The Bellevue City Council approved updates to the Multifamily Tax Exemption (MFTE) program to promote new housing development, particularly in the Wilburton area. The MFTE program offers temporary property tax exemptions for multifamily developments that include affordable housing. The updates align with new land use codes, introducing a 20-year homeownership program and allowing commercial buildings converting to residential use to qualify for the MFTE incentive.

The council also initiated parking reforms to modernize Bellevue’s parking regulations in response to recent state legislation. Changes will align the city’s land use code with state mandates and the Bellevue 2044 Comprehensive Plan, which aims to promote transit-oriented development and reduce barriers to housing production. The parking reforms will address minimum parking requirements and stall dimensions for various developments, including affordable housing and childcare centers.

Additionally, councilmembers previewed the 2026 legislative session, which began on Jan. 12. The session will focus on budget adjustments and address key issues such as the state budget shortfall and housing affordability. Bellevue’s legislative priorities for 2026 include economic prosperity, affordable housing, transportation, and streamlined permitting.