat the council\r\n\r\n190\r\n00:08:39,720 --> 00:08:42,489\r\nand for rallying his\r\ncolleagues around its approval.\r\n\r\n191\r\n00:08:42,489 --> 00:08:44,224\r\nAnd everyone else here\r\nin this room\r\n\r\n192\r\n00:08:44,224 --> 00:08:47,327\r\nthat brought us\r\nto this really historic occasion\r\n\r\n193\r\n00:08:47,327 --> 00:08:50,364\r\nof the passage of\r\nthese two pieces of legislation.\r\n\r\n194\r\n00:08:50,364 --> 00:08:52,399\r\nDowntown's revitalization,\r\n\r\n195\r\n00:08:52,399 --> 00:08:55,969\r\ncontinued revitalization is\r\ncritical for the entire city.\r\n\r\n196\r\n00:08:55,969 --> 00:08:57,671\r\nAs the regions economic engine\r\n\r\n197\r\n00:08:57,671 --> 00:09:00,073\r\nwhat happens in the core\r\nof Seattle,\r\n\r\n198\r\n00:09:00,073 --> 00:09:02,576\r\nradiates far beyond\r\nits footprint.\r\n\r\n199\r\n00:09:02,576 --> 00:09:04,578\r\nAs you walk through\r\nthe heart of downtown\r\n\r\n200\r\n00:09:04,578 --> 00:09:07,047\r\nyou will see foot traffic\r\nreminiscent\r\n\r\n201\r\n00:09:07,047 --> 00:09:09,116\r\nof pre-pandemic times.\r\n\r\n202\r\n00:09:09,116 --> 00:09:13,453\r\nAnd many of our public spaces\r\nfull of activity and vibrancy.\r\n\r\n203\r\n00:09:13,453 --> 00:09:16,523\r\nBut far too many\r\nof our storefronts remain empty\r\n\r\n204\r\n00:09:16,523 --> 00:09:18,592\r\nand that doesn't send a message\r\n\r\n205\r\n00:09:18,592 --> 00:09:21,695\r\nthat matches\r\nwith the trajectory and reality\r\n\r\n206\r\n00:09:21,695 --> 00:09:23,764\r\nof downtown's upper trajectory.\r\n\r\n207\r\n00:09:23,764 --> 00:09:27,434\r\nThis legislation will help\r\nfill vacant ground floor spaces\r\n\r\n208\r\n00:09:27,434 --> 00:09:29,036\r\nin downtown neighborhoods.\r\n\r\n209\r\n00:09:29,036 --> 00:09:30,804\r\nFilling gaps\r\nin our urban fabric,\r\n\r\n210\r\n00:09:30,804 --> 00:09:33,340\r\nproducing even more activity\r\non our streets.\r\n\r\n211\r\n00:09:33,340 --> 00:09:36,977\r\nAnd driving our\r\nrevitalization efforts forward.\r\n\r\n212\r\n00:09:36,977 --> 00:09:40,214\r\nDowntown needs to have\r\na diversity of businesses\r\n\r\n213\r\n00:09:40,214 --> 00:09:43,851\r\nto serve its diverse population\r\nof residents,\r\n\r\n214\r\n00:09:43,851 --> 00:09:45,786\r\nworkers and visitors.\r\n\r\n215\r\n00:09:45,786 --> 00:09:49,723\r\nBy allowing new business types\r\nto be located,\r\n\r\n216\r\n00:09:49,723 --> 00:09:52,759\r\nhere, we are also\r\ncreating opportunities\r\n\r\n217\r\n00:09:52,759 --> 00:09:56,096\r\nfor entrepreneurs\r\nto call downtown home.\r\n\r\n218\r\n00:09:56,096 --> 00:09:57,898\r\nAnd setting up shop,\r\n\r\n219\r\n00:09:57,898 --> 00:10:01,168\r\ndowntown should feel\r\nlike an attainable goal.\r\n\r\n220\r\n00:10:01,168 --> 00:10:05,606\r\nHere today at a new state of\r\nthe art life sciences facility\r\n\r\n221\r\n00:10:05,606 --> 00:10:09,443\r\nwe are recognizing\r\nhow our downtown is also a hub\r\n\r\n222\r\n00:10:09,443 --> 00:10:11,445\r\nfor research and development.\r\n\r\n223\r\n00:10:11,445 --> 00:10:14,081\r\nA critical industry in our city,\r\n\r\n224\r\n00:10:14,081 --> 00:10:16,717\r\nthat can now expand\r\nto ground floor spaces\r\n\r\n225\r\n00:10:16,717 --> 00:10:19,119\r\nunder this legislation.\r\n\r\n226\r\n00:10:19,119 --> 00:10:23,690\r\nDowntown has made a tremendous\r\ncomeback over the last few years\r\n\r\n227\r\n00:10:23,690 --> 00:10:28,395\r\nunder the Mayor's activation\r\nplan, Mayor's leadership,\r\n\r\n228\r\n00:10:28,395 --> 00:10:30,130\r\nthe work of the council\r\n\r\n229\r\n00:10:30,130 --> 00:10:32,799\r\nand of the Downtown\r\nSeattle Association.\r\n\r\n230\r\n00:10:32,799 --> 00:10:36,537\r\nData from Downtown\r\nSeattle Association downtown's\r\n\r\n231\r\n00:10:36,537 --> 00:10:40,307\r\nrevitalization dashboard\r\nshows that in March\r\n\r\n232\r\n00:10:40,307 --> 00:10:47,447\r\nwe saw a post-pandemic high of\r\nnearly 101,000 workers downtown\r\n\r\n233\r\n00:10:47,447 --> 00:10:49,783\r\non an average per day.\r\n\r\n234\r\n00:10:49,783 --> 00:10:52,986\r\nIn the third month of Amazon's\r\nreturn to five days a week\r\n\r\n235\r\n00:10:52,986 --> 00:10:55,622\r\nin the office,\r\nthe South Lake Union,\r\n\r\n236\r\n00:10:55,622 --> 00:10:57,491\r\nin the Denny Regrade\r\nneighborhood,\r\n\r\n237\r\n00:10:57,491 --> 00:11:03,030\r\nsaw daily worker foot traffic\r\nof nearly 48,000.\r\n\r\n238\r\n00:11:03,030 --> 00:11:07,801\r\nNumbers that are trending closer\r\nto pre-pandemic conditions.\r\n\r\n239\r\n00:11:07,801 --> 00:11:10,971\r\nAnd in a significant,\r\nsignificant development,\r\n\r\n240\r\n00:11:10,971 --> 00:11:12,906\r\nlocal visitors\r\nand these are people\r\n\r\n241\r\n00:11:12,906 --> 00:11:15,209\r\nwho live within 10 miles\r\nof downtown\r\n\r\n242\r\n00:11:15,209 --> 00:11:18,846\r\nare coming to the center city\r\nat an increasing rate.\r\n\r\n243\r\n00:11:18,846 --> 00:11:20,614\r\nIn fact,\r\n\r\n244\r\n00:11:20,614 --> 00:11:24,618\r\nin March 2025\r\nthe number of local visitors\r\n\r\n245\r\n00:11:24,618 --> 00:11:28,622\r\nto downtown\r\nsurpassed pre-pandemic levels.\r\n\r\n246\r\n00:11:28,622 --> 00:11:31,191\r\nSo working with the city\r\nand our partners,\r\n\r\n247\r\n00:11:31,191 --> 00:11:33,160\r\nwe will continue this momentum\r\n\r\n248\r\n00:11:33,160 --> 00:11:35,696\r\nand we're excited to welcome\r\nnew business to downtown.\r\n\r\n249\r\n00:11:35,696 --> 00:11:36,930\r\nThank you very much.\r\n\r\n250\r\n00:11:36,930 --> 00:11:38,198\r\n-Thank you, Sung.\r\n\r\n251\r\n00:11:38,198 --> 00:11:40,067\r\n[ Applause ]\r\n\r\n252\r\n00:11:40,067 --> 00:11:41,401\r\nThank you, Sung.\r\n\r\n253\r\n00:11:41,401 --> 00:11:43,237\r\nNext you're going to hear\r\nfrom Alex Aigner,\r\n\r\n254\r\n00:11:43,237 --> 00:11:45,772\r\nwho is the Executive Vice\r\nPresident of Development\r\n\r\n255\r\n00:11:45,772 --> 00:11:47,774\r\nat Lincoln Property Company.\r\n\r\n256\r\n00:11:47,774 --> 00:11:49,843\r\nOverseeing the firms\r\nredevelopment projects\r\n\r\n257\r\n00:11:49,843 --> 00:11:54,548\r\nthroughout Washington and Oregon\r\nincluding right here at 225th.\r\n\r\n258\r\n00:11:54,548 --> 00:11:56,183\r\nAnd Lincoln's\r\ndevelopment pipeline\r\n\r\n259\r\n00:11:56,183 --> 00:11:57,918\r\nin the pacific northwest\r\n\r\n260\r\n00:11:57,918 --> 00:12:00,487\r\nincludes over 1,500\r\nmulti-family units.\r\n\r\n261\r\n00:12:00,487 --> 00:12:03,924\r\nAnd more than 500,000\r\nsquare feet of commercial,\r\n\r\n262\r\n00:12:03,924 --> 00:12:06,193\r\nretail and life\r\nscience developments.\r\n\r\n263\r\n00:12:06,193 --> 00:12:08,762\r\nThis is the, Lincoln's\r\nexactly the kind of company\r\n\r\n264\r\n00:12:08,762 --> 00:12:10,797\r\nwe recruit\r\nand we want to stay here,\r\n\r\n265\r\n00:12:10,797 --> 00:12:12,533\r\nbecause there is such a vital,\r\n\r\n266\r\n00:12:12,533 --> 00:12:14,201\r\nthey play such a vital role\r\nin our success.\r\n\r\n267\r\n00:12:14,201 --> 00:12:15,769\r\nAlex, please take the mic.\r\n\r\n268\r\n00:12:15,769 --> 00:12:18,172\r\n-Thank you. Good morning.\r\n\r\n269\r\n00:12:18,172 --> 00:12:21,408\r\nThank you Mayor Harrell\r\nand Councilmember Solomon.\r\n\r\n270\r\n00:12:21,408 --> 00:12:23,544\r\nThank you for everyone\r\ninvolved at the city\r\n\r\n271\r\n00:12:23,544 --> 00:12:26,413\r\nfor all your hard work to push\r\nthis legislation through.\r\n\r\n272\r\n00:12:26,413 --> 00:12:28,148\r\nThank you to Ian Morrison,\r\n\r\n273\r\n00:12:28,148 --> 00:12:31,151\r\nour Land Use Council\r\nat McCullough Hill Leary\r\n\r\n274\r\n00:12:31,151 --> 00:12:33,320\r\nfor all the hard work\r\nthat you've done as well.\r\n\r\n275\r\n00:12:33,320 --> 00:12:35,322\r\nMy name is Alex Aigner,\r\n\r\n276\r\n00:12:35,322 --> 00:12:38,659\r\nI am an Executive Vice President\r\nat Lincoln Property Company.\r\n\r\n277\r\n00:12:38,659 --> 00:12:40,260\r\nAnd with our partners,\r\n\r\n278\r\n00:12:40,260 --> 00:12:42,729\r\nIntercontinental\r\nReal Estate Corporation,\r\n\r\n279\r\n00:12:42,729 --> 00:12:47,134\r\nwe developed, own and manage\r\nthis life science building.\r\n\r\n280\r\n00:12:47,134 --> 00:12:51,071\r\nWe want to express our sincere\r\nappreciation to the Mayor\r\n\r\n281\r\n00:12:51,071 --> 00:12:52,973\r\nand to Council Solomon\r\nfor your leadership\r\n\r\n282\r\n00:12:52,973 --> 00:12:55,843\r\nin passing\r\nthis important legislation.\r\n\r\n283\r\n00:12:55,843 --> 00:12:59,046\r\nBy expanding the types\r\nof street level uses permitted\r\n\r\n284\r\n00:12:59,046 --> 00:13:00,981\r\nin our buildings,\r\n\r\n285\r\n00:13:00,981 --> 00:13:03,550\r\nyou're helping unlock\r\nopportunities for innovation,\r\n\r\n286\r\n00:13:03,550 --> 00:13:07,588\r\nactivation and connection\r\nin key parts of our city.\r\n\r\n287\r\n00:13:07,588 --> 00:13:10,791\r\nThis is a kind of\r\nregulatory flexibility,\r\n\r\n288\r\n00:13:10,791 --> 00:13:14,828\r\nit's exactly what we need\r\nright now to bring new life\r\n\r\n289\r\n00:13:14,828 --> 00:13:18,599\r\ninto our ground floor spaces.\r\nThese uses attract foot traffic,\r\n\r\n290\r\n00:13:18,599 --> 00:13:22,703\r\ncreate jobs and contribute\r\nto a more engaging\r\n\r\n291\r\n00:13:22,703 --> 00:13:24,938\r\nand walkable urban experience.\r\n\r\n292\r\n00:13:24,938 --> 00:13:27,574\r\nAt 225th\r\nwe're matching the city's\r\n\r\n293\r\n00:13:27,574 --> 00:13:30,310\r\nforward thinking policy\r\nby reimagining\r\n\r\n294\r\n00:13:30,310 --> 00:13:32,145\r\nhow space can be used.\r\n\r\n295\r\n00:13:32,145 --> 00:13:33,647\r\nSo we've launched CoLabs,\r\n\r\n296\r\n00:13:33,647 --> 00:13:36,016\r\na biotech incubator designed\r\n\r\n297\r\n00:13:36,016 --> 00:13:39,786\r\nto support early stage life\r\nscience companies in Seattle.\r\n\r\n298\r\n00:13:39,786 --> 00:13:43,056\r\nThrough CoLabs\r\nwe provide flexible lab space\r\n\r\n299\r\n00:13:43,056 --> 00:13:46,460\r\nand operational support\r\nto help startups grow,\r\n\r\n300\r\n00:13:46,460 --> 00:13:49,096\r\nattract investment and scale.\r\n\r\n301\r\n00:13:49,096 --> 00:13:53,567\r\nOur goal is to ensure the next\r\ngeneration of biotech companies,\r\n\r\n302\r\n00:13:53,567 --> 00:13:55,502\r\nnot only start in Seattle,\r\n\r\n303\r\n00:13:55,502 --> 00:13:57,938\r\nbut grow here and thrive here.\r\n\r\n304\r\n00:13:57,938 --> 00:14:01,108\r\nAnd help position Seattle\r\nas a key hub in the nation\r\n\r\n305\r\n00:14:01,108 --> 00:14:02,910\r\nfor medical research.\r\n\r\n306\r\n00:14:02,910 --> 00:14:05,179\r\nThank you again Mayor\r\nand Councilman\r\n\r\n307\r\n00:14:05,179 --> 00:14:07,981\r\nfor taking this bold\r\nand thoughtful action.\r\n\r\n308\r\n00:14:07,981 --> 00:14:12,419\r\nThis legislation is a meaningful\r\nstep to a more vibrant,\r\n\r\n309\r\n00:14:12,419 --> 00:14:14,621\r\nresilient and inclusive\r\ndowntown.\r\n\r\n310\r\n00:14:14,621 --> 00:14:17,090\r\nAnd Lincoln Property Company\r\nand Intercontinental\r\n\r\n311\r\n00:14:17,090 --> 00:14:18,659\r\nare proud to be a part of it.\r\n\r\n312\r\n00:14:18,659 --> 00:14:20,127\r\n-Thank you, Alex.\r\n\r\n313\r\n00:14:20,127 --> 00:14:21,828\r\n[ Applause ]\r\n\r\n314\r\n00:14:25,365 --> 00:14:26,834\r\nNext our closer.\r\n\r\n315\r\n00:14:29,069 --> 00:14:32,406\r\nDo you remember the show,\r\nthis is bad, this here's 222,\r\n\r\n316\r\n00:14:32,406 --> 00:14:34,408\r\ndo you remember\r\nthe show Room 222?\r\n\r\n317\r\n00:14:34,408 --> 00:14:35,409\r\nDo any of you remember that?\r\n\r\n318\r\n00:14:35,409 --> 00:14:37,377\r\n-I do.\r\n\r\n319\r\n00:14:37,377 --> 00:14:39,346\r\n-You are, you and I are\r\nthe only ones to remember that.\r\n\r\n320\r\n00:14:39,346 --> 00:14:41,582\r\nYou remember it too,\r\nokay, it was a popular show,\r\n\r\n321\r\n00:14:41,582 --> 00:14:44,117\r\nI was going to try\r\nto weave that into the room.\r\n\r\n322\r\n00:14:44,117 --> 00:14:45,385\r\nOkay, so that's what\r\nI first thought of\r\n\r\n323\r\n00:14:45,385 --> 00:14:46,653\r\nwhen I saw that address.\r\n\r\n324\r\n00:14:46,653 --> 00:14:48,522\r\n-I was very young.\r\n\r\n325\r\n00:14:48,522 --> 00:14:51,925\r\n-You were very, I was\r\nin college, no I'm just kidding.\r\n\r\n326\r\n00:14:51,925 --> 00:14:54,461\r\nSo as many of you know\r\nbecause the great work\r\n\r\n327\r\n00:14:54,461 --> 00:14:56,296\r\nthat Christopher\r\nand his organizations done,\r\n\r\n328\r\n00:14:56,296 --> 00:14:59,766\r\nhe's the CEO of Community\r\nRoots Housing since 2007\r\n\r\n329\r\n00:14:59,766 --> 00:15:02,569\r\nand he's led the organization\r\nthrough significant growth.\r\n\r\n330\r\n00:15:02,569 --> 00:15:05,472\r\nAnd many award winning\r\nhousing projects and.\r\n\r\n331\r\n00:15:05,472 --> 00:15:07,641\r\nWe know he'll be retiring\r\nlater this year\r\n\r\n332\r\n00:15:07,641 --> 00:15:09,409\r\nand we want to thank\r\nyou Christopher,\r\n\r\n333\r\n00:15:09,409 --> 00:15:11,778\r\nyou're just untiring\r\nenergy and commitment\r\n\r\n334\r\n00:15:11,778 --> 00:15:13,614\r\nto affordable housing\r\n\r\n335\r\n00:15:13,614 --> 00:15:15,649\r\nand a strong partnership\r\nwith the city of Seattle.