King County Council approved a sales tax increase 6-3 to expand emergency shelter options for children and families experiencing homelessness. The increase takes effect countywide January 1 without a public vote.
The tax adds one cent to a $100 purchase and is expected to raise about $10 million a year. Seattle’s sales tax rate will rise to 10.56% after the change.
The council says 967 young people are experiencing homelessness