Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson vetoes RV permit legislation

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson has vetoed Council Bill 121283, a legislative package that would have established a permit program for recreational vehicles parked on city streets. The bill, sponsored by Councilmember Dan Strauss, aimed to eventually ban RVs from Seattle streets by requiring residents to participate in mandatory services and accept shelter offers.

Wilson cited concerns regarding the complexity, legality, and high cost of the proposal, estimating that the permit apparatus could cost upwards of $10 million by 2027. She argued the program would create an inefficient bureaucracy and divert personnel from core public safety duties.

In place of the bill, Wilson issued an executive order directing the Human Services Department to conduct intensive outreach to RV residents and connect them to shelter options. This includes the recently opened Glassyard Commons in West Seattle, which accommodates 72 RVs and 20 tiny house shelters. The order also establishes an interdepartmental working group to recommend policy and legal changes within 60 days.

While the legislation originally passed with a 6-3 vote, Councilmember Rob Saka, who previously supported the bill, indicated he would not provide the necessary sixth vote to overturn the mayor's veto, meaning the veto is expected to stand.