\r\n\r\n336\r\n00:15:15,649 --> 00:15:18,285\r\nAnd all the work you've done to\r\naddress housing affordability.\r\n\r\n337\r\n00:15:18,285 --> 00:15:20,654\r\nSo closer, Chris, take us home.\r\n\r\n338\r\n00:15:20,654 --> 00:15:21,922\r\nAlright.\r\n-Thank you, Mayor.\r\n\r\n339\r\n00:15:21,922 --> 00:15:23,824\r\n[ Applause ]\r\n\r\n340\r\n00:15:26,326 --> 00:15:27,427\r\nThank you, all.\r\n\r\n341\r\n00:15:27,427 --> 00:15:29,062\r\nAgain, my names is\r\nChris Persons,\r\n\r\n342\r\n00:15:29,062 --> 00:15:31,632\r\nI'm the CEO\r\nof Community Roots Housing.\r\n\r\n343\r\n00:15:31,632 --> 00:15:36,303\r\nWe own and operate\r\n46 properties in Seattle\r\n\r\n344\r\n00:15:36,303 --> 00:15:40,374\r\ncomprising almost 2,000\r\naffordable apartments.\r\n\r\n345\r\n00:15:40,374 --> 00:15:44,077\r\nWe also have three\r\nnew projects under construction\r\n\r\n346\r\n00:15:44,077 --> 00:15:47,481\r\ntoday comprising\r\nnearly 400 more.\r\n\r\n347\r\n00:15:47,481 --> 00:15:50,417\r\nAnd our future development\r\npipeline includes\r\n\r\n348\r\n00:15:50,417 --> 00:15:53,253\r\nmore than 700 additional homes.\r\n\r\n349\r\n00:15:53,253 --> 00:15:55,756\r\nCommunity Roots Housing\r\nhas been developing\r\n\r\n350\r\n00:15:55,756 --> 00:15:58,225\r\nand operating affordable\r\nmulti-family properties\r\n\r\n351\r\n00:15:58,225 --> 00:16:00,561\r\nin Seattle for 50 years.\r\n\r\n352\r\n00:16:00,561 --> 00:16:05,232\r\nAnd every year it gets harder\r\nand more expensive.\r\n\r\n353\r\n00:16:05,232 --> 00:16:09,169\r\nI tell, if you've got IT\r\nprofessionals that work for you,\r\n\r\n354\r\n00:16:09,169 --> 00:16:12,372\r\nor an IT team\r\nthis might resonate with you.\r\n\r\n355\r\n00:16:12,372 --> 00:16:17,845\r\nI tell my IT director, who I\r\nlove, I tell him, all the time,\r\n\r\n356\r\n00:16:17,845 --> 00:16:21,548\r\njust make it easier\r\nfor me to do work.\r\n\r\n357\r\n00:16:21,548 --> 00:16:26,053\r\nAll I want to do is work\r\nand get my job done.\r\n\r\n358\r\n00:16:26,053 --> 00:16:29,289\r\nAs a prominent\r\naffordable housing developer,\r\n\r\n359\r\n00:16:29,289 --> 00:16:32,526\r\nall I want to do is\r\nbuild more affordable housing.\r\n\r\n360\r\n00:16:32,526 --> 00:16:35,062\r\nMake it easier\r\nfor us to do our work.\r\n\r\n361\r\n00:16:35,062 --> 00:16:37,865\r\nAnd that's what\r\nthis legislation does.\r\n\r\n362\r\n00:16:37,865 --> 00:16:41,401\r\nThank you to City Council\r\nand Mayor Harrell\r\n\r\n363\r\n00:16:41,401 --> 00:16:45,606\r\nfor making this no-nonsense\r\nlegislation happen.\r\n\r\n364\r\n00:16:45,606 --> 00:16:48,108\r\nBy allowing\r\nCommunity Roots projects\r\n\r\n365\r\n00:16:48,108 --> 00:16:52,346\r\nthat have temporarily stalled\r\ndue to pandemic related delays.\r\n\r\n366\r\n00:16:52,346 --> 00:16:55,115\r\nTo allow these projects\r\nto move forward\r\n\r\n367\r\n00:16:55,115 --> 00:16:58,185\r\nunder the very stringent\r\nenergy codes,\r\n\r\n368\r\n00:16:58,185 --> 00:17:00,487\r\nthey were already designed for,\r\n\r\n369\r\n00:17:00,487 --> 00:17:04,758\r\nsaves us millions of dollars in\r\nredesign and development costs.\r\n\r\n370\r\n00:17:04,758 --> 00:17:07,394\r\nAnd allows our projects\r\nto move forward.\r\n\r\n371\r\n00:17:07,394 --> 00:17:09,997\r\nEnsuring that affordable housing\r\nwill be delivered\r\n\r\n372\r\n00:17:09,997 --> 00:17:12,065\r\nto low income communities.\r\n\r\n373\r\n00:17:12,065 --> 00:17:14,968\r\nSeattle remains one\r\nof the most environmentally\r\n\r\n374\r\n00:17:14,968 --> 00:17:17,237\r\nsustainable city's\r\nin the country.\r\n\r\n375\r\n00:17:17,237 --> 00:17:19,273\r\nThe buildings\r\n\r\n376\r\n00:17:19,273 --> 00:17:21,108\r\nthat Community Roots Housing\r\nhas developed based on a 2015\r\n\r\n377\r\n00:17:21,108 --> 00:17:24,578\r\nand 2018 codes are greener\r\n\r\n378\r\n00:17:24,578 --> 00:17:28,382\r\nand more energy efficient\r\nthan at any time in history.\r\n\r\n379\r\n00:17:28,382 --> 00:17:29,416\r\nAnd they all\r\n\r\n380\r\n00:17:29,416 --> 00:17:30,784\r\ncomply with stringent\r\n\r\n381\r\n00:17:30,784 --> 00:17:32,553\r\nWashington State Evergreen\r\n\r\n382\r\n00:17:32,553 --> 00:17:35,455\r\nSustainable Development\r\nStandards.\r\n\r\n383\r\n00:17:35,455 --> 00:17:39,293\r\nAs we continue to work together\r\nto resolve the housing crisis\r\n\r\n384\r\n00:17:39,293 --> 00:17:41,295\r\nin our city,\r\n\r\n385\r\n00:17:41,295 --> 00:17:45,265\r\nI look forward to continuing to\r\nwork closely with Mayor Harrell,\r\n\r\n386\r\n00:17:45,265 --> 00:17:49,570\r\nthe City Council\r\nand the entire city.\r\n\r\n387\r\n00:17:49,570 --> 00:17:52,806\r\nTo rapidly develop\r\naffordable housing,\r\n\r\n388\r\n00:17:52,806 --> 00:17:56,109\r\nwhile never compromising on our\r\ncommitment to sustainability.\r\n\r\n389\r\n00:17:56,109 --> 00:17:57,878\r\nThank you.\r\n-Thank you, Chris.\r\n\r\n390\r\n00:17:57,878 --> 00:18:01,815\r\n[ Applause ]\r\n\r\n391\r\n00:18:01,815 --> 00:18:03,550\r\nThank you, Chris.\r\n\r\n392\r\n00:18:03,550 --> 00:18:04,751\r\nSo we're going to sign\r\nsome legislation.\r\n\r\n393\r\n00:18:04,751 --> 00:18:06,520\r\nAnd I want to,\r\n\r\n394\r\n00:18:06,520 --> 00:18:08,555\r\nagain, thank you\r\nfor the community leaders and\r\n\r\n395\r\n00:18:08,555 --> 00:18:13,393\r\nhousing leaders in potential\r\ntenants doing this great work.\r\n\r\n396\r\n00:18:13,393 --> 00:18:15,796\r\nAnd particularly\r\nour departments here.\r\n\r\n397\r\n00:18:15,796 --> 00:18:18,131\r\nOur One Seattle Approach\r\nyou're going to see right\r\n\r\n398\r\n00:18:18,131 --> 00:18:22,703\r\nwhere we need it to be,\r\nwhich is vibrant, active, fun,\r\n\r\n399\r\n00:18:22,703 --> 00:18:24,705\r\njoyful on a great day.\r\n\r\n400\r\n00:18:24,705 --> 00:18:26,206\r\nSo thank you for being here,\r\n\r\n401\r\n00:18:26,206 --> 00:18:29,276\r\nand let's sign some legislation\r\nso I can -- Pass me some pens.\r\n\r\n402\r\n00:18:29,276 --> 00:18:30,577\r\nOkay.\r\n\r\n403\r\n00:18:51,031 --> 00:18:53,000\r\n-Right here, Mayor.\r\nOne, two, and three.\r\n\r\n404\r\n00:18:53,000 --> 00:18:55,269\r\nOne, two, and three.\r\nThank you.\r\n\r\n405\r\n00:19:24,097 --> 00:19:25,232\r\n-Yay!\r\n\r\n406\r\n00:19:25,232 --> 00:19:27,267\r\n[ Cheers and applause ]",
"text": "♪♪\n♪♪\n-It's all about arts and culture,\neverything we do is about activation and expression\nand SDOT director Adiam Emery.\nThank you for being here as well\nand your great transportation leadership,\nwhich is gotten some attention, some good attention lately.\nI also want to thank Lincoln Property\nfor hosting us here today at the state of the art 225th building.\nThis is amazing, isn't it?\nI'm talking about the weather by the way.\nThis site is amazing,\nthe architectural statements that are made, the feel of it\nand most importantly\nwhat we're trying to do to activate this area.\nAnd support the growing life sciences and biotechnology\nhub here in South Lake Union.\nWe know that this is an incredible industry,\none we do not take for advantage -- for -- take,\nWhat's the word I'm trying to find?\nFor granted. It's been a long week so far.\nCreating over 25,000 jobs in the sector here in King County,\nWashington and just do amazing work for global health\nand regional health and the kinds of things\nthey're working on.\nYou know we get criticized from the other Washington\nfor some of our commitments to things like equity and gender\nfairness, and climate change.\nWe get attacked for our belief in science and how we are,\nwe believe in the benefits of research grants at a time\nwhere we have to fight for this kind of commitment.\nAnd I have leaders around me that will talk more about that,\nbut the fact is, is housing, jobs,\nand a diversity of small businesses\nare critical to our economic vitality.\nCritical to us being vibrant here in downtown\nand a little north of downtown.\nDowntown runs on people.\nOn small businesses, on ideas.\nAnd our downtown activation plan,\nthat I'm very proud of the planning\nthat we did,\nbut most importantly the implementation as well.\nAnd I want to thank our Office of Economic Development\nand that regard as well.\nWe are making progress again to make downtown safe,\nthriving, vibrant, and critical neighborhood for residents,\nworkers and visitors alike.\nSo, the first piece of legislation\nwe'll be signing this morning\nwill help fill vacant storefronts by expanding\nground level commercial uses.\nWhich will in effect boost our economy\nand activate our streets with more people.\nIn this particular facility, again in the biotech space,\nwe couldn't be more excited.\nThis will broaden the pull of tenants for ground floor spaces\nand allowing more entrepreneurs,\nand free thinkers and small business owners\nto call downtown Seattle home.\nAnd we actively recruit these types of tenants\nand we're excited about what we're seeing.\nNew businesses will be allowed on ground floor areas.\nThis will include medical offices,\nresearch and development,\nlaboratories, food processing, horticultural operations,\ncrafts, manufacturing, art installations and many more.\nAnd again I want to thank SDCI for their wisdom\nin thinking about how we can think outside of the box.\nAnd indeed, Chief Operating Officer Marco Lowe\nand his group for the housing work.\nThe housing ideas that have come forward in this work.\nThe second piece of legislation\nwill extend building permits for projects previously vested\nunder our old codes.\nAnd this will in effect allow projects to proceed\nwithout the time and cost of applying for new permits.\nWe think this is a critical strategy,\nwhich by extending these permits,\nit will prevent hopefully the potential loss\nof 29,000 planned units of housing.\nIncluding many affordable housing units and housing\nprojects planned for downtown.\nAnd you'll from Chris Persons later.\nAnd I want to thank Chris and his organization,\nCommunity Roots, for doing the work that they are doing.\nThese affordable housing units and housing\nprojects planned for downtown not only house people,\nwhich is the most important thing,\nthey also produce about $13.4 million in sales tax\nand $75 million in MHA fees.\nSo it's a win-win scenario\nwhen we're trying to do this kind of work.\nSo we know that in a challenging economic environment right now\nand that's why I'm so pleased to see my department heads here.\nWe have a One Seattle approach trying\nto look at our entire system and think, what makes sense\nas we deal with some of our fiscal challenges.\nSo, I close by thanking Councilmember Mark Solomon\nfor his leadership in sharing the land use committee,\nhe's been focused on its expanding economic opportunities\nand creating new housing\nand supporting small businesses throughout the entire city.\nAnd of course he's been with the city for a while,\nmaking sure, in the public safety realm,\nthings are going along the way,\nhe wants to see them as a crime prevention specialist,\na subject matter expert.\nAnd now he uses his expertise in other areas.\nAnd so as land use chair,\ncouncil member Solomon has been strong work\nto get this legislation over the finish line\nand we look forward to continuing our with him.\nAnd I present to you Councilmember Mark Solomon.\n-Thank you, Mayor Harrell.\n[ Applause ]\nGood morning, everyone. Thank you for being here.\nI'm happy to be here with you\ntoday to celebrate this new piece of legislation.\nWhich will help revitalize key areas of downtown Seattle.\nToday we're introducing new law\nthat allows for more flexible uses of ground floor spaces\nin key areas of our city's court.\nAnd this legislation opens the door for a broader range\nof vital police defining businesses\nand creative commercial designed.\nMaking it easier for entrepreneurs,\nscientific research groups and local vendors\nto bring fresh ideas to our downtown streets.\nAnd as we continue recovering from the impacts COVID-19,\nwe know that reestablishing the character\nof our changing downtown, is imperative.\nWhat people want and need from our city spaces is evolving.\nAnd this law responds directly to that shift.\nIn a powers property owners\nand small business owners with more freedom\nto shape their spaces in ways that serve the community.\nWhether that means a pop-up shop, or a small restaurant,\nor a ground floor\nwhich contributes to the research and development.\nThat will alter how we interact with our world.\nOr even something we haven't imagined yet.\nVery critically I want to thank many stakeholders\nwho helped shaped this policy and the SDCI staff\nand the Mayor's staff.\nWho worked extremely hard,\nturning stakeholder feedback in a new legislation\nto revitalize our downtown.\nI also got to give a shout out to my policy guy,\nThaddeus Gregory.\nWho did a heavy, a lot of heavy lifting on this himself.\nI'm not going to let the fact that he worked on\nthis go unnoticed.\nSo, thank you.\nTogether we're building a vibrant downtown.\nIt's not just recovering, but finding new vibrant life.\nAnd paving the way for a stronger, more resilient future.