On September 17, the Seattle City Council approved legislation aimed at curbing illegal prostitution and drug dealing in specific areas of the city.
Councilmember Cathy Moore sponsored CB 120836, which gives the City the authority to create Stay Out of Area of Prostitution (“SOAP”) zones. The first SOAP zone, established under this legislation, encompasses Aurora Avenue North (including two blocks east and west) from 85th Street to the city’s northern border at 145th Street. This legislation targets those who promote prostitution or purchase such services while offering additional support for victims of the sex trade.
Similarly, CB 120835, introduced by Committee Chair Bob Kettle, authorizes the City to establish Stay Out of Drug Area (“SODA”) zones. Initially, two SODA zones were created: one in the Chinatown-International District and another downtown, covering areas north and south of 3rd and Pine. Amendments approved by the Public Safety Committee added SODA zones in Belltown, Pioneer Square, Capitol Hill, and the University District, and expanded the Chinatown-International District zone. An amendment by Councilmember Rob Saka also requires judges to consider an offender’s residence, place of employment, and location of service providers when crafting a SODA order. This legislation was drafted by Seattle City Attorney Ann Davison.
Both pieces of legislation passed with an 8-1 vote, with Councilmember Tammy Morales casting the sole vote against. The bills now move to Mayor Bruce Harrell, whose spokesperson stated that he is “supportive of additional tools to help keep neighborhoods safe.”
