A contentious proposal by District 1 Councilmember Rob Saka to remove Alki from a list of areas being studied for designation as a "Neighborhood Center" under Seattle's One Seattle Comprehensive Plan was narrowly defeated in a Sept. 19 city council committee vote. The amendment's failure means Alki, along with eight other neighborhoods, will continue to be evaluated for the new zoning designation into next year.

The amendment to the Comprehensive Plan resolution, Res 32183, was voted down, with Councilmembers Saka, Rivera, Kettle, and Council President Nelson voting in favor. Councilmembers Rinck, Strauss, Juarez, and Hollingsworth voted against it, while Councilmember Solomon abstained. A majority was required for the amendment to pass.

Councilmember Saka, who represents Alki, argued passionately that the neighborhood is fundamentally unsuited for the increased density and development that a Neighborhood Center designation would bring. In his remarks before the vote, Saka laid out four primary reasons for his amendment, emphasizing the unique character and constraints of the Alki community.

"The first reason is geography, topography, and access," Saka stated. He described Alki as a "geographically isolated peninsula with limited access points," primarily Admiral Way Southwest and Harbor Avenue Southwest. He stressed that these are the only ways in and out, creating significant transportation challenges. "During the summer months... Alki becomes one of the most visited destinations in our entire city," he explained, noting that the influx of people severely strains the already limited infrastructure and that the community frequently becomes gridlocked .

Saka’s second reason focused on the lack of infrastructure. He pointed out that Alki has limited public transit options, lacks a true commercial core with essential services like a grocery store, and suffers from inadequate parking . "The addition of thousands of new residents without a plan to address these existing infrastructure deficits is, frankly, a recipe for disaster," he argued .

Third, Councilmember Saka highlighted the environmental considerations unique to Alki. He warned that the area is "highly susceptible to seismic activity, liquefaction, tsunamis, and sea-level rise" . Saka stressed that these environmental risks make large-scale development in the area not only impractical but potentially dangerous for future residents .

Finally, Saka’s fourth point was what he termed "the will of the people." He asserted that his office has been overwhelmed with opposition to the proposal from Alki residents. "Since this map was released... our office has been inundated with emails and phone calls," he said . "They're not just saying no; they're saying hell no" . He underscored that his duty is to represent his constituents, who feel their concerns about preserving the neighborhood's character have been ignored .

Despite the amendment's failure, Councilmember Saka's office affirmed his commitment to the issue. "Although the amendment was not successful... Councilmember Saka remains committed to advocating for Alki and will continue fighting to ensure the community’s voices are considered in the ongoing review process," a statement from his office read.

It is important to note that the vote does not mean Alki will automatically become a designated Neighborhood Center. It simply remains on a list for further study, with a final decision to be made next year.

The council committee, chaired by Councilmember Joy Hollingsworth, also entered a one-hour executive session during its meeting to discuss confidential legal matters related to the legislation with city attorneys.