\nSo, thank you.\n-Thank you Councilmember Solomon.\n[ Applause ]\nAnd I also, Nathan I didn't see you standing there,\nI want to recognize Nathan Torgelson,\nwho is the SDCI Director,\nthank you for your leadership and your groups leadership.\nNext you'll hear from SungYang,\nI think many of you know who he is,\nChair of the Downtown Seattle Association Board\nand the Principal at Pacific Public Affairs.\nAnd has over two decades of experience\nmanaging public policy. Sung every time I introduce you,\nyou just omit the part that you work for the City of Seattle,\nI don't know what your slow plan is on this here.\nAs where I met you.\nA former public servant Sung has been a champion for arts\nand economic development in our downtown neighborhoods\nand thank you for your consistent\nand strong leadership.\nSung Yang. -Thank you, Mayor.\n[ Applause ]\nGood morning, everybody.\nI do want to start by thanking Mayor Harrell\nfor this legislation.\nAnd also for really his unwavering dedication,\ncommitment and hard work.\nNobody works harder at making downtown thrive\nthan Mayor Harrell and I want to truly thank him for that.\nI also want to thank Councilmember Solomon\nfor spearheading this effort at the council\nand for rallying his colleagues around its approval.\nAnd everyone else here in this room\nthat brought us to this really historic occasion\nof the passage of these two pieces of legislation.\nDowntown's revitalization,\ncontinued revitalization is critical for the entire city.\nAs the regions economic engine\nwhat happens in the core of Seattle,\nradiates far beyond its footprint.\nAs you walk through the heart of downtown\nyou will see foot traffic reminiscent\nof pre-pandemic times.\nAnd many of our public spaces full of activity and vibrancy.\nBut far too many of our storefronts remain empty\nand that doesn't send a message\nthat matches with the trajectory and reality\nof downtown's upper trajectory.\nThis legislation will help fill vacant ground floor spaces\nin downtown neighborhoods.\nFilling gaps in our urban fabric,\nproducing even more activity on our streets.\nAnd driving our revitalization efforts forward.\nDowntown needs to have a diversity of businesses\nto serve its diverse population of residents,\nworkers and visitors.\nBy allowing new business types to be located,\nhere, we are also creating opportunities\nfor entrepreneurs to call downtown home.\nAnd setting up shop,\ndowntown should feel like an attainable goal.\nHere today at a new state of the art life sciences facility\nwe are recognizing how our downtown is also a hub\nfor research and development.\nA critical industry in our city,\nthat can now expand to ground floor spaces\nunder this legislation.\nDowntown has made a tremendous comeback over the last few years\nunder the Mayor's activation plan, Mayor's leadership,\nthe work of the council\nand of the Downtown Seattle Association.\nData from Downtown Seattle Association downtown's\nrevitalization dashboard shows that in March\nwe saw a post-pandemic high of nearly 101,000 workers downtown\non an average per day.\nIn the third month of Amazon's return to five days a week\nin the office, the South Lake Union,\nin the Denny Regrade neighborhood,\nsaw daily worker foot traffic of nearly 48,000.\nNumbers that are trending closer to pre-pandemic conditions.\nAnd in a significant, significant development,\nlocal visitors and these are people\nwho live within 10 miles of downtown\nare coming to the center city at an increasing rate.\nIn fact,\nin March 2025 the number of local visitors\nto downtown surpassed pre-pandemic levels.\nSo working with the city and our partners,\nwe will continue this momentum\nand we're excited to welcome new business to downtown.\nThank you very much.\n-Thank you, Sung.\n[ Applause ]\nThank you, Sung.\nNext you're going to hear from Alex Aigner,\nwho is the Executive Vice President of Development\nat Lincoln Property Company.\nOverseeing the firms redevelopment projects\nthroughout Washington and Oregon including right here at 225th.\nAnd Lincoln's development pipeline\nin the pacific northwest\nincludes over 1,500 multi-family units.\nAnd more than 500,000 square feet of commercial,\nretail and life science developments.\nThis is the, Lincoln's exactly the kind of company\nwe recruit and we want to stay here,\nbecause there is such a vital,\nthey play such a vital role in our success.\nAlex, please take the mic.\n-Thank you. Good morning.\nThank you Mayor Harrell and Councilmember Solomon.\nThank you for everyone involved at the city\nfor all your hard work to push this legislation through.\nThank you to Ian Morrison,\nour Land Use Council at McCullough Hill Leary\nfor all the hard work that you've done as well.\nMy name is Alex Aigner,\nI am an Executive Vice President at Lincoln Property Company.\nAnd with our partners,\nIntercontinental Real Estate Corporation,\nwe developed, own and manage this life science building.\nWe want to express our sincere appreciation to the Mayor\nand to Council Solomon for your leadership\nin passing this important legislation.\nBy expanding the types of street level uses permitted\nin our buildings,\nyou're helping unlock opportunities for innovation,\nactivation and connection in key parts of our city.\nThis is a kind of regulatory flexibility,\nit's exactly what we need right now to bring new life\ninto our ground floor spaces. These uses attract foot traffic,\ncreate jobs and contribute to a more engaging\nand walkable urban experience.\nAt 225th we're matching the city's\nforward thinking policy by reimagining\nhow space can be used.\nSo we've launched CoLabs,\na biotech incubator designed\nto support early stage life science companies in Seattle.\nThrough CoLabs we provide flexible lab space\nand operational support to help startups grow,\nattract investment and scale.\nOur goal is to ensure the next generation of biotech companies,\nnot only start in Seattle,\nbut grow here and thrive here.\nAnd help position Seattle as a key hub in the nation\nfor medical research.\nThank you again Mayor and Councilman\nfor taking this bold and thoughtful action.\nThis legislation is a meaningful step to a more vibrant,\nresilient and inclusive downtown.\nAnd Lincoln Property Company and Intercontinental\nare proud to be a part of it.\n-Thank you, Alex.\n[ Applause ]\nNext our closer.\nDo you remember the show, this is bad, this here's 222,\ndo you remember the show Room 222?\nDo any of you remember that?\n-I do.\n-You are, you and I are the only ones to remember that.\nYou remember it too, okay, it was a popular show,\nI was going to try to weave that into the room.\nOkay, so that's what I first thought of\nwhen I saw that address.\n-I was very young.\n-You were very, I was in college, no I'm just kidding.\nSo as many of you know because the great work\nthat Christopher and his organizations done,\nhe's the CEO of Community Roots Housing since 2007\nand he's led the organization through significant growth.\nAnd many award winning housing projects and.\nWe know he'll be retiring later this year\nand we want to thank you Christopher,\nyou're just untiring energy and commitment\nto affordable housing\nand a strong partnership with the city of Seattle.\nAnd all the work you've done to address housing affordability.\nSo closer, Chris, take us home.\nAlright. -Thank you, Mayor.\n[ Applause ]\nThank you, all.\nAgain, my names is Chris Persons,\nI'm the CEO of Community Roots Housing.\nWe own and operate 46 properties in Seattle\ncomprising almost 2,000 affordable apartments.\nWe also have three new projects under construction\ntoday comprising nearly 400 more.\nAnd our future development pipeline includes\nmore than 700 additional homes.\nCommunity Roots Housing has been developing\nand operating affordable multi-family properties\nin Seattle for 50 years.\nAnd every year it gets harder and more expensive.\nI tell, if you've got IT professionals that work for you,\nor an IT team this might resonate with you.\nI tell my IT director, who I love, I tell him, all the time,\njust make it easier for me to do work.\nAll I want to do is work and get my job done.\nAs a prominent affordable housing developer,\nall I want to do is build more affordable housing.\nMake it easier for us to do our work.\nAnd that's what this legislation does.\nThank you to City Council and Mayor Harrell\nfor making this no-nonsense legislation happen.\nBy allowing Community Roots projects\nthat have temporarily stalled due to pandemic related delays.\nTo allow these projects to move forward\nunder the very stringent energy codes,\nthey were already designed for,\nsaves us millions of dollars in redesign and development costs.\nAnd allows our projects to move forward.\nEnsuring that affordable housing will be delivered\nto low income communities.\nSeattle remains one of the most environmentally\nsustainable city's in the country.\nThe buildings\nthat Community Roots Housing has developed based on a 2015\nand 2018 codes are greener\nand more energy efficient than at any time in history.\nAnd they all\ncomply with stringent\nWashington State Evergreen\nSustainable Development Standards.\nAs we continue to work together to resolve the housing crisis\nin our city,\nI look forward to continuing to work closely with Mayor Harrell,\nthe City Council and the entire city.\nTo rapidly develop affordable housing,\nwhile never compromising on our commitment to sustainability.\nThank you. -Thank you, Chris.\n[ Applause ]\nThank you, Chris.\nSo we're going to sign some legislation.\nAnd I want to,\nagain, thank you for the community leaders and\nhousing leaders in potential tenants doing this great work.\nAnd particularly our departments here.\nOur One Seattle Approach you're going to see right\nwhere we need it to be, which is vibrant, active, fun,\njoyful on a great day.\nSo thank you for being here,\nand let's sign some legislation so I can -- Pass me some pens.\nOkay.\n-Right here, Mayor. One, two, and three.\nOne, two, and three. Thank you.\n-Yay!\n[ Cheers and applause ]",
"entries": [
{
"index": 1,
"text": "♪♪",
"startTime": "00:00:00,934",
"endTime": "00:00:07,875"
},
{
"index": 2,
"text": "♪♪",
"startTime": "00:00:07,875",
"endTime": "00:00:14,815"
},
{
"index": 3,
"text": "-It's all about arts and culture,",
"startTime": "00:00:14,815",
"endTime": "00:00:16,483"
},
{
"index": 4,
"text": "everything we do is about activation and expression",
"startTime": "00:00:16,483",
"endTime": "00:00:19,953"
},
{
"index": 5,
"text": "and SDOT director Adiam Emery.",
"startTime": "00:00:19,953",
"endTime": "00:00:21,822"
},
{
"index": 6,
"text": "Thank you for being here as well",
"startTime": "00:00:21,822",
"endTime": "00:00:23,090"
},
{
"index": 7,
"text": "and your great transportation leadership,",
"startTime": "00:00:23,090",
"endTime": "00:00:25,292"
},
{
"index": 8,
"text": "which is gotten some attention, some good attention lately.",
"startTime": "00:00:25,292",
"endTime": "00:00:28,161"
},
{
"index": 9,
"text": "I also want to thank Lincoln Property",
"startTime": "00:00:28,161",
"endTime": "00:00:30,163"
},
{
"index": 10,
"text": "for hosting us here today at the state of the art 225th building.",
"startTime": "00:00:30,163",
"endTime": "00:00:34,301"
},
{
"index": 11,
"text": "This is amazing, isn't it?",
"startTime": "00:00:34,301",
"endTime": "00:00:36,770"
},
{
"index": 12,
"text": "I'm talking about the weather by the way.",
"startTime": "00:00:36,770",
"endTime": "00:00:38,972"
},
{
"index": 13,
"text": "This site is amazing,",
"startTime": "00:00:38,972",
"endTime": "00:00:41,008"
},
{
"index": 14,
"text": "the architectural statements that are made, the feel of it",
"startTime": "00:00:41,008",
"endTime": "00:00:43,544"
},
{
"index": 15,
"text": "and most importantly",
"startTime": "00:00:43,544",
"endTime": "00:00:44,978"
},
{
"index": 16,
"text": "what we're trying to do to activate this area.",
"startTime": "00:00:44,978",
"endTime": "00:00:46,847"
},
{
"index": 17,
"text": "And support the growing life sciences and biotechnology",
"startTime": "00:00:46,847",
"endTime": "00:00:51,685"
},
{
"index": 18,
"text": "hub here in South Lake Union.",
"startTime": "00:00:51,685",
"endTime": "00:00:53,620"
},
{
"index": 19,
"text": "We know that this is an incredible industry,",
"startTime": "00:00:53,620",
"endTime": "00:00:55,722"
},
{
"index": 20,
"text": "one we do not take for advantage -- for -- take,",
"startTime": "00:00:55,722",
"endTime": "00:01:01,495"
},
{
"index": 21,
"text": "What's the word I'm trying to find?",
"startTime": "00:01:01,495",
"endTime": "00:01:03,263"
},
{
"index": 22,
"text": "For granted. It's been a long week so far.",
"startTime": "00:01:03,263",
"endTime": "00:01:07,835"
},
{
"index": 23,
"text": "Creating over 25,000 jobs in the sector here in King County,",
"startTime": "00:01:07,835",
"endTime": "00:01:11,672"
},
{
"index": 24,
"text": "Washington and just do amazing work for global health",
"startTime": "00:01:11,672",
