It's hard to tell from the picture, because it doesn't zoom much, but I don't see rack mounting holes on the Seek 2. Once you get too hard-core into most genres in the US, they start leaving off practical things like rack mount and fender mounting abilities.

Also, look into the Gary Fisher Simple City 3 and Trek Allant. They are both at the top of your price range, but the Allant has everything you want right from the gate. The SC3 is only 3 speed, but it is internal gears, so it will be more reliable. It also has a coaster brake, which will be better in the wet than a rim brake.