Leavenworth City Council considers extended notice for rent increases to protect tenants

LEAVENWORTH – Tenants renting within city limits may see more local protections from rent hikes as early as this summer. During its June 25 Study Session, City Council opened the discussion to limit rent increases unless tenants are given extended notice, and directed city staff to draft an ordinance for review.

“I think with our low inventory, and as far as homes to buy and even rentals, this is just one more protection,” said City Councilmember Travis McMaster, who requested the discussion.

During the session, City Council reviewed a similar ordinance adopted by the City of White Salmon, WA, in Sept. 2023, which does not allow a landlord to increase the rent of a tenant by more than ten percent, unless the tenant is given at least 180 days’ notice before the increase takes place.

According to Columbia Gorge News reporting, the White Salmon ordinance received a unanimous vote of approval from its city council, as well as support from community organizations such as Comunidades, a Latino-led environmental and social justice organization in the Gorge. However, landlords believed there were already enough tenant protections within state law. 

According to RCW 59.18.140, under The Residential Landlord-Tenant Act, a landlord must provide a minimum of 60 days’ prior written notice of an increase in rent, and the increase may not become effective until the completion of the rental agreement term. Currently, the City of Leavenworth does not have specific tenant protections written into municipal code.

By adopting an ordinance that would require 180 days’ notice, it would give tenants more time to seek out other housing options, and prepare for moving expenses if necessary, which is intended to help low-income households.

“I think it's a real valid point. Tenants need protection. I don't think you're denying the landlord's ability to function or to be entrepreneurs,” said City Councilmember Zeke Reister.

City Councilmember Clint Strand expressed urgency for adoption if the city were to pursue such an ordinance, fearing that landlords may try to implement rent hikes before its adoption. City Administrator Matthew Selby said he would start drafting an ordinance to review for the next study session. A public hearing date will likely be set after review.

“This could be done in July,” said Selby.

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media