"endTime": "00:01:15,275"
},
{
"index": 25,
"text": "and regional health and the kinds of things",
"startTime": "00:01:15,275",
"endTime": "00:01:17,077"
},
{
"index": 26,
"text": "they're working on.",
"startTime": "00:01:17,077",
"endTime": "00:01:19,012"
},
{
"index": 27,
"text": "You know we get criticized from the other Washington",
"startTime": "00:01:19,012",
"endTime": "00:01:22,449"
},
{
"index": 28,
"text": "for some of our commitments to things like equity and gender",
"startTime": "00:01:22,449",
"endTime": "00:01:27,287"
},
{
"index": 29,
"text": "fairness, and climate change.",
"startTime": "00:01:27,287",
"endTime": "00:01:30,257"
},
{
"index": 30,
"text": "We get attacked for our belief in science and how we are,",
"startTime": "00:01:30,257",
"endTime": "00:01:35,629"
},
{
"index": 31,
"text": "we believe in the benefits of research grants at a time",
"startTime": "00:01:35,629",
"endTime": "00:01:40,400"
},
{
"index": 32,
"text": "where we have to fight for this kind of commitment.",
"startTime": "00:01:40,400",
"endTime": "00:01:43,871"
},
{
"index": 33,
"text": "And I have leaders around me that will talk more about that,",
"startTime": "00:01:43,871",
"endTime": "00:01:46,707"
},
{
"index": 34,
"text": "but the fact is, is housing, jobs,",
"startTime": "00:01:46,707",
"endTime": "00:01:49,776"
},
{
"index": 35,
"text": "and a diversity of small businesses",
"startTime": "00:01:49,776",
"endTime": "00:01:52,079"
},
{
"index": 36,
"text": "are critical to our economic vitality.",
"startTime": "00:01:52,079",
"endTime": "00:01:54,781"
},
{
"index": 37,
"text": "Critical to us being vibrant here in downtown",
"startTime": "00:01:54,781",
"endTime": "00:01:58,819"
},
{
"index": 38,
"text": "and a little north of downtown.",
"startTime": "00:01:58,819",
"endTime": "00:02:00,888"
},
{
"index": 39,
"text": "Downtown runs on people.",
"startTime": "00:02:00,888",
"endTime": "00:02:02,689"
},
{
"index": 40,
"text": "On small businesses, on ideas.",
"startTime": "00:02:02,689",
"endTime": "00:02:05,325"
},
{
"index": 41,
"text": "And our downtown activation plan,",
"startTime": "00:02:05,325",
"endTime": "00:02:08,028"
},
{
"index": 42,
"text": "that I'm very proud of the planning",
"startTime": "00:02:08,028",
"endTime": "00:02:10,597"
},
{
"index": 43,
"text": "that we did,",
"startTime": "00:02:10,597",
"endTime": "00:02:12,466"
},
{
"index": 44,
"text": "but most importantly the implementation as well.",
"startTime": "00:02:12,466",
"endTime": "00:02:14,368"
},
{
"index": 45,
"text": "And I want to thank our Office of Economic Development",
"startTime": "00:02:14,368",
"endTime": "00:02:16,603"
},
{
"index": 46,
"text": "and that regard as well.",
"startTime": "00:02:16,603",
"endTime": "00:02:18,505"
},
{
"index": 47,
"text": "We are making progress again to make downtown safe,",
"startTime": "00:02:18,505",
"endTime": "00:02:21,341"
},
{
"index": 48,
"text": "thriving, vibrant, and critical neighborhood for residents,",
"startTime": "00:02:21,341",
"endTime": "00:02:26,880"
},
{
"index": 49,
"text": "workers and visitors alike.",
"startTime": "00:02:26,880",
"endTime": "00:02:28,582"
},
{
"index": 50,
"text": "So, the first piece of legislation",
"startTime": "00:02:28,582",
"endTime": "00:02:30,450"
},
{
"index": 51,
"text": "we'll be signing this morning",
"startTime": "00:02:30,450",
"endTime": "00:02:32,219"
},
{
"index": 52,
"text": "will help fill vacant storefronts by expanding",
"startTime": "00:02:32,219",
"endTime": "00:02:34,087"
},
{
"index": 53,
"text": "ground level commercial uses.",
"startTime": "00:02:34,087",
"endTime": "00:02:36,423"
},
{
"index": 54,
"text": "Which will in effect boost our economy",
"startTime": "00:02:36,423",
"endTime": "00:02:38,425"
},
{
"index": 55,
"text": "and activate our streets with more people.",
"startTime": "00:02:38,425",
"endTime": "00:02:40,928"
},
{
"index": 56,
"text": "In this particular facility, again in the biotech space,",
"startTime": "00:02:40,928",
"endTime": "00:02:44,798"
},
{
"index": 57,
"text": "we couldn't be more excited.",
"startTime": "00:02:44,798",
"endTime": "00:02:46,834"
},
{
"index": 58,
"text": "This will broaden the pull of tenants for ground floor spaces",
"startTime": "00:02:46,834",
"endTime": "00:02:50,137"
},
{
"index": 59,
"text": "and allowing more entrepreneurs,",
"startTime": "00:02:50,137",
"endTime": "00:02:51,939"
},
{
"index": 60,
"text": "and free thinkers and small business owners",
"startTime": "00:02:51,939",
"endTime": "00:02:54,107"
},
{
"index": 61,
"text": "to call downtown Seattle home.",
"startTime": "00:02:54,107",
"endTime": "00:02:56,710"
},
{
"index": 62,
"text": "And we actively recruit these types of tenants",
"startTime": "00:02:56,710",
"endTime": "00:02:59,346"
},
{
"index": 63,
"text": "and we're excited about what we're seeing.",
"startTime": "00:02:59,346",
"endTime": "00:03:01,448"
},
{
"index": 64,
"text": "New businesses will be allowed on ground floor areas.",
"startTime": "00:03:01,448",
"endTime": "00:03:05,252"
},
{
"index": 65,
"text": "This will include medical offices,",
"startTime": "00:03:05,252",
"endTime": "00:03:07,120"
},
{
"index": 66,
"text": "research and development,",
"startTime": "00:03:07,120",
"endTime": "00:03:09,122"
},
{
"index": 67,
"text": "laboratories, food processing, horticultural operations,",
"startTime": "00:03:09,122",
"endTime": "00:03:12,292"
},
{
"index": 68,
"text": "crafts, manufacturing, art installations and many more.",
"startTime": "00:03:12,292",
"endTime": "00:03:16,530"
},
{
"index": 69,
"text": "And again I want to thank SDCI for their wisdom",
"startTime": "00:03:16,530",
"endTime": "00:03:22,569"
},
{
"index": 70,
"text": "in thinking about how we can think outside of the box.",
"startTime": "00:03:22,569",
"endTime": "00:03:24,872"
},
{
"index": 71,
"text": "And indeed, Chief Operating Officer Marco Lowe",
"startTime": "00:03:24,872",
"endTime": "00:03:28,175"
},
{
"index": 72,
"text": "and his group for the housing work.",
"startTime": "00:03:28,175",
"endTime": "00:03:30,978"
},
{
"index": 73,
"text": "The housing ideas that have come forward in this work.",
"startTime": "00:03:30,978",
"endTime": "00:03:36,183"
},
{
"index": 74,
"text": "The second piece of legislation",
"startTime": "00:03:36,183",
"endTime": "00:03:38,218"
},
{
"index": 75,
"text": "will extend building permits for projects previously vested",
"startTime": "00:03:38,218",
"endTime": "00:03:40,621"
},
{
"index": 76,
"text": "under our old codes.",
"startTime": "00:03:40,621",
"endTime": "00:03:42,489"
},
{
"index": 77,
"text": "And this will in effect allow projects to proceed",
"startTime": "00:03:42,489",
"endTime": "00:03:45,292"
},
{
"index": 78,
"text": "without the time and cost of applying for new permits.",
"startTime": "00:03:45,292",
"endTime": "00:03:48,962"
},
{
"index": 79,
"text": "We think this is a critical strategy,",
"startTime": "00:03:48,962",
"endTime": "00:03:50,697"
},
{
"index": 80,
"text": "which by extending these permits,",
"startTime": "00:03:50,697",
"endTime": "00:03:52,833"
},
{
"index": 81,
"text": "it will prevent hopefully the potential loss",
"startTime": "00:03:52,833",
"endTime": "00:03:55,402"
},
{
"index": 82,
"text": "of 29,000 planned units of housing.",
"startTime": "00:03:55,402",
"endTime": "00:03:59,206"
},
{
"index": 83,
"text": "Including many affordable housing units and housing",
"startTime": "00:03:59,206",
"endTime": "00:04:02,042"
},
{
"index": 84,
"text": "projects planned for downtown.",
"startTime": "00:04:02,042",
"endTime": "00:04:04,044"
},
{
"index": 85,
"text": "And you'll from Chris Persons later.",
"startTime": "00:04:04,044",
"endTime": "00:04:06,446"
},
{
"index": 86,
"text": "And I want to thank Chris and his organization,",
"startTime": "00:04:06,446",
"endTime": "00:04:08,448"
},
{
"index": 87,
"text": "Community Roots, for doing the work that they are doing.",
"startTime": "00:04:08,448",
"endTime": "00:04:12,319"
},
{
"index": 88,
"text": "These affordable housing units and housing",
"startTime": "00:04:12,319",
"endTime": "00:04:14,254"
},
{
"index": 89,
"text": "projects planned for downtown not only house people,",
"startTime": "00:04:14,254",
"endTime": "00:04:16,790"
},
{
"index": 90,
"text": "which is the most important thing,",
"startTime": "00:04:16,790",
"endTime": "00:04:18,625"
},
{
"index": 91,
"text": "they also produce about $13.4 million in sales tax",
"startTime": "00:04:18,625",
"endTime": "00:04:22,362"
},
{
"index": 92,
"text": "and $75 million in MHA fees.",
"startTime": "00:04:22,362",
"endTime": "00:04:25,966"
},
{
"index": 93,
"text": "So it's a win-win scenario",
"startTime": "00:04:25,966",
"endTime": "00:04:27,734"
},
{
"index": 94,
"text": "when we're trying to do this kind of work.",
"startTime": "00:04:27,734",
"endTime": "00:04:29,770"
},
{
"index": 95,
"text": "So we know that in a challenging economic environment right now",
"startTime": "00:04:29,770",
"endTime": "00:04:32,739"
},
{
"index": 96,
"text": "and that's why I'm so pleased to see my department heads here.",
"startTime": "00:04:32,739",
"endTime": "00:04:35,309"
},
{
"index": 97,
"text": "We have a One Seattle approach trying",
"startTime": "00:04:35,309",
"endTime": "00:04:36,944"
},
{
"index": 98,
"text": "to look at our entire system and think, what makes sense",
"startTime": "00:04:36,944",
"endTime": "00:04:40,247"
},
{
"index": 99,
"text": "as we deal with some of our fiscal challenges.",
"startTime": "00:04:40,247",
"endTime": "00:04:43,016"
},
{
"index": 100,
"text": "So, I close by thanking Councilmember Mark Solomon",
"startTime": "00:04:43,016",
"endTime": "00:04:47,087"
},
{
"index": 101,
"text": "for his leadership in sharing the land use committee,",
"startTime": "00:04:47,087",
"endTime": "00:04:50,157"
},
{
"index": 102,
"text": "he's been focused on its expanding economic opportunities",
"startTime": "00:04:50,157",
"endTime": "00:04:53,927"
},
{
"index": 103,
"text": "and creating new housing",
"startTime": "00:04:53,927",
"endTime": "00:04:55,929"
},
{
"index": 104,
"text": "and supporting small businesses throughout the entire city.",
"startTime": "00:04:55,929",
"endTime": "00:04:58,031"
},
{
"index": 105,
"text": "And of course he's been with the city for a while,",
"startTime": "00:04:58,031",
"endTime": "00:05:00,167"
},
{
"index": 106,
"text": "making sure, in the public safety realm,",
"startTime": "00:05:00,167",
"endTime": "00:05:03,337"
},
{
"index": 107,
"text": "things are going along the way,",
"startTime": "00:05:03,337",
"endTime": "00:05:05,239"
},
{
"index": 108,
"text": "he wants to see them as a crime prevention specialist,",
"startTime": "00:05:05,239",
"endTime": "00:05:08,242"
},
{
"index": 109,
"text": "a subject matter expert.",
"startTime": "00:05:08,242",
"endTime": "00:05:10,010"
},
{
"index": 110,
"text": "And now he uses his expertise in other areas.",
"startTime": "00:05:10,010",
"endTime": "00:05:11,645"
},
{
"index": 111,
"text": "And so as land use chair,",
"startTime": "00:05:11,645",
"endTime": "00:05:14,014"
},
{
"index": 112,
"text": "council member Solomon has been strong work",
"startTime": "00:05:14,014",
"endTime": "00:05:15,849"
},
{
"index": 113,
"text": "to get this legislation over the finish line",
"startTime": "00:05:15,849",
"endTime": "00:05:18,018"
},
{
"index": 114,
"text": "and we look forward to continuing our with him.",
"startTime": "00:05:18,018",
"endTime": "00:05:20,220"
},
{
"index": 115,
"text": "And I present to you Councilmember Mark Solomon.",
"startTime": "00:05:20,220",
"endTime": "00:05:22,923"
},
{
"index": 116,
"text": "-Thank you, Mayor Harrell.",
"startTime": "00:05:22,923",
"endTime": "00:05:24,525"
},
{
"index": 117,
"text": "[ Applause ]",
"startTime": "00:05:24,525",
"endTime": "00:05:26,260"
},
{
"index": 118,
"text": "Good morning, everyone. Thank you for being here.",
"startTime": "00:05:28,428",
"endTime": "00:05:30,898"
},
{
"index": 119,
"text": "I'm happy to be here with you",
"startTime": "00:05:30,898",
"endTime": "00:05:32,866"
},
{
"index": 120,
"text": "today to celebrate this new piece of legislation.",
"startTime": "00:05:32,866",
"endTime": "00:05:35,702"
},
{
"index": 121,
"text": "Which will help revitalize key areas of downtown Seattle.",
"startTime": "00:05:35,702",
"endTime": "00:05:40,307"
},
{
"index": 122,
"text": "Today we're introducing new law",
"startTime": "00:05:40,307",
"endTime": "00:05:42,342"
},
{
"index": 123,
"text": "that allows for more flexible uses of ground floor spaces",
"startTime": "00:05:42,342",
"endTime": "00:05:44,945"
},
{
"index": 124,
"text": "in key areas of our city's court.",
"startTime": "00:05:44,945",
"endTime": "00:05:47,181"
},
{
"index": 125,
"text": "And this legislation opens the door for a broader range",
"startTime": "00:05:47,181",
"endTime": "00:05:49,883"
},
{
"index": 126,
"text": "of vital police defining businesses",
"startTime": "00:05:49,883",
"endTime": "00:05:53,353"
},
{
"index": 127,
"text": "and creative commercial designed.",
