Shoreline Sales Tax Increase May Go To November Ballot

SHORELINE, WA - The Shoreline City Council is discussing a possible ballot measure to raise the sales tax 0.2 percent for 20 years to fund sidewalk improvements. The sales tax increase would be an expansion of Shoreline's Transportation Benefit District (TBD), which was established in 2009 with a $20 car tab fee.

The Council will discuss the sales tax increase at Monday's meeting, but likely will not vote on the matter until July 30.

The city has identified nearly $1 billion in sidewalk improvements around the city. The highest priority improvements alone would cost $95 million. Some of the priority projects include:

• 15th Ave NE from NE 150th St to NE 160th St
• Meridian Ave N from N 194th St to N 205th St
• 8th Ave NW from North side of Sunset Park to Richmond Beach Rd
• Dayton Ave N from N 178th St to N Richmond Beach Rd

The 0.2 percent sales tax would generate only about $59 million over its 20-year lifespan. Shoreline would borrow money against that revenue to fund sidewalk improvements.

The sales tax discussion will take place Monday at the 7 p.m. City Council meeting at City Hall, 17500 Midvale Ave. North.

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