The Seattle City Council has unanimously approved a proposal to ask voters for the biggest property tax increase in the city’s history. The $1.55 billion, 8-year transportation levy is set to replace the previous Move Seattle levy and would raise property taxes by 70% on a median home. The focus of the levy is on basic infrastructure improvements like sidewalks, road repaving, and bridge maintenance, which cannot be accomplished within the current budget constraints.
City Council Transportation Committee Chair Rob Saka added to the original proposal by Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell to reach the final $1.55 billion amount. Public polling indicated that voters support significant investment in transportation improvements, despite concerns about affordability in Seattle and potential rent increases. An amendment to allocate $20 million of the levy towards completing the Burke Gilman Trail was also approved. The legislation is set to go on the November ballot after Harrell officially signs it following a press conference on Wednesday morning.
