State Rep. Dave Upthegrove, D-Des Moines, called last week for mediation to resolve the Lora Lake Apartments controversy.

The city of Burien has planned for several years on replacing the affordable housing complex, which is located close to the third runway at Sea-Tac International Airport, with commercial development.

But in March, King County Executive Ron Sims and the King County Housing Authority decided they wanted to keep Lora Lake open.

The Port of Seattle owns the property.

Upthegrove asked both Burien and Sims to enter into discussions.

"I am confident that a mediated process can produce a resolution that not only serves the interests of Burien and King County, but also advances economic development and affordable housing goals," Upthegrove said.

"The public interest is best served when local governments work together instead of suing each other," he added.

Upthegrove represents the 33rd Legislative District, which includes Burien.

His request suggested the parties use the William D. Ruckelshaus Center, a conflict resolution and problem-solving program of the University of Washington and Washington State University.

Upthegrove also announced that he had secured a commitment from House Speaker Frank Chopp, D-Seattle, to support new state investments in Burien to help facilitate a resolution to the dispute.

He pledged "to champion a state funding request" as part of a negotiated solution.

"We have a responsibility, at all levels of government, to contribute to the economic and housing needs of the region," Upthegrove said.