City of Kenmore Proposition 1: property tax levy lift for climate, housing and human services

Official plain English statement

The City of Kenmore seeks voter approval to increase the City's regular property tax levy up to $1.25 per $1,000 of assessed value to fund programs and services for Climate & Environmental Stewardship, Affordable Housing, and Human Services. Under state law, without voter approval, a city may increase its regular property tax levy amount by only 1% each year, which has not kept pace with inflation and costs of providing City programs and services. If approved, Proposition 1 would authorize the increase of the City's levy rate by approximately $0.36 per $1,000 assessed value, for a total regular property tax rate not to exceed $1.25 per $1,000 assessed value for collection in 2027, and allow the levy amount to increase by up to 6% in the succeeding five years (2028-2032). The total rate may not exceed the maximum property tax levy rate allowed to cities by state law. The 2032 levy amount would be the basis to calculate subsequent levies. The increase in the City's regular property tax levy, combined with cost-cutting measures by the City, will promote financial sustainability for City operations and programs. Proposition 1 would add approximately $30 per month to the property tax bill for a home assessed at Kenmore's average value of $1,000,000. Proposition 1 would exempt qualifying seniors, veterans, and others from the increase. For questions about this measure, contact: Scott Passey, City Clerk, (425) 984-6193, [email protected]