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…