ML council considers tax, levy hike
Increase would add $484,656 to city receipts
The city of Medical Lake may raise property taxes and the EMS levy by 1 percent.
By state law, the city can raise property taxes by 1 percent without a public vote. Finance Director Pamela McBroom told the council that in 2009, the levy amount the city received was $468,993. With the increase, the city could collect around $484,656. The EMS Replacement Levy is 50 cents for every $1,000 of assessed property value. If the city approves the increase, it would bring in an extra $1,024 in the levy and with new construction values the city would receive a total of around $105,798.
McBroom added the overall value of the city has decreased and the property values of homes has decreased as well, so she estimates that property taxes would be less than they were in 2009.
“It is your decision if you want to do this increase or not,” McBroom told the council.
The council voted to approve the first reading of this ordinance, with Councilmember John Paikuli the only member in opposition. The second reading of this ordinance will be decided upon at the next city council meeting.
The council also voted to approve severance packages for two police officers who have been laid off after the signing of the police contract last week.
Former Officer Jacob Keith will receive a severance package of $20,000 and former Officer Abram Bingham will receive $15,000, with the usual stipulation that the agreements absolve the city from any litigation in the future.
The next Medical Lake city council meeting will be held Nov. 17.