FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 20, 2024

MEDIA CONTACT

Linda Robson, Media & Communications, LRobson@cityoftacoma.org, (253) 219-7083

Letters of Interest Due July 8 at Noon to Serve on Fire Levy Ballot Measure ‘For’ and ‘Against’ Committees

TACOMA, Wash. – The City Clerk's Office is seeking volunteers to serve on committees to prepare statements “For” and “Against” City of Tacoma Proposition No. 1 - Property Tax Levy Increase, Levy Lid Lift, also referred to as the 2024 Tacoma Fire Levy ballot measure.

On Tuesday, June 18, The City Council adopted Resolution No. 41454 concerning lifting the property tax levy for the Tacoma Fire Department (TFD). The measure will be on the General Election ballot of Tuesday, November 5, 2024. Resolution No. 41454, transmitting this measure to the Pierce County Auditor, can be viewed at www.cityoftacoma.org/notices.

• This measure enhances TFD facilities, fleet, and staffing to improve response capacity and firefighter safety by increasing the regular property tax levy by $0.65/$1,000 to a maximum rate of $2.52/$1,000 of assessed value for collection in 2025; authorizing an annual increase up to 6% for 2026-2030 for the additional rate; authorizing the 2030 levy amount as the basis to calculate future levies (RCW 84.55). Qualifying seniors, veterans and others would be exempt (RCW 84.36.381).

 Statements prepared by the “For” and “Against” committees will appear in the voters’ pamphlet for the November 5 General Election. To be considered for appointment to either committee, submit a letter of interest by noon on Monday, July 8, to the City Clerk’s Office. Letters may be sent by email to cityclerk@cityoftacoma.org or by mail to 747 Market Street, Room 220, Tacoma, WA 98402. Each person must submit their own letter of interest. Include the following information in your letter:

• Your name,
• Whether you are advocating “For” or “Against” the measure,
• Where you live (home address), and
• Why you would like to serve on the committee.

Community members with questions about the process or the ballot measure can contact the City Clerk's Office at cityclerk@cityoftacoma.org or (253) 591-5505.

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