Seattle is struggling to meet the challenge of ensuring that individuals and families of all income levels can work and live in our city. One phenomenon impacting this challenge is the increasing conversion of apartments to condominiums. During the past two years there has been a significant loss of rental housing in Seattle due to condo conversions.

Nearly 4,000 apartments or about 3 percent of our rental units were converted to condominiums in 2005 and 2006. In addition, the rate of apartment conversions continues to increase: in 2004, 430 apartments were converted, in 2005 conversions rose to 1,551 apartments, last year 2,352 apartments were converted and during the first two months of this year 497 apartments have been permitted for conversion.

Unless the renters can afford to buy their unit, they must move. Renters are facing an increasingly difficult situation. Because of the improving economy, with more jobs and more people moving to Seattle, rental rates are at a six-year high and the current vacancy rate is 3.1 percent. A 5 percent vacancy rate is considered a "healthy" vacancy rate resulting in a balance between the number of available units and reasonable rent levels.

Some lives are very fragile. Trying to find a decent place to live after living in the same apartment for decades can be emotionally upsetting and financially devastating. Having to pay the first and last months rent and a damage deposit can cost thousands of dollars.

Seattle does not control its own destiny when it comes to condo conversions; state law governs much of what the city can do. I am working with property owners, housing advocates and key members of the state legislature to pass legislation to amend state law to reach a better balance between the rights of property owners and renters.

I am pleased to report that there is legislation pending in the state House and Senate which provides a stronger balance between renters and property owners in three key areas:

- Increase the time required for notice of conversion from three to four months

- Increase the amount of relocation assistance payments to low income tenants

- Prohibit construction inside the building until the tenants move out

The proposed legislation is a great improvement over the current law. We must recognize both the rights of property owners and the individuals who are impacted by the conversions.

Seattle is not the only community affected by condominium conversions. I urge people who care about the plight of people who must relocate due to the conversion of their apartment to contact their state senator and state representatives in support of this important legislation.

Tom Rasmussen chairs the Housing, Human Services and Health Committee of the Seattle City Council and may be reached at 684.8808 or tom.rasmussen@seattle.gov