"startTime": "00:05:53,353",
"endTime": "00:05:55,689"
},
{
"index": 128,
"text": "Making it easier for entrepreneurs,",
"startTime": "00:05:55,689",
"endTime": "00:05:57,558"
},
{
"index": 129,
"text": "scientific research groups and local vendors",
"startTime": "00:05:57,558",
"endTime": "00:06:00,227"
},
{
"index": 130,
"text": "to bring fresh ideas to our downtown streets.",
"startTime": "00:06:00,227",
"endTime": "00:06:04,164"
},
{
"index": 131,
"text": "And as we continue recovering from the impacts COVID-19,",
"startTime": "00:06:04,164",
"endTime": "00:06:08,735"
},
{
"index": 132,
"text": "we know that reestablishing the character",
"startTime": "00:06:08,735",
"endTime": "00:06:10,804"
},
{
"index": 133,
"text": "of our changing downtown, is imperative.",
"startTime": "00:06:10,804",
"endTime": "00:06:14,508"
},
{
"index": 134,
"text": "What people want and need from our city spaces is evolving.",
"startTime": "00:06:14,508",
"endTime": "00:06:18,612"
},
{
"index": 135,
"text": "And this law responds directly to that shift.",
"startTime": "00:06:18,612",
"endTime": "00:06:21,415"
},
{
"index": 136,
"text": "In a powers property owners",
"startTime": "00:06:21,415",
"endTime": "00:06:23,217"
},
{
"index": 137,
"text": "and small business owners with more freedom",
"startTime": "00:06:23,217",
"endTime": "00:06:25,385"
},
{
"index": 138,
"text": "to shape their spaces in ways that serve the community.",
"startTime": "00:06:25,385",
"endTime": "00:06:30,157"
},
{
"index": 139,
"text": "Whether that means a pop-up shop, or a small restaurant,",
"startTime": "00:06:30,157",
"endTime": "00:06:33,627"
},
{
"index": 140,
"text": "or a ground floor",
"startTime": "00:06:33,627",
"endTime": "00:06:35,462"
},
{
"index": 141,
"text": "which contributes to the research and development.",
"startTime": "00:06:35,462",
"endTime": "00:06:37,998"
},
{
"index": 142,
"text": "That will alter how we interact with our world.",
"startTime": "00:06:37,998",
"endTime": "00:06:41,034"
},
{
"index": 143,
"text": "Or even something we haven't imagined yet.",
"startTime": "00:06:41,034",
"endTime": "00:06:44,838"
},
{
"index": 144,
"text": "Very critically I want to thank many stakeholders",
"startTime": "00:06:44,838",
"endTime": "00:06:46,907"
},
{
"index": 145,
"text": "who helped shaped this policy and the SDCI staff",
"startTime": "00:06:46,907",
"endTime": "00:06:51,011"
},
{
"index": 146,
"text": "and the Mayor's staff.",
"startTime": "00:06:51,011",
"endTime": "00:06:52,813"
},
{
"index": 147,
"text": "Who worked extremely hard,",
"startTime": "00:06:52,813",
"endTime": "00:06:54,748"
},
{
"index": 148,
"text": "turning stakeholder feedback in a new legislation",
"startTime": "00:06:54,748",
"endTime": "00:06:57,017"
},
{
"index": 149,
"text": "to revitalize our downtown.",
"startTime": "00:06:57,017",
"endTime": "00:06:58,952"
},
{
"index": 150,
"text": "I also got to give a shout out to my policy guy,",
"startTime": "00:06:58,952",
"endTime": "00:07:01,522"
},
{
"index": 151,
"text": "Thaddeus Gregory.",
"startTime": "00:07:01,522",
"endTime": "00:07:03,524"
},
{
"index": 152,
"text": "Who did a heavy, a lot of heavy lifting on this himself.",
"startTime": "00:07:03,524",
"endTime": "00:07:05,893"
},
{
"index": 153,
"text": "I'm not going to let the fact that he worked on",
"startTime": "00:07:05,893",
"endTime": "00:07:08,996"
},
{
"index": 154,
"text": "this go unnoticed.",
"startTime": "00:07:08,996",
"endTime": "00:07:10,531"
},
{
"index": 155,
"text": "So, thank you.",
"startTime": "00:07:10,531",
"endTime": "00:07:13,967"
},
{
"index": 156,
"text": "Together we're building a vibrant downtown.",
"startTime": "00:07:13,967",
"endTime": "00:07:17,137"
},
{
"index": 157,
"text": "It's not just recovering, but finding new vibrant life.",
"startTime": "00:07:17,137",
"endTime": "00:07:20,974"
},
{
"index": 158,
"text": "And paving the way for a stronger, more resilient future.",
"startTime": "00:07:20,974",
"endTime": "00:07:24,578"
},
{
"index": 159,
"text": "So, thank you.",
"startTime": "00:07:24,578",
"endTime": "00:07:26,213"
},
{
"index": 160,
"text": "-Thank you Councilmember Solomon.",
"startTime": "00:07:26,213",
"endTime": "00:07:27,681"
},
{
"index": 161,
"text": "[ Applause ]",
"startTime": "00:07:27,681",
"endTime": "00:07:29,516"
},
{
"index": 162,
"text": "And I also, Nathan I didn't see you standing there,",
"startTime": "00:07:32,486",
"endTime": "00:07:35,689"
},
{
"index": 163,
"text": "I want to recognize Nathan Torgelson,",
"startTime": "00:07:35,689",
"endTime": "00:07:37,391"
},
{
"index": 164,
"text": "who is the SDCI Director,",
"startTime": "00:07:37,391",
"endTime": "00:07:39,426"
},
{
"index": 165,
"text": "thank you for your leadership and your groups leadership.",
"startTime": "00:07:39,426",
"endTime": "00:07:41,929"
},
{
"index": 166,
"text": "Next you'll hear from SungYang,",
"startTime": "00:07:41,929",
"endTime": "00:07:43,530"
},
{
"index": 167,
"text": "I think many of you know who he is,",
"startTime": "00:07:43,530",
"endTime": "00:07:45,399"
},
{
"index": 168,
"text": "Chair of the Downtown Seattle Association Board",
"startTime": "00:07:45,399",
"endTime": "00:07:47,534"
},
{
"index": 169,
"text": "and the Principal at Pacific Public Affairs.",
"startTime": "00:07:47,534",
"endTime": "00:07:50,404"
},
{
"index": 170,
"text": "And has over two decades of experience",
"startTime": "00:07:50,404",
"endTime": "00:07:53,807"
},
{
"index": 171,
"text": "managing public policy. Sung every time I introduce you,",
"startTime": "00:07:53,807",
"endTime": "00:07:57,678"
},
{
"index": 172,
"text": "you just omit the part that you work for the City of Seattle,",
"startTime": "00:07:57,678",
"endTime": "00:07:59,847"
},
{
"index": 173,
"text": "I don't know what your slow plan is on this here.",
"startTime": "00:07:59,847",
"endTime": "00:08:02,349"
},
{
"index": 174,
"text": "As where I met you.",
"startTime": "00:08:02,349",
"endTime": "00:08:04,351"
},
{
"index": 175,
"text": "A former public servant Sung has been a champion for arts",
"startTime": "00:08:04,351",
"endTime": "00:08:06,887"
},
{
"index": 176,
"text": "and economic development in our downtown neighborhoods",
"startTime": "00:08:06,887",
"endTime": "00:08:09,389"
},
{
"index": 177,
"text": "and thank you for your consistent",
"startTime": "00:08:09,389",
"endTime": "00:08:11,225"
},
{
"index": 178,
"text": "and strong leadership.",
"startTime": "00:08:11,225",
"endTime": "00:08:12,392"
},
{
"index": 179,
"text": "Sung Yang. -Thank you, Mayor.",
"startTime": "00:08:12,392",
"endTime": "00:08:13,994"
},
{
"index": 180,
"text": "[ Applause ]",
"startTime": "00:08:13,994",
"endTime": "00:08:16,263"
},
{
"index": 181,
"text": "Good morning, everybody.",
"startTime": "00:08:16,263",
"endTime": "00:08:18,165"
},
{
"index": 182,
"text": "I do want to start by thanking Mayor Harrell",
"startTime": "00:08:18,165",
"endTime": "00:08:21,268"
},
{
"index": 183,
"text": "for this legislation.",
"startTime": "00:08:21,268",
"endTime": "00:08:23,103"
},
{
"index": 184,
"text": "And also for really his unwavering dedication,",
"startTime": "00:08:23,103",
"endTime": "00:08:27,541"
},
{
"index": 185,
"text": "commitment and hard work.",
"startTime": "00:08:27,541",
"endTime": "00:08:29,543"
},
{
"index": 186,
"text": "Nobody works harder at making downtown thrive",
"startTime": "00:08:29,543",
"endTime": "00:08:32,212"
},
{
"index": 187,
"text": "than Mayor Harrell and I want to truly thank him for that.",
"startTime": "00:08:32,212",
"endTime": "00:08:35,949"
},
{
"index": 188,
"text": "I also want to thank Councilmember Solomon",
"startTime": "00:08:35,949",
"endTime": "00:08:37,851"
},
{
"index": 189,
"text": "for spearheading this effort at the council",
"startTime": "00:08:37,851",
"endTime": "00:08:39,720"
},
{
"index": 190,
"text": "and for rallying his colleagues around its approval.",
"startTime": "00:08:39,720",
"endTime": "00:08:42,489"
},
{
"index": 191,
"text": "And everyone else here in this room",
"startTime": "00:08:42,489",
"endTime": "00:08:44,224"
},
{
"index": 192,
"text": "that brought us to this really historic occasion",
"startTime": "00:08:44,224",
"endTime": "00:08:47,327"
},
{
"index": 193,
"text": "of the passage of these two pieces of legislation.",
"startTime": "00:08:47,327",
"endTime": "00:08:50,364"
},
{
"index": 194,
"text": "Downtown's revitalization,",
"startTime": "00:08:50,364",
"endTime": "00:08:52,399"
},
{
"index": 195,
"text": "continued revitalization is critical for the entire city.",
"startTime": "00:08:52,399",
"endTime": "00:08:55,969"
},
{
"index": 196,
"text": "As the regions economic engine",
"startTime": "00:08:55,969",
"endTime": "00:08:57,671"
},
{
"index": 197,
"text": "what happens in the core of Seattle,",
"startTime": "00:08:57,671",
"endTime": "00:09:00,073"
},
{
"index": 198,
"text": "radiates far beyond its footprint.",
"startTime": "00:09:00,073",
"endTime": "00:09:02,576"
},
{
"index": 199,
"text": "As you walk through the heart of downtown",
"startTime": "00:09:02,576",
"endTime": "00:09:04,578"
},
{
"index": 200,
"text": "you will see foot traffic reminiscent",
"startTime": "00:09:04,578",
"endTime": "00:09:07,047"
},
{
"index": 201,
"text": "of pre-pandemic times.",
"startTime": "00:09:07,047",
"endTime": "00:09:09,116"
},
{
"index": 202,
"text": "And many of our public spaces full of activity and vibrancy.",
"startTime": "00:09:09,116",
"endTime": "00:09:13,453"
},
{
"index": 203,
"text": "But far too many of our storefronts remain empty",
"startTime": "00:09:13,453",
"endTime": "00:09:16,523"
},
{
"index": 204,
"text": "and that doesn't send a message",
"startTime": "00:09:16,523",
"endTime": "00:09:18,592"
},
{
"index": 205,
"text": "that matches with the trajectory and reality",
"startTime": "00:09:18,592",
"endTime": "00:09:21,695"
},
{
"index": 206,
"text": "of downtown's upper trajectory.",
"startTime": "00:09:21,695",
"endTime": "00:09:23,764"
},
{
"index": 207,
"text": "This legislation will help fill vacant ground floor spaces",
"startTime": "00:09:23,764",
"endTime": "00:09:27,434"
},
{
"index": 208,
"text": "in downtown neighborhoods.",
"startTime": "00:09:27,434",
"endTime": "00:09:29,036"
},
{
"index": 209,
"text": "Filling gaps in our urban fabric,",
"startTime": "00:09:29,036",
"endTime": "00:09:30,804"
},
{
"index": 210,
"text": "producing even more activity on our streets.",
"startTime": "00:09:30,804",
"endTime": "00:09:33,340"
},
{
"index": 211,
"text": "And driving our revitalization efforts forward.",
"startTime": "00:09:33,340",
"endTime": "00:09:36,977"
},
{
"index": 212,
"text": "Downtown needs to have a diversity of businesses",
"startTime": "00:09:36,977",
"endTime": "00:09:40,214"
},
{
"index": 213,
"text": "to serve its diverse population of residents,",
"startTime": "00:09:40,214",
"endTime": "00:09:43,851"
},
{
"index": 214,
"text": "workers and visitors.",
"startTime": "00:09:43,851",
"endTime": "00:09:45,786"
},
{
"index": 215,
"text": "By allowing new business types to be located,",
"startTime": "00:09:45,786",
"endTime": "00:09:49,723"
},
{
"index": 216,
"text": "here, we are also creating opportunities",
"startTime": "00:09:49,723",
"endTime": "00:09:52,759"
},
{
"index": 217,
"text": "for entrepreneurs to call downtown home.",
"startTime": "00:09:52,759",
"endTime": "00:09:56,096"
},
{
"index": 218,
"text": "And setting up shop,",
"startTime": "00:09:56,096",
"endTime": "00:09:57,898"
},
{
"index": 219,
"text": "downtown should feel like an attainable goal.",
"startTime": "00:09:57,898",
"endTime": "00:10:01,168"
},
{
"index": 220,
"text": "Here today at a new state of the art life sciences facility",
"startTime": "00:10:01,168",
"endTime": "00:10:05,606"
},
{
"index": 221,
"text": "we are recognizing how our downtown is also a hub",
"startTime": "00:10:05,606",
"endTime": "00:10:09,443"
},
{
"index": 222,
"text": "for research and development.",
"startTime": "00:10:09,443",
"endTime": "00:10:11,445"
},
{
"index": 223,
"text": "A critical industry in our city,",
"startTime": "00:10:11,445",
"endTime": "00:10:14,081"
},
{
"index": 224,
"text": "that can now expand to ground floor spaces",
"startTime": "00:10:14,081",
"endTime": "00:10:16,717"
},
{
"index": 225,
"text": "under this legislation.",
"startTime": "00:10:16,717",
"endTime": "00:10:19,119"
},
{
"index": 226,
"text": "Downtown has made a tremendous comeback over the last few years",
"startTime": "00:10:19,119",
"endTime": "00:10:23,690"
},
{
"index": 227,
"text": "under the Mayor's activation plan, Mayor's leadership,",
"startTime": "00:10:23,690",
"endTime": "00:10:28,395"
},
{
"index": 228,
"text": "the work of the council",
"startTime": "00:10:28,395",
"endTime": "00:10:30,130"
},
{
"index": 229,
"text": "and of the Downtown Seattle Association.",
"startTime": "00:10:30,130",
"endTime": "00:10:32,799"
},
{
"index": 230,
"text": "Data from Downtown Seattle Association downtown's",
"startTime": "00:10:32,799",
"endTime": "00:10:36,537"
},
{
"index": 231,
"text": "revitalization dashboard shows that in March",
