The recent discussions surrounding Snohomish County’s proposed 8 percent property tax increase have brought to light a concerning trend in local governance: the reflexive reach for tax hikes instead of exploring more sustainable solutions.
While County Council members Strom Peterson and Megan Dunn appear to favor this approach, it’s time for our county leadership to consider alternatives that don’t further burden taxpayers. Peterson’s casual admission that the carbon accountability measure was a tax raises an eyebrow. His dismissal of over 100 citizens who took time out of their day to voice concerns about the property tax increase is equally troubling. This attitude suggests a disconnect between elected officials and the constituents they serve.
Meanwhile, while understandable, Dunn’s focus on potential layoffs overlooks the broader impact on county residents already struggling with rising living costs.
The failure of Proposition 1, with 56 percent of voters rejecting it, clearly indicates that residents are wary of additional tax burdens. What’s particularly perplexing is the push for higher taxes when Snohomish County sits on a hefty reserve fund. With over $100 million in reserves — representing up to 32 percent of the budget — the county far exceeds the best practice guideline of 15 percent. This surplus suggests there’s room for more judicious financial management without resorting to tax increases.
Instead of reaching deeper into taxpayers’ pockets, the county should take seriously the recommendations by the performance audit identified where costs can be cut without compromising essential services:
Implement technology-driven solutions; modernize county operations to reduce overhead and improve service delivery; explore public-private partnerships: leverage private sector expertise to enhance efficiency in county projects; reassess non-essential spending: prioritize core services and trim expenditure on less critical areas; consider a partial refund and return excess reserves to taxpayers, providing relief while maintaining a prudent buffer.
The County Council, particularly Councilman Jared Mead as the potential swing vote, should carefully consider these alternatives. Raising taxes should be a last resort, not a default solution.
Snohomish County residents have made their voices heard through public testimony and at the ballot box. Our elected officials must listen and explore innovative solutions that respect taxpayers’ wallets while ensuring efficient county operations. The path forward lies in reform and responsible financial management, not burdening residents with ever-increasing taxes.
Todd Welch
Everett
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