Title
Discussion of Administrative Costs and Issues Related to the Opportunity for Olympia Income Tax Initiative
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Originally referred to the May Finance Committee meeting. Due to scheduling conflicts the May Committee meeting was cancelled.
City Manager Recommendation:
Discuss and develop an understanding of the costs and administrative issues associated with the proposed City of Olympia income tax.
Report
Issue:
Whether to discuss the associated cost to the City if the potential initiative passes.
Staff Contact:
Jane Kirkemo, Administrative Services Director, 360.753.8499
Presenters:
Steve Hall, City Manager
Jane Kirkemo, Administrative Services Director
Background and Analysis:
In April, the City was notified of a potential initiative to apply a 1.5% income tax on Olympia residents with a household income exceeding $200,000 for the purpose of assisting in the cost of community or technical college. Although not officially received by the City, staff and Council have been given a draft of the proposed City of Olympia income tax initiative.
On April 17, the Council held a study session to discuss some of the legal issues associated with the potential initiative. Tonight’s meeting is to continue the discussion, this time focusing on the administrative costs and issues. (e.g. How will the City pay to have the initiative certified by the county? How much will it cost to have the initiative placed on the November ballot?) Staff will draft a list of questions/issues to be discussed at the meeting. The purpose of tonight’s meeting is for staff and the Council to develop a comprehensive list of administrative issues.
Neighborhood/Community Interests
The City’s Coalition of Neighborhoods Association has proposed holding a forum on any City initiative on the November ballot.
Options:
Discuss and add to staff’s list of administrative issues.
Discuss but do not add to staff’s list of administrative issues.
Do not discuss the administrative issues.
Financial impact:
The financial impact of the proposed initiative is undeterminable at this point.
Attachments:
Initiative.