Hidden “junk fees” are giving Seattle renters the squeeze as housing costs continue to climb. From payment processing charges to fees for services renters never asked for, these add‑ons make comparing homes nearly impossible and push already rent‑burdened households closer to instability. With half of local renters struggling to afford their rent and many paying extra fees on top, City leaders say it is time to act. 

WHO: 
Mayor Katie Wilson 
Councilmember Dionne Foster 
City Attorney Erika Evans
Mari Lopez Gonzalez, Villa Comunitaria
Colleen Echohawk,  Community Roots Housing  
Tiffani McCoy, Seattle Social Housing Developer
Vallen Solomon, King County Housing Justice Project  
Kate Rubin, Be:Seattle; Stay Housed, Stay Healthy Coalition; Seattle Renters Commission 

WHAT: 
Outline proposed legislation addressing rental junk fees, discuss enforcement aimed at creating a fair and predictable rental market, and describe how these fees affect renters

WHEN: 
WEDNESDAY, July 8, 2026

• 12:45 PM – 1:15 PM Rental Junk Fee Press Conference, Main Lobby
• 2:00 PM - City Council Housing, Arts, & Civil Rights Committee Meeting - Council Chambers 

WHERE: Seattle City Hall - 600 4th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104