Increase in county sales tax should be left to voters

Published 1:30 am Thursday, February 15, 2024

In regard to House Bill 2211 and Senate Bill 6076 that would allow county governments to impose an additional sales tax without a vote of the people: I support funding of law enforcement, but not by methods that violate my understanding of how a true democracy works, i.e., the people having a voice in determining taxation. Elected officials are to represent the people who elected them not dictate what those people are to do (pay for) without the people’s input.

A quick review of Snohomish County’s financial statements for the last several years clearly indicates local government currently has the funds necessary to pay for public safety. The General Fund’s fund balance has nearly doubled in the last four years. Public Safety expenditures across all funds, including Grants and Human Services funds, has increased from $174 million in 2019 to $261 million in 2022, a nearly 50 percent increase in only four years. Judicial expenditures are accounted for separately.

Local government currently has the authority to seek additional funding specifically for public safety by requesting a vote of the people. I sincerely hope our elected officials respect the rights of their constituents to vote on taxation and do not pass HB 2211 and SB 6076.

Sharyl Raines

Mukilteo

Update: Neither bill received floor votes for further consideration, but could be reconsidered in budget discussions.