"startTime": "00:10:36,537",
"endTime": "00:10:40,307"
},
{
"index": 232,
"text": "we saw a post-pandemic high of nearly 101,000 workers downtown",
"startTime": "00:10:40,307",
"endTime": "00:10:47,447"
},
{
"index": 233,
"text": "on an average per day.",
"startTime": "00:10:47,447",
"endTime": "00:10:49,783"
},
{
"index": 234,
"text": "In the third month of Amazon's return to five days a week",
"startTime": "00:10:49,783",
"endTime": "00:10:52,986"
},
{
"index": 235,
"text": "in the office, the South Lake Union,",
"startTime": "00:10:52,986",
"endTime": "00:10:55,622"
},
{
"index": 236,
"text": "in the Denny Regrade neighborhood,",
"startTime": "00:10:55,622",
"endTime": "00:10:57,491"
},
{
"index": 237,
"text": "saw daily worker foot traffic of nearly 48,000.",
"startTime": "00:10:57,491",
"endTime": "00:11:03,030"
},
{
"index": 238,
"text": "Numbers that are trending closer to pre-pandemic conditions.",
"startTime": "00:11:03,030",
"endTime": "00:11:07,801"
},
{
"index": 239,
"text": "And in a significant, significant development,",
"startTime": "00:11:07,801",
"endTime": "00:11:10,971"
},
{
"index": 240,
"text": "local visitors and these are people",
"startTime": "00:11:10,971",
"endTime": "00:11:12,906"
},
{
"index": 241,
"text": "who live within 10 miles of downtown",
"startTime": "00:11:12,906",
"endTime": "00:11:15,209"
},
{
"index": 242,
"text": "are coming to the center city at an increasing rate.",
"startTime": "00:11:15,209",
"endTime": "00:11:18,846"
},
{
"index": 243,
"text": "In fact,",
"startTime": "00:11:18,846",
"endTime": "00:11:20,614"
},
{
"index": 244,
"text": "in March 2025 the number of local visitors",
"startTime": "00:11:20,614",
"endTime": "00:11:24,618"
},
{
"index": 245,
"text": "to downtown surpassed pre-pandemic levels.",
"startTime": "00:11:24,618",
"endTime": "00:11:28,622"
},
{
"index": 246,
"text": "So working with the city and our partners,",
"startTime": "00:11:28,622",
"endTime": "00:11:31,191"
},
{
"index": 247,
"text": "we will continue this momentum",
"startTime": "00:11:31,191",
"endTime": "00:11:33,160"
},
{
"index": 248,
"text": "and we're excited to welcome new business to downtown.",
"startTime": "00:11:33,160",
"endTime": "00:11:35,696"
},
{
"index": 249,
"text": "Thank you very much.",
"startTime": "00:11:35,696",
"endTime": "00:11:36,930"
},
{
"index": 250,
"text": "-Thank you, Sung.",
"startTime": "00:11:36,930",
"endTime": "00:11:38,198"
},
{
"index": 251,
"text": "[ Applause ]",
"startTime": "00:11:38,198",
"endTime": "00:11:40,067"
},
{
"index": 252,
"text": "Thank you, Sung.",
"startTime": "00:11:40,067",
"endTime": "00:11:41,401"
},
{
"index": 253,
"text": "Next you're going to hear from Alex Aigner,",
"startTime": "00:11:41,401",
"endTime": "00:11:43,237"
},
{
"index": 254,
"text": "who is the Executive Vice President of Development",
"startTime": "00:11:43,237",
"endTime": "00:11:45,772"
},
{
"index": 255,
"text": "at Lincoln Property Company.",
"startTime": "00:11:45,772",
"endTime": "00:11:47,774"
},
{
"index": 256,
"text": "Overseeing the firms redevelopment projects",
"startTime": "00:11:47,774",
"endTime": "00:11:49,843"
},
{
"index": 257,
"text": "throughout Washington and Oregon including right here at 225th.",
"startTime": "00:11:49,843",
"endTime": "00:11:54,548"
},
{
"index": 258,
"text": "And Lincoln's development pipeline",
"startTime": "00:11:54,548",
"endTime": "00:11:56,183"
},
{
"index": 259,
"text": "in the pacific northwest",
"startTime": "00:11:56,183",
"endTime": "00:11:57,918"
},
{
"index": 260,
"text": "includes over 1,500 multi-family units.",
"startTime": "00:11:57,918",
"endTime": "00:12:00,487"
},
{
"index": 261,
"text": "And more than 500,000 square feet of commercial,",
"startTime": "00:12:00,487",
"endTime": "00:12:03,924"
},
{
"index": 262,
"text": "retail and life science developments.",
"startTime": "00:12:03,924",
"endTime": "00:12:06,193"
},
{
"index": 263,
"text": "This is the, Lincoln's exactly the kind of company",
"startTime": "00:12:06,193",
"endTime": "00:12:08,762"
},
{
"index": 264,
"text": "we recruit and we want to stay here,",
"startTime": "00:12:08,762",
"endTime": "00:12:10,797"
},
{
"index": 265,
"text": "because there is such a vital,",
"startTime": "00:12:10,797",
"endTime": "00:12:12,533"
},
{
"index": 266,
"text": "they play such a vital role in our success.",
"startTime": "00:12:12,533",
"endTime": "00:12:14,201"
},
{
"index": 267,
"text": "Alex, please take the mic.",
"startTime": "00:12:14,201",
"endTime": "00:12:15,769"
},
{
"index": 268,
"text": "-Thank you. Good morning.",
"startTime": "00:12:15,769",
"endTime": "00:12:18,172"
},
{
"index": 269,
"text": "Thank you Mayor Harrell and Councilmember Solomon.",
"startTime": "00:12:18,172",
"endTime": "00:12:21,408"
},
{
"index": 270,
"text": "Thank you for everyone involved at the city",
"startTime": "00:12:21,408",
"endTime": "00:12:23,544"
},
{
"index": 271,
"text": "for all your hard work to push this legislation through.",
"startTime": "00:12:23,544",
"endTime": "00:12:26,413"
},
{
"index": 272,
"text": "Thank you to Ian Morrison,",
"startTime": "00:12:26,413",
"endTime": "00:12:28,148"
},
{
"index": 273,
"text": "our Land Use Council at McCullough Hill Leary",
"startTime": "00:12:28,148",
"endTime": "00:12:31,151"
},
{
"index": 274,
"text": "for all the hard work that you've done as well.",
"startTime": "00:12:31,151",
"endTime": "00:12:33,320"
},
{
"index": 275,
"text": "My name is Alex Aigner,",
"startTime": "00:12:33,320",
"endTime": "00:12:35,322"
},
{
"index": 276,
"text": "I am an Executive Vice President at Lincoln Property Company.",
"startTime": "00:12:35,322",
"endTime": "00:12:38,659"
},
{
"index": 277,
"text": "And with our partners,",
"startTime": "00:12:38,659",
"endTime": "00:12:40,260"
},
{
"index": 278,
"text": "Intercontinental Real Estate Corporation,",
"startTime": "00:12:40,260",
"endTime": "00:12:42,729"
},
{
"index": 279,
"text": "we developed, own and manage this life science building.",
"startTime": "00:12:42,729",
"endTime": "00:12:47,134"
},
{
"index": 280,
"text": "We want to express our sincere appreciation to the Mayor",
"startTime": "00:12:47,134",
"endTime": "00:12:51,071"
},
{
"index": 281,
"text": "and to Council Solomon for your leadership",
"startTime": "00:12:51,071",
"endTime": "00:12:52,973"
},
{
"index": 282,
"text": "in passing this important legislation.",
"startTime": "00:12:52,973",
"endTime": "00:12:55,843"
},
{
"index": 283,
"text": "By expanding the types of street level uses permitted",
"startTime": "00:12:55,843",
"endTime": "00:12:59,046"
},
{
"index": 284,
"text": "in our buildings,",
"startTime": "00:12:59,046",
"endTime": "00:13:00,981"
},
{
"index": 285,
"text": "you're helping unlock opportunities for innovation,",
"startTime": "00:13:00,981",
"endTime": "00:13:03,550"
},
{
"index": 286,
"text": "activation and connection in key parts of our city.",
"startTime": "00:13:03,550",
"endTime": "00:13:07,588"
},
{
"index": 287,
"text": "This is a kind of regulatory flexibility,",
"startTime": "00:13:07,588",
"endTime": "00:13:10,791"
},
{
"index": 288,
"text": "it's exactly what we need right now to bring new life",
"startTime": "00:13:10,791",
"endTime": "00:13:14,828"
},
{
"index": 289,
"text": "into our ground floor spaces. These uses attract foot traffic,",
"startTime": "00:13:14,828",
"endTime": "00:13:18,599"
},
{
"index": 290,
"text": "create jobs and contribute to a more engaging",
"startTime": "00:13:18,599",
"endTime": "00:13:22,703"
},
{
"index": 291,
"text": "and walkable urban experience.",
"startTime": "00:13:22,703",
"endTime": "00:13:24,938"
},
{
"index": 292,
"text": "At 225th we're matching the city's",
"startTime": "00:13:24,938",
"endTime": "00:13:27,574"
},
{
"index": 293,
"text": "forward thinking policy by reimagining",
"startTime": "00:13:27,574",
"endTime": "00:13:30,310"
},
{
"index": 294,
"text": "how space can be used.",
"startTime": "00:13:30,310",
"endTime": "00:13:32,145"
},
{
"index": 295,
"text": "So we've launched CoLabs,",
"startTime": "00:13:32,145",
"endTime": "00:13:33,647"
},
{
"index": 296,
"text": "a biotech incubator designed",
"startTime": "00:13:33,647",
"endTime": "00:13:36,016"
},
{
"index": 297,
"text": "to support early stage life science companies in Seattle.",
"startTime": "00:13:36,016",
"endTime": "00:13:39,786"
},
{
"index": 298,
"text": "Through CoLabs we provide flexible lab space",
"startTime": "00:13:39,786",
"endTime": "00:13:43,056"
},
{
"index": 299,
"text": "and operational support to help startups grow,",
"startTime": "00:13:43,056",
"endTime": "00:13:46,460"
},
{
"index": 300,
"text": "attract investment and scale.",
"startTime": "00:13:46,460",
"endTime": "00:13:49,096"
},
{
"index": 301,
"text": "Our goal is to ensure the next generation of biotech companies,",
"startTime": "00:13:49,096",
"endTime": "00:13:53,567"
},
{
"index": 302,
"text": "not only start in Seattle,",
"startTime": "00:13:53,567",
"endTime": "00:13:55,502"
},
{
"index": 303,
"text": "but grow here and thrive here.",
"startTime": "00:13:55,502",
"endTime": "00:13:57,938"
},
{
"index": 304,
"text": "And help position Seattle as a key hub in the nation",
"startTime": "00:13:57,938",
"endTime": "00:14:01,108"
},
{
"index": 305,
"text": "for medical research.",
"startTime": "00:14:01,108",
"endTime": "00:14:02,910"
},
{
"index": 306,
"text": "Thank you again Mayor and Councilman",
"startTime": "00:14:02,910",
"endTime": "00:14:05,179"
},
{
"index": 307,
"text": "for taking this bold and thoughtful action.",
"startTime": "00:14:05,179",
"endTime": "00:14:07,981"
},
{
"index": 308,
"text": "This legislation is a meaningful step to a more vibrant,",
"startTime": "00:14:07,981",
"endTime": "00:14:12,419"
},
{
"index": 309,
"text": "resilient and inclusive downtown.",
"startTime": "00:14:12,419",
"endTime": "00:14:14,621"
},
{
"index": 310,
"text": "And Lincoln Property Company and Intercontinental",
"startTime": "00:14:14,621",
"endTime": "00:14:17,090"
},
{
"index": 311,
"text": "are proud to be a part of it.",
"startTime": "00:14:17,090",
"endTime": "00:14:18,659"
},
{
"index": 312,
"text": "-Thank you, Alex.",
"startTime": "00:14:18,659",
"endTime": "00:14:20,127"
},
{
"index": 313,
"text": "[ Applause ]",
"startTime": "00:14:20,127",
"endTime": "00:14:21,828"
},
{
"index": 314,
"text": "Next our closer.",
"startTime": "00:14:25,365",
"endTime": "00:14:26,834"
},
{
"index": 315,
"text": "Do you remember the show, this is bad, this here's 222,",
"startTime": "00:14:29,069",
"endTime": "00:14:32,406"
},
{
"index": 316,
"text": "do you remember the show Room 222?",
"startTime": "00:14:32,406",
"endTime": "00:14:34,408"
},
{
"index": 317,
"text": "Do any of you remember that?",
"startTime": "00:14:34,408",
"endTime": "00:14:35,409"
},
{
"index": 318,
"text": "-I do.",
"startTime": "00:14:35,409",
"endTime": "00:14:37,377"
},
{
"index": 319,
"text": "-You are, you and I are the only ones to remember that.",
"startTime": "00:14:37,377",
"endTime": "00:14:39,346"
},
{
"index": 320,
"text": "You remember it too, okay, it was a popular show,",
"startTime": "00:14:39,346",
"endTime": "00:14:41,582"
},
{
"index": 321,
"text": "I was going to try to weave that into the room.",
"startTime": "00:14:41,582",
"endTime": "00:14:44,117"
},
{
"index": 322,
"text": "Okay, so that's what I first thought of",
"startTime": "00:14:44,117",
"endTime": "00:14:45,385"
},
{
"index": 323,
"text": "when I saw that address.",
"startTime": "00:14:45,385",
"endTime": "00:14:46,653"
},
{
"index": 324,
"text": "-I was very young.",
"startTime": "00:14:46,653",
"endTime": "00:14:48,522"
},
{
"index": 325,
"text": "-You were very, I was in college, no I'm just kidding.",
"startTime": "00:14:48,522",
"endTime": "00:14:51,925"
},
{
"index": 326,
"text": "So as many of you know because the great work",
"startTime": "00:14:51,925",
"endTime": "00:14:54,461"
},
{
"index": 327,
"text": "that Christopher and his organizations done,",
"startTime": "00:14:54,461",
"endTime": "00:14:56,296"
},
{
"index": 328,
"text": "he's the CEO of Community Roots Housing since 2007",
"startTime": "00:14:56,296",
"endTime": "00:14:59,766"
},
{
"index": 329,
"text": "and he's led the organization through significant growth.",
"startTime": "00:14:59,766",
"endTime": "00:15:02,569"
},
{
"index": 330,
"text": "And many award winning housing projects and.",
"startTime": "00:15:02,569",
"endTime": "00:15:05,472"
},
{
"index": 331,
"text": "We know he'll be retiring later this year",
"startTime": "00:15:05,472",
"endTime": "00:15:07,641"
},
{
"index": 332,
"text": "and we want to thank you Christopher,",
"startTime": "00:15:07,641",
"endTime": "00:15:09,409"
},
{
"index": 333,
"text": "you're just untiring energy and commitment",
"startTime": "00:15:09,409",
"endTime": "00:15:11,778"
},
{
"index": 334,
"text": "to affordable housing",
"startTime": "00:15:11,778",
"endTime": "00:15:13,614"
},
{
"index": 335,
"text": "and a strong partnership with the city of Seattle.",
"startTime": "00:15:13,614",
"endTime": "00:15:15,649"
},
{
"index": 336,
