The Lake Stevens City Council unanimously approved a resolution to place a 0.2% (two-tenths of one percent) sales tax increase to fund a Transportation Benefit District (TBD) on the November 8, 2022 General Election ballot. If approved by voters, the TBD would help the city access funds for safe walkways and sidewalks connections to schools, street maintenance, and grant funds for larger transportation projects designed to relieve traffic congestion.

Earlier this year more than 900 people participated in a city survey that asked community members to prioritize transportation improvement projects, such as sidewalks, streets and pathways.  

“The TBD will fund local projects to improve safety for residents. It also is the way forward to provide matching funds for millions of dollars from the state and federal governments to fund larger traffic congestion relief projects,” Mayor Brett Gailey said. “Ultimately, the voters decide if this is what they want and that’s how it should be.”  

The city estimates it would collect approximately $1.5 million per year through its TBD if approved by voters. Transportation projects are expensive, and current costs of materials and construction mean that municipal governments must think creatively and proactively. That’s why TBDs can be used by cities to provide matching funds for grants from state and federal governments.  

Click here to read the full news release and visit the City's TBD page for more information.