When government’s executive and legislative branches are controlled by different political parties, you either have cooperation or gridlock. Fortunately, Snohomish County has a good share of the former.
The budget approved by the County Council on Wednesday is a picture of reasonable people forging a workable compromise. It’s also evidence that a stable fiscal foundation is in place as Executive-Elect Aaron Reardon prepares to take office in a few weeks.
Current Executive Bob Drewel once again proposed a responsible spending plan that made tough choices but ensured the most necessary county services can be delivered. The council, which has the ultimate responsibility to pass the budget, made reasonable changes that will require more belt-tightening but that keep property taxes in check as the economy begins to recover.
The council’s Republican majority rejected Democrat Drewel’s proposed 1 percent general property tax increase, keeping that levy where it is. The council did approve some smaller, justified 1 percent tax hikes — for road improvements and purchasing land for conservation. The council also wisely agreed to increase surface water management fees in urban growth areas, which are a necessary price of growth.
Axing the general property tax increase will cost the county some $680,000 in revenue — no small hit, especially considering that the maximum 1 percent hike wouldn’t even have kept pace with inflation. Still, it represents a strong show of good faith to taxpayers, many of whom continue to struggle to make ends meet. It’s an important message that county government is prepared to live within its means, as all taxpayers must.
That the budget passed without a major battle is an indication that Drewel and the council have succeeded in fashioning a lean and efficient county government. Still, important investments will continue: Money is included in this budget to continue the work spearheaded by Drewel and Councilman John Koster to streamline the county permit process and simplify the county code on land use, a key economic-development effort.
With Democrat Reardon taking office in January, the party split in county government will continue. It’s encouraging to note that Reardon has a strong record of working with members of both parties to effectively set priorities and follow through on them.
There’s every reason to believe he and this council can work well together. Following the current example would be an excellent way to start.
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