EVERETT — The city of Edmonds will host two public workshops Thursday to highlight paths forward in addressing the city’s budget crisis.
In April, voters approved annexation into South County Fire, saving the city $6.5 million. Now, the city is considering placing a $6 million property tax levy lid lift on the November ballot. The property tax levy lid lift was included in the 2026 budget.
After collecting community feedback through workshops and public hearings, the council plans to consider placing the measure on the ballot at its July 8 meeting. The deadline to submit a measure for the Nov. 4 election is Aug. 5.
If the council decides not to place a levy lid lift on the ballot, or voters don’t pass it, the city may have to make cuts to a number of departments, including parks, police, economic development, and planning and development, the council discussed at a retreat earlier this month.
“The city has cut staff and programs, deferred repairs, used its reserves, borrowed internally and pursued additional revenue sources,” city spokesperson Neil Neroutsos wrote in a press release Friday. “The core issue is structural: revenue has not kept pace with inflation. Public input is critical to determining the way ahead.”
At the workshops, the city will present property tax levy scenarios, discuss community feedback about current service levels and explore additional revenue ideas. Edmonds Mayor Mike Rosen, council members and other city staff will be available to answer questions and collect feedback.
The workshops will take place 3-4 p.m. and 6:30-8 p.m. at the Brackett Room at Edmonds City Hall. A virtual option will be available on the city’s website.
Jenna Peterson: 425-339-3486; jenna.peterson@heraldnet.com; X: @jennarpetersonn.
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