To the Editor:
Everett Proposition 1 (July 17 Tribune coverage) will impact all residents of Everett significantly.
While the city government has presented this initiative as necessary for our community, it is crucial that we understand the full implications before casting our votes.
Proposition 1 proposes a staggering 44% increase in the City portion of property taxes. Currently, the levy is $1.52 per $1,000 of assessed value, but if Prop 1 passes, this will rise to $2.19 per $1,000. This increase is being downplayed by the city, which prefers to communicate the additional cost as monthly increments to make it appear more manageable.
Consider the real annual costs:
For a home valued at $400,000, it’s an additional $268 per year.
For a $650,000 home, it’s an additional $435 per year.
For a $900,000 home, an additional $603 per year.
Landlords are likely to pass these costs on to renters, making housing even less affordable for tenants.
Moreover, it is important to address misleading information about public safety. Proponents of Prop 1 suggest that rejecting it will result in cuts to essential services like police and fire departments. Not true. The mayor and city council have not proposed any reductions in public safety funding if Prop 1 fails.
By rejecting Prop 1, we are not compromising our safety or community services. Instead, we are sending a clear message to our city leaders that they need to manage our budget responsibly without resorting to substantial tax increases.
Reject Proposition 1. Let’s keep Everett affordable for everyone and demand fiscal responsibility from our elected officials. For additional information see: www.RejectProp1.com
Joel Norris
Everett
