Seattle Council eliminates local appeal process for growth plans in narrow 5-4 vote

City Council voted 5-4 to eliminate pre-legislative hearing examiner appeals for growth plans, moving appeals to superior court. This procedural change aligns with Mayor Wilson's 'Taller, Denser, Faster' agenda and could accelerate housing development. Councilmember Lin emerges as a pro-housing star; Saka and Kettle opposed. Follows earlier SEPA streamlining bill.