Title
Consider Options for the Timing and Source of Funds for a Housing Levy and Public Safety Levy
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
The Ad Hoc Committee on Housing Affordability has considered a range of options for the timing and source of funds for a housing levy and a public safety levy.
City Manager Recommendation:
Consider the options and provide staff with feedback and direction regarding the timing and source of funds for a housing levy and a public safety levy.
Report
Issue:
Whether to provide staff with feedback and direction regarding the timing and source of funds for a housing levy and public safety levy.
Staff Contact:
Steve Hall, City Manager, 360.753.8447
Presenter(s):
Steve Hall, City Manager
Mary Verner, Administrative Services Director
Background and Analysis:
Given the strong support for these measures, the City Manager seeks City Council guidance on how to bring these issues to the community for a vote. At the June 6, 2017, City Council Study Session, Stuart Elway from Elway Research presented the results of a recent resident opinion poll that the City commissioned. The survey asked residents to respond to a series of questions pertaining to housing and public safety. Mr. Elway reported that when asked, "in your opinion, what is the most significant issue facing the City of Olympia at this time?" 51 percent responded that homelessness was the biggest issue facing the City of Olympia. He also noted that there was strong support for the public safety package with nearly 8 in 10 respondents supporting the package. There was also strong support for the housing package with 8 in 10 respondents also supporting it. Support is less vigorous when respondents were asked to consider both packages together.
The Ad Hoc Committee on Housing Affordability has been meeting regularly since March to consider options for a housing levy and public safety levy. The committee has identified two primary options for funding these activ...
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