"text": "And all the work you've done to address housing affordability.",
"startTime": "00:15:15,649",
"endTime": "00:15:18,285"
},
{
"index": 337,
"text": "So closer, Chris, take us home.",
"startTime": "00:15:18,285",
"endTime": "00:15:20,654"
},
{
"index": 338,
"text": "Alright. -Thank you, Mayor.",
"startTime": "00:15:20,654",
"endTime": "00:15:21,922"
},
{
"index": 339,
"text": "[ Applause ]",
"startTime": "00:15:21,922",
"endTime": "00:15:23,824"
},
{
"index": 340,
"text": "Thank you, all.",
"startTime": "00:15:26,326",
"endTime": "00:15:27,427"
},
{
"index": 341,
"text": "Again, my names is Chris Persons,",
"startTime": "00:15:27,427",
"endTime": "00:15:29,062"
},
{
"index": 342,
"text": "I'm the CEO of Community Roots Housing.",
"startTime": "00:15:29,062",
"endTime": "00:15:31,632"
},
{
"index": 343,
"text": "We own and operate 46 properties in Seattle",
"startTime": "00:15:31,632",
"endTime": "00:15:36,303"
},
{
"index": 344,
"text": "comprising almost 2,000 affordable apartments.",
"startTime": "00:15:36,303",
"endTime": "00:15:40,374"
},
{
"index": 345,
"text": "We also have three new projects under construction",
"startTime": "00:15:40,374",
"endTime": "00:15:44,077"
},
{
"index": 346,
"text": "today comprising nearly 400 more.",
"startTime": "00:15:44,077",
"endTime": "00:15:47,481"
},
{
"index": 347,
"text": "And our future development pipeline includes",
"startTime": "00:15:47,481",
"endTime": "00:15:50,417"
},
{
"index": 348,
"text": "more than 700 additional homes.",
"startTime": "00:15:50,417",
"endTime": "00:15:53,253"
},
{
"index": 349,
"text": "Community Roots Housing has been developing",
"startTime": "00:15:53,253",
"endTime": "00:15:55,756"
},
{
"index": 350,
"text": "and operating affordable multi-family properties",
"startTime": "00:15:55,756",
"endTime": "00:15:58,225"
},
{
"index": 351,
"text": "in Seattle for 50 years.",
"startTime": "00:15:58,225",
"endTime": "00:16:00,561"
},
{
"index": 352,
"text": "And every year it gets harder and more expensive.",
"startTime": "00:16:00,561",
"endTime": "00:16:05,232"
},
{
"index": 353,
"text": "I tell, if you've got IT professionals that work for you,",
"startTime": "00:16:05,232",
"endTime": "00:16:09,169"
},
{
"index": 354,
"text": "or an IT team this might resonate with you.",
"startTime": "00:16:09,169",
"endTime": "00:16:12,372"
},
{
"index": 355,
"text": "I tell my IT director, who I love, I tell him, all the time,",
"startTime": "00:16:12,372",
"endTime": "00:16:17,845"
},
{
"index": 356,
"text": "just make it easier for me to do work.",
"startTime": "00:16:17,845",
"endTime": "00:16:21,548"
},
{
"index": 357,
"text": "All I want to do is work and get my job done.",
"startTime": "00:16:21,548",
"endTime": "00:16:26,053"
},
{
"index": 358,
"text": "As a prominent affordable housing developer,",
"startTime": "00:16:26,053",
"endTime": "00:16:29,289"
},
{
"index": 359,
"text": "all I want to do is build more affordable housing.",
"startTime": "00:16:29,289",
"endTime": "00:16:32,526"
},
{
"index": 360,
"text": "Make it easier for us to do our work.",
"startTime": "00:16:32,526",
"endTime": "00:16:35,062"
},
{
"index": 361,
"text": "And that's what this legislation does.",
"startTime": "00:16:35,062",
"endTime": "00:16:37,865"
},
{
"index": 362,
"text": "Thank you to City Council and Mayor Harrell",
"startTime": "00:16:37,865",
"endTime": "00:16:41,401"
},
{
"index": 363,
"text": "for making this no-nonsense legislation happen.",
"startTime": "00:16:41,401",
"endTime": "00:16:45,606"
},
{
"index": 364,
"text": "By allowing Community Roots projects",
"startTime": "00:16:45,606",
"endTime": "00:16:48,108"
},
{
"index": 365,
"text": "that have temporarily stalled due to pandemic related delays.",
"startTime": "00:16:48,108",
"endTime": "00:16:52,346"
},
{
"index": 366,
"text": "To allow these projects to move forward",
"startTime": "00:16:52,346",
"endTime": "00:16:55,115"
},
{
"index": 367,
"text": "under the very stringent energy codes,",
"startTime": "00:16:55,115",
"endTime": "00:16:58,185"
},
{
"index": 368,
"text": "they were already designed for,",
"startTime": "00:16:58,185",
"endTime": "00:17:00,487"
},
{
"index": 369,
"text": "saves us millions of dollars in redesign and development costs.",
"startTime": "00:17:00,487",
"endTime": "00:17:04,758"
},
{
"index": 370,
"text": "And allows our projects to move forward.",
"startTime": "00:17:04,758",
"endTime": "00:17:07,394"
},
{
"index": 371,
"text": "Ensuring that affordable housing will be delivered",
"startTime": "00:17:07,394",
"endTime": "00:17:09,997"
},
{
"index": 372,
"text": "to low income communities.",
"startTime": "00:17:09,997",
"endTime": "00:17:12,065"
},
{
"index": 373,
"text": "Seattle remains one of the most environmentally",
"startTime": "00:17:12,065",
"endTime": "00:17:14,968"
},
{
"index": 374,
"text": "sustainable city's in the country.",
"startTime": "00:17:14,968",
"endTime": "00:17:17,237"
},
{
"index": 375,
"text": "The buildings",
"startTime": "00:17:17,237",
"endTime": "00:17:19,273"
},
{
"index": 376,
"text": "that Community Roots Housing has developed based on a 2015",
"startTime": "00:17:19,273",
"endTime": "00:17:21,108"
},
{
"index": 377,
"text": "and 2018 codes are greener",
"startTime": "00:17:21,108",
"endTime": "00:17:24,578"
},
{
"index": 378,
"text": "and more energy efficient than at any time in history.",
"startTime": "00:17:24,578",
"endTime": "00:17:28,382"
},
{
"index": 379,
"text": "And they all",
"startTime": "00:17:28,382",
"endTime": "00:17:29,416"
},
{
"index": 380,
"text": "comply with stringent",
"startTime": "00:17:29,416",
"endTime": "00:17:30,784"
},
{
"index": 381,
"text": "Washington State Evergreen",
"startTime": "00:17:30,784",
"endTime": "00:17:32,553"
},
{
"index": 382,
"text": "Sustainable Development Standards.",
"startTime": "00:17:32,553",
"endTime": "00:17:35,455"
},
{
"index": 383,
"text": "As we continue to work together to resolve the housing crisis",
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"text": "in our city,",
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"index": 385,
"text": "I look forward to continuing to work closely with Mayor Harrell,",
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{
"index": 386,
"text": "the City Council and the entire city.",
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"text": "To rapidly develop affordable housing,",
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"text": "while never compromising on our commitment to sustainability.",
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"index": 389,
"text": "Thank you. -Thank you, Chris.",
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"index": 390,
"text": "[ Applause ]",
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{
"index": 391,
"text": "Thank you, Chris.",
"startTime": "00:18:01,815",
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"index": 392,
"text": "So we're going to sign some legislation.",
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"text": "And I want to,",
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"index": 394,
"text": "again, thank you for the community leaders and",
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"endTime": "00:18:08,555"
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{
"index": 395,
"text": "housing leaders in potential tenants doing this great work.",
"startTime": "00:18:08,555",
"endTime": "00:18:13,393"
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"index": 396,
"text": "And particularly our departments here.",
"startTime": "00:18:13,393",
"endTime": "00:18:15,796"
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{
"index": 397,
"text": "Our One Seattle Approach you're going to see right",
"startTime": "00:18:15,796",
"endTime": "00:18:18,131"
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{
"index": 398,
"text": "where we need it to be, which is vibrant, active, fun,",
"startTime": "00:18:18,131",
"endTime": "00:18:22,703"
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{
"index": 399,
"text": "joyful on a great day.",
"startTime": "00:18:22,703",
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{
"index": 400,
"text": "So thank you for being here,",
"startTime": "00:18:24,705",
"endTime": "00:18:26,206"
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"index": 401,
"text": "and let's sign some legislation so I can -- Pass me some pens.",
"startTime": "00:18:26,206",
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{
"index": 402,
"text": "Okay.",
"startTime": "00:18:29,276",
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{
"index": 403,
"text": "-Right here, Mayor. One, two, and three.",
"startTime": "00:18:51,031",
"endTime": "00:18:53,000"
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{
"index": 404,
"text": "One, two, and three. Thank you.",
"startTime": "00:18:53,000",
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{
"index": 405,
"text": "-Yay!",
"startTime": "00:19:24,097",
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"text": "[ Cheers and applause ]",
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"text": "♪♪\n♪♪\n-It's all about arts and culture,\neverything we do is about activation and expression\nand SDOT director Adiam Emery.\nThank you for being here as well\nand your great transportation leadership,\nwhich is gotten some attention, some good attention lately.\nI also want to thank Lincoln Property\nfor hosting us here today at the state of the art 225th building.\nThis is amazing, isn't it?\nI'm talking about the weather by the way.\nThis site is amazing,\nthe architectural statements that are made, the feel of it\nand most importantly\nwhat we're trying to do to activate this area.\nAnd support the growing life sciences and biotechnology\nhub here in South Lake Union.\nWe know that this is an incredible industry,\none we do not take for advantage -- for -- take,\nWhat's the word I'm trying to find?\nFor granted. It's been a long week so far.\nCreating over 25,000 jobs in the sector here in King County,\nWashington and just do amazing work for global health\nand regional health and the kinds of things\nthey're working on.\nYou know we get criticized from the other Washington\nfor some of our commitments to things like equity and gender\nfairness, and climate change.\nWe get attacked for our belief in science and how we are,\nwe believe in the benefits of research grants at a time\nwhere we have to fight for this kind of commitment.\nAnd I have leaders around me that will talk more about that,\nbut the fact is, is housing, jobs,\nand a diversity of small businesses\nare critical to our economic vitality.\nCritical to us being vibrant here in downtown\nand a little north of downtown.\nDowntown runs on people.\nOn small businesses, on ideas.\nAnd our downtown activation plan,\nthat I'm very proud of the planning\nthat we did,\nbut most importantly the implementation as well.\nAnd I want to thank our Office of Economic Development\nand that regard as well.\nWe are making progress again to make downtown safe,\nthriving, vibrant, and critical neighborhood for residents,\nworkers and visitors alike.\nSo, the first piece of legislation\nwe'll be signing this morning\nwill help fill vacant storefronts by expanding\nground level commercial uses.\nWhich will in effect boost our economy\nand activate our streets with more people.\nIn this particular facility, again in the biotech space,\nwe couldn't be more excited.\nThis will broaden the pull of tenants for ground floor spaces\nand allowing more entrepreneurs,\nand free thinkers and small business owners\nto call downtown Seattle home.\nAnd we actively recruit these types of tenants\nand we're excited about what we're seeing.\nNew businesses will be allowed on ground floor areas.\nThis will include medical offices,\nresearch and development,\nlaboratories, food processing, horticultural operations,\ncrafts, manufacturing, art installations and many more.\nAnd again I want to thank SDCI for their wisdom\nin thinking about how we can think outside of the box.\nAnd indeed, Chief Operating Officer Marco Lowe\nand his group for the housing work.\nThe housing ideas that have come forward in this work.\nThe second piece of legislation\nwill extend building permits for projects previously vested\nunder our old codes.\nAnd this will in effect allow projects to proceed\nwithout the time and cost of applying for new permits.\nWe think this is a critical strategy,\nwhich by extending these permits,\nit will prevent hopefully the potential loss\nof 29,000 planned units of housing.\nIncluding many affordable housing units and housing\nprojects planned for downtown.\nAnd you'll from Chris Persons later.\nAnd I want to thank Chris and his organization,\nCommunity Roots, for doing the work that they are doing.\nThese affordable housing units and housing\nprojects planned for downtown not only house people,\nwhich is the most important thing,\nthey also produce about $13.4 million in sales tax\nand $75 million in MHA fees.