It’s easy at times to feel we’re alone in how we feel about the poor state of Seattle. But a new survey by the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce reveals the complete opposite.

We’re not alone. In fact, we’re the vast majority.

The survey of 700 registered voters in Seattle show what Chamber CEO Rachel Smith has described a “crystal clear” voice of the community’s views on matters like public safety and homelessness.

As the survey shows, your frustrations about the direction of the city are shared by most other voters like you in Seattle, regardless of what a vocal minority of fringe activists would have you believe.

Make Your Voice Heard!

Contact the Seattle City Council about the new Seattle Chamber survey that shows a clear voter consensus how to make Seattle a great place to live! Tell them we want a crackdown on crime, no more homeless encampments, and a fully staffed police department.

The survey was conducted by EMC Research, whose Senior Principal Andrew Thibault said at an April 11 media conference that he’s rarely used words like “overwhelming agree” so frequently to describe Seattle voter sentiment on how to address so many different issues. “We tend to have pretty strong policy preferences and ideas, but there is a lot of consensus (in the survey) on the approach that voters would prefer to take. (There’s) a real thirst for action. They’re, I think, tired of the debate and want to move on and see results.”

Despite the current pessimistic view held by city voters right now, Smith noted that surveyors were hopeful overall about the long-term direction of the city. “While some of the numbers are stark, some of them are tough to see, I have a great deal of optimism, because the voters have laid out a clear path.”

We share Smith’s sentiment. Though things are bad right now and many think of leaving the city, the situation can be changed with the right actions. After years of destructive policy decisions, it’s evident that throwing more money on homelessness, going easy on petty and violent criminals, and defunding the police doesn’t work.

Voters have become acutely aware of this. Their streets aren’t safe, crime is up, and they are unable to enjoy parts of the city they pay taxes to maintain. They’re strongly united in their desire for the kind of solutions that Change Washington has advocated for.

That includes:

• Increased prosecution of crime that destroy communities
• Removal of homeless camps on public spaces
• Fully staffing the police department to a size appropriate for a safe and vibrant city

This is indeed the time for action, on your part. Those opposed to real change in City Hall need to know that they are alone, and that voters will no longer tolerate the inaction or failed efforts they’ve been forced to endure for years. As The Seattle Times editorial board recently noted, “when so many people are this frustrated, leaders must get in step or get out of the way.”

Some elected officials like City Attorney Ann Davison, Councilmember Sarah Nelson and Mayor Bruce Harrell have so far done their part to turn things around.

However, others still don’t get the program. Councilmember Lisa Herbold sponsored a proposal last year to legalize misdemeanors in the city. Councilmember Tammy Morales voted to defund the police department and has since offered no meaningful solutions to the increased crime.

As for Councilmember Kshama Sawant, she’s like a broken clock that doesn’t even get the time right twice a day.

We’ve previously asked you contact elected officials to remind them they’re not alone in their efforts to improve the city. You’re not alone, either. It is those standing in our way that are out of touch with the mood and sentiment in Seattle. The voice of the majority needs to be heard by those who ultimately are held accountable by them.

Contact the Seattle City Council about the new Seattle Chamber survey that shows a clear voter consensus how to make Seattle a great place to live! Tell them we want a crackdown on crime, no more homeless encampments, and a fully staffed police department.