Council Roundup: March 23, 2020

COVID-19, Plastic Bag Ban Temporary Suspension, Sustainable Climate Action Plan, Arbor Day
Posted on 03/30/2020
Eviction notice.

Updated December 17, 2020

Council temporarily suspended the plastic bag ban, discussed emergency support for Burien community impacted by COVID-19, issued a proclamation honoring Arbor Day, and heard updates on the rental housing inspection program and sustainable climate action plan.

Resolution Bans Late Rent Fees and Supports Statewide Eviction Moratorium

Previously, the Council agreed to issue a moratorium on residential evictions and a ban on fees related to late payment of rent. Days later, the Governor issued a statewide moratorium on evictions. In light of the Governor's action, the council passed a resolution supporting Governor's statewide moratorium and issued a moratorium on fees for the late payment of rent.

Plastic Bag Ban Temporarily Paused to Protect Worker Health

In order to protect the health and safety of grocery and retail workers, Council temporarily paused the plastic bag ban as well as directed businesses to not charge the pass through fee on paper bags.

Workers from local grocers contacted the City of Burien expressing their concern about having to handle reusable bags brought from home during the COVID-19 public health emergency. The temporary suspension helps grocery workers reduce handling of the reusable bags.

Human Services Commission will Oversee $200,000 COVID-19 Emergency Fund

The City announced that the emergency support Council approved on the March 16 meeting will be placed in the Human Services Fund and overseen by the Human Services Commission.

City of Burien Response to COVID-19 Update

City Manager Brian J. Wilson provided an update on efforts the City is taking to alter operations and provide community support in response to the COVID-19 public health emergency.

Arbor Day Proclamation

Council issued a proclamation in honor of Arbor Day. With social distancing and stay home orders in effect, the City is encouraging residents to celebrate Arbor Day at home.

Rental Housing Inspection Program Update

Council heard an update on the status of the rental housing inspection program in Burien. The inspection program is on track to launch January 2021.

Sustainable Climate Action Plan Update

Council heard an update on the development of a sustainable climate action plan for the City of Burien. Currently staff are gathering data to develop a baseline understanding of Burien’s greenhouse emissions. This initial report is being developed with the assistance of ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability, a global network of more than 1,750 local and regional governments committed to sustainable urban development.