Get Involved - Help Keep Seattle's Nightlife Safe and Vibrant
There are a variety of issues facing Seattle’s Nightlife industry and both the City of Seattle and State of Washington are contemplating new laws that would greatly regulate music, nightclubs, bars, and restaurants. Please continue to check back here for more updates and opportunities for you to get involved in these important issues.
The Mayor recently sent an ordinance to the Seattle City Council that would place onerous regulations on Seattle’s nightlife industry. Over 300 establishments will be subject to this new law and many will be unable to operate under the stringent conditions placed in the ordinance.
The full text of the ordinance can be found here and SeattleNMA’s analysis of the legislation is posted here. More information can also be found by clicking on the talking points page.
The City Council needs to hear from you regarding this proposed ordinance. Those of us who enjoy Seattle’s vibrant nightlife must have a voice in this debate. Neighborhood activists in support of this legislation are organizing today. It is critical that we also weigh in and let the City Council know that there is an active group opposed to this ordinance.
You can cut and paste the letter below or create your own personalized message stating your opposition to this legislation. Regardless, it is key that you get involved and ensure your voice is heard. Please contact the City Council today! To email the full City Council, click here. Councilmembers email addresses are listed below in case your browser does not support the hyperlink.
Dear City Councilmembers:
I am writing in opposition to the proposed Nightlife Premises Ordinance recently forwarded to you by Mayor Nickels. I strongly oppose this legislation and urge you to ensure this does not pass.
The Mayor’s proposed ordinance would place undo additional regulation on an industry already regulated by multiple state and local agencies. At a time when most cities across the United States are looking to attract nightlife opportunities to their downtowns and neighborhoods, Seattle is taking the exact opposite approach. In fact, this ordinance will result in a loss of nightlife establishments, live music opportunities and dancing in Seattle.
Please do not support this legislation. We all want a safe and vibrant nightlife in our city but this ordinance does nothing but regulate one industry while not tackling the real issues associated with increased density and changing cultural norms.
I urge you to work with the nightlife community – including those of us who enjoy patronizing nightlife establishments – to find real solutions that move our city forward, not backwards.
Sincerely,
Name
Address
Seattle City Council:
Sally Clark – sally.clark@seattle.gov
Richard Conlin – richard.conlin@seattle.gov
David Della – david.della@seattle.gov
Jan Drago – jan.drago@seattle.gov
Jean Godden – jean.godden@seattle.gov
Nick Licata – nick.licata@seattle.gov
Richard McIver – richard.mciver@seattle.gov
Tom Rasmussen – tom.rasmussen@seattle.gov
Peter Steinbrueck – peter.steinbrueck@seattle.gov
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