The Olympia City Council convened on July 29, 2025, to discuss potential amendments to the city's rental housing code, focusing on balancing tenant protections with the needs of landlords. The session highlighted concerns about the implications of state legislation that has relaxed restrictions on certain rental properties, raising questions about how local regulations might conflict with these changes.

Council members expressed a desire to ensure that any amendments to the rental housing code do not inadvertently create more burdens for small landlords, particularly those managing duplexes and triplexes. Council Member Gilman raised concerns that maintaining strict local regulations could counteract the state’s intent to encourage rental housing development. This sentiment was echoed by other council members, who emphasized the need for clarity and simplicity in the regulations to avoid confusion among landlords and tenants alike.

A significant point of discussion centered on manufactured home parks, with council members expressing a need for stronger protections for residents. Currently, only two parks in Olympia are zoned specifically for manufactured homes, which limits the protections available to residents in other areas. Council Member Cooper suggested that existing zoning should be applied more broadly to protect residents from potential redevelopment threats.

The council agreed to refer the matter back to the land use committee for further discussion, aiming to find a consensus on how to proceed. This approach reflects the council's commitment to considering the diverse perspectives of tenants, landlords, and advocates while navigating the complexities of housing policy.

As the city grapples with these issues, the outcomes of this discussion will be crucial in shaping Olympia's housing landscape, ensuring that both tenant protections and landlord rights are adequately addressed. The council's next steps will be closely watched by community members concerned about housing stability and affordability in Olympia.