Title
Discussion on the Public Safety, Levy Lid-Lift and Banked Capacity
Recommended Action
Committee Recommendation:
Not referred to a committee.
City Manager Recommendation:
Discuss the Public Safety Levy-Lid Lift and banked capacity. No action requested.
Report
Issue:
Whether to discuss the Public Safety Levy-Lid Lift and Banked Capacity.
Staff Contact:
Debbie Sullivan, Director, Administrative Services 360.753.8499
Ronnie Roberts, Chief, Olympia Police Department 360.753.8409
Presenter(s):
Debbie Sullivan, Director, Administrative Services 360.753.8499
Ronnie Roberts, Chief, Olympia Police Department 360.753.8409
Background and Analysis:
On November 7, 2017, voters approved a Public Safety Levy-Lid Lift. The ballot measure authorized the City to levy regular property taxes to fund vital community safety programs and services.
The ballot measure authorized the City to increase the property tax levy up to $.045 per $1,000. The estimated cost to launch the new programs was $2.8 million, which included additional law enforcement officers for the downtown walking patrol, neighborhood liaisons, code enforcement, a mental health response team, direct mental health services, and Community Court.
The City raised property taxes $.034 per $1,000 to generate $2.8 million. The difference between the assessed $2.8 million and the maximum allowed of $3.53 million is referred to as "Banked Capacity." Staff will discuss with Finance Committee options for whether to access the banked capacity to meet related public safety needs while still maintaining adequate funds to ensure full continuation of these new programs into the future.
Neighborhood/Community Interests (if known):
Continuation of the new programs is the highest priority to fulfill the commitment to the community.
Options:
1. Discuss the needs of the Public Safety programs and services and direct staff to prepare a recommendation as part of the operating budget. Additional revenue could be availab...
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