2026 Episode 34: Should Seattle Ban Rental "Junk Fees"? A Discussion with Mayor's Office Senior Policy Advisor Kerem Levitas

The Seattle City Council faces a big vote this week to ban so-called "junk fees" for renters--added costs like pet fees or mailbox fees that are tacked on to monthly rent, sometimes without disclosure to the renter. Will the ban help create a more transparent and understandable process for renters, or (as some landlords claim) simply raise rents citywide and make Seattle less affordable? Seattle Channel host Brian Callanan talks with Seattle Mayor's Office Senior Policy Advisor Kerem Levitas for a special episode of Seattle's finest coffee break political podcast. If you like what you're hearing on this show, please support it on Patreon!