\nSo it's a win-win scenario\nwhen we're trying to do this kind of work.\nSo we know that in a challenging economic environment right now\nand that's why I'm so pleased to see my department heads here.\nWe have a One Seattle approach trying\nto look at our entire system and think, what makes sense\nas we deal with some of our fiscal challenges.\nSo, I close by thanking Councilmember Mark Solomon\nfor his leadership in sharing the land use committee,\nhe's been focused on its expanding economic opportunities\nand creating new housing\nand supporting small businesses throughout the entire city.\nAnd of course he's been with the city for a while,\nmaking sure, in the public safety realm,\nthings are going along the way,\nhe wants to see them as a crime prevention specialist,\na subject matter expert.\nAnd now he uses his expertise in other areas.\nAnd so as land use chair,\ncouncil member Solomon has been strong work\nto get this legislation over the finish line\nand we look forward to continuing our with him.\nAnd I present to you Councilmember Mark Solomon.\n-Thank you, Mayor Harrell.\n[ Applause ]\nGood morning, everyone. Thank you for being here.\nI'm happy to be here with you\ntoday to celebrate this new piece of legislation.\nWhich will help revitalize key areas of downtown Seattle.\nToday we're introducing new law\nthat allows for more flexible uses of ground floor spaces\nin key areas of our city's court.\nAnd this legislation opens the door for a broader range\nof vital police defining businesses\nand creative commercial designed.\nMaking it easier for entrepreneurs,\nscientific research groups and local vendors\nto bring fresh ideas to our downtown streets.\nAnd as we continue recovering from the impacts COVID-19,\nwe know that reestablishing the character\nof our changing downtown, is imperative.\nWhat people want and need from our city spaces is evolving.\nAnd this law responds directly to that shift.\nIn a powers property owners\nand small business owners with more freedom\nto shape their spaces in ways that serve the community.\nWhether that means a pop-up shop, or a small restaurant,\nor a ground floor\nwhich contributes to the research and development.\nThat will alter how we interact with our world.\nOr even something we haven't imagined yet.\nVery critically I want to thank many stakeholders\nwho helped shaped this policy and the SDCI staff\nand the Mayor's staff.\nWho worked extremely hard,\nturning stakeholder feedback in a new legislation\nto revitalize our downtown.\nI also got to give a shout out to my policy guy,\nThaddeus Gregory.\nWho did a heavy, a lot of heavy lifting on this himself.\nI'm not going to let the fact that he worked on\nthis go unnoticed.\nSo, thank you.\nTogether we're building a vibrant downtown.\nIt's not just recovering, but finding new vibrant life.\nAnd paving the way for a stronger, more resilient future.\nSo, thank you.\n-Thank you Councilmember Solomon.\n[ Applause ]\nAnd I also, Nathan I didn't see you standing there,\nI want to recognize Nathan Torgelson,\nwho is the SDCI Director,\nthank you for your leadership and your groups leadership.\nNext you'll hear from SungYang,\nI think many of you know who he is,\nChair of the Downtown Seattle Association Board\nand the Principal at Pacific Public Affairs.\nAnd has over two decades of experience\nmanaging public policy. Sung every time I introduce you,\nyou just omit the part that you work for the City of Seattle,\nI don't know what your slow plan is on this here.\nAs where I met you.\nA former public servant Sung has been a champion for arts\nand economic development in our downtown neighborhoods\nand thank you for your consistent\nand strong leadership.\nSung Yang. -Thank you, Mayor.\n[ Applause ]\nGood morning, everybody.\nI do want to start by thanking Mayor Harrell\nfor this legislation.\nAnd also for really his unwavering dedication,\ncommitment and hard work.\nNobody works harder at making downtown thrive\nthan Mayor Harrell and I want to truly thank him for that.\nI also want to thank Councilmember Solomon\nfor spearheading this effort at the council\nand for rallying his colleagues around its approval.\nAnd everyone else here in this room\nthat brought us to this really historic occasion\nof the passage of these two pieces of legislation.\nDowntown's revitalization,\ncontinued revitalization is critical for the entire city.\nAs the regions economic engine\nwhat happens in the core of Seattle,\nradiates far beyond its footprint.\nAs you walk through the heart of downtown\nyou will see foot traffic reminiscent\nof pre-pandemic times.\nAnd many of our public spaces full of activity and vibrancy.\nBut far too many of our storefronts remain empty\nand that doesn't send a message\nthat matches with the trajectory and reality\nof downtown's upper trajectory.\nThis legislation will help fill vacant ground floor spaces\nin downtown neighborhoods.\nFilling gaps in our urban fabric,\nproducing even more activity on our streets.\nAnd driving our revitalization efforts forward.\nDowntown needs to have a diversity of businesses\nto serve its diverse population of residents,\nworkers and visitors.\nBy allowing new business types to be located,\nhere, we are also creating opportunities\nfor entrepreneurs to call downtown home.\nAnd setting up shop,\ndowntown should feel like an attainable goal.\nHere today at a new state of the art life sciences facility\nwe are recognizing how our downtown is also a hub\nfor research and development.\nA critical industry in our city,\nthat can now expand to ground floor spaces\nunder this legislation.\nDowntown has made a tremendous comeback over the last few years\nunder the Mayor's activation plan, Mayor's leadership,\nthe work of the council\nand of the Downtown Seattle Association.\nData from Downtown Seattle Association downtown's\nrevitalization dashboard shows that in March\nwe saw a post-pandemic high of nearly 101,000 workers downtown\non an average per day.\nIn the third month of Amazon's return to five days a week\nin the office, the South Lake Union,\nin the Denny Regrade neighborhood,\nsaw daily worker foot traffic of nearly 48,000.\nNumbers that are trending closer to pre-pandemic conditions.\nAnd in a significant, significant development,\nlocal visitors and these are people\nwho live within 10 miles of downtown\nare coming to the center city at an increasing rate.\nIn fact,\nin March 2025 the number of local visitors\nto downtown surpassed pre-pandemic levels.\nSo working with the city and our partners,\nwe will continue this momentum\nand we're excited to welcome new business to downtown.\nThank you very much.\n-Thank you, Sung.\n[ Applause ]\nThank you, Sung.\nNext you're going to hear from Alex Aigner,\nwho is the Executive Vice President of Development\nat Lincoln Property Company.\nOverseeing the firms redevelopment projects\nthroughout Washington and Oregon including right here at 225th.\nAnd Lincoln's development pipeline\nin the pacific northwest\nincludes over 1,500 multi-family units.\nAnd more than 500,000 square feet of commercial,\nretail and life science developments.\nThis is the, Lincoln's exactly the kind of company\nwe recruit and we want to stay here,\nbecause there is such a vital,\nthey play such a vital role in our success.\nAlex, please take the mic.\n-Thank you. Good morning.\nThank you Mayor Harrell and Councilmember Solomon.\nThank you for everyone involved at the city\nfor all your hard work to push this legislation through.\nThank you to Ian Morrison,\nour Land Use Council at McCullough Hill Leary\nfor all the hard work that you've done as well.\nMy name is Alex Aigner,\nI am an Executive Vice President at Lincoln Property Company.\nAnd with our partners,\nIntercontinental Real Estate Corporation,\nwe developed, own and manage this life science building.\nWe want to express our sincere appreciation to the Mayor\nand to Council Solomon for your leadership\nin passing this important legislation.\nBy expanding the types of street level uses permitted\nin our buildings,\nyou're helping unlock opportunities for innovation,\nactivation and connection in key parts of our city.\nThis is a kind of regulatory flexibility,\nit's exactly what we need right now to bring new life\ninto our ground floor spaces. These uses attract foot traffic,\ncreate jobs and contribute to a more engaging\nand walkable urban experience.\nAt 225th we're matching the city's\nforward thinking policy by reimagining\nhow space can be used.\nSo we've launched CoLabs,\na biotech incubator designed\nto support early stage life science companies in Seattle.\nThrough CoLabs we provide flexible lab space\nand operational support to help startups grow,\nattract investment and scale.\nOur goal is to ensure the next generation of biotech companies,\nnot only start in Seattle,\nbut grow here and thrive here.\nAnd help position Seattle as a key hub in the nation\nfor medical research.\nThank you again Mayor and Councilman\nfor taking this bold and thoughtful action.\nThis legislation is a meaningful step to a more vibrant,\nresilient and inclusive downtown.\nAnd Lincoln Property Company and Intercontinental\nare proud to be a part of it.\n-Thank you, Alex.\n[ Applause ]\nNext our closer.\nDo you remember the show, this is bad, this here's 222,\ndo you remember the show Room 222?\nDo any of you remember that?\n-I do.\n-You are, you and I are the only ones to remember that.\nYou remember it too, okay, it was a popular show,\nI was going to try to weave that into the room.\nOkay, so that's what I first thought of\nwhen I saw that address.\n-I was very young.\n-You were very, I was in college, no I'm just kidding.\nSo as many of you know because the great work\nthat Christopher and his organizations done,\nhe's the CEO of Community Roots Housing since 2007\nand he's led the organization through significant growth.\nAnd many award winning housing projects and.\nWe know he'll be retiring later this year\nand we want to thank you Christopher,\nyou're just untiring energy and commitment\nto affordable housing\nand a strong partnership with the city of Seattle.\nAnd all the work you've done to address housing affordability.\nSo closer, Chris, take us home.\nAlright. -Thank you, Mayor.\n[ Applause ]\nThank you, all.\nAgain, my names is Chris Persons,\nI'm the CEO of Community Roots Housing.\nWe own and operate 46 properties in Seattle\ncomprising almost 2,000 affordable apartments.\nWe also have three new projects under construction\ntoday comprising nearly 400 more.\nAnd our future development pipeline includes\nmore than 700 additional homes.\nCommunity Roots Housing has been developing\nand operating affordable multi-family properties\nin Seattle for 50 years.\nAnd every year it gets harder and more expensive.\nI tell, if you've got IT professionals that work for you,\nor an IT team this might resonate with you.\nI tell my IT director, who I love, I tell him, all the time,\njust make it easier for me to do work.\nAll I want to do is work and get my job done.\nAs a prominent affordable housing developer,\nall I want to do is build more affordable housing.\nMake it easier for us to do our work.\nAnd that's what this legislation does.\nThank you to City Council and Mayor Harrell\nfor making this no-nonsense legislation happen.\nBy allowing Community Roots projects\nthat have temporarily stalled due to pandemic related delays.\nTo allow these projects to move forward\nunder the very stringent energy codes,\nthey were already designed for,\nsaves us millions of dollars in redesign and development costs.\nAnd allows our projects to move forward.\nEnsuring that affordable housing will be delivered\nto low income communities.\nSeattle remains one of the most environmentally\nsustainable city's in the country.\nThe buildings\nthat Community Roots Housing has developed based on a 2015\nand 2018 codes are greener\nand more energy efficient than at any time in history.\nAnd they all\ncomply with stringent\nWashington State Evergreen\nSustainable Development Standards.\nAs we continue to work together to resolve the housing crisis\nin our city,\nI look forward to continuing to work closely with Mayor Harrell,\nthe City Council and the entire city.\nTo rapidly develop affordable housing,\nwhile never compromising on our commitment to sustainability.\nThank you. -Thank you, Chris.\n[ Applause ]\nThank you, Chris.\nSo we're going to sign some legislation.\nAnd I want to,\nagain, thank you for the community leaders and\nhousing leaders in potential tenants doing this great work.\nAnd particularly our departments here.\nOur One Seattle Approach you're going to see right\nwhere we need it to be, which is vibrant, active, fun,\njoyful on a great day.\nSo thank you for being here,\nand let's sign some legislation so I can -- Pass me some pens.\nOkay.\n-Right here, Mayor. One, two, and three.\nOne, two, and three. Thank you.\n-Yay!\n[ Cheers and applause ]"
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