During a recent city council meeting, officials addressed pressing budgetary concerns, highlighting a significant increase in costs and a stark revenue shortfall attributed to the impacts of COVID-19 and inflation. Council members emphasized the urgent need to address rising crime rates, which they linked to recent state policy changes and failures in the justice system.

The council discussed the implications of a proposed levy aimed at maintaining public safety services funded by the Rescue Act. If approved, the levy would preserve the addition of two police officers, a crime analyst, and various support services, including those for homelessness and mental health. The council stressed that a yes vote would not only enhance community safety but also align the city’s police force with state averages, as the city currently ranks last in police per capita in Washington.

Conversely, council members warned that a no vote would lead to reduced police services, diminished community safety, and potential declines in property values. They underscored the necessity of a balanced budget, noting that cuts would be inevitable regardless of the levy’s outcome, but the impact would be less severe if the levy passed.

Council member Grace Matsui shared insights from her recent training at the emergency operations center, emphasizing the importance of preparedness for regional disasters. She also encouraged community engagement at an upcoming budget open house, where residents can discuss the city’s financial challenges and the need for a balanced budget, which has not been achieved in recent years.

The discussions reflect a critical juncture for the city as it navigates financial constraints while striving to ensure public safety and community trust in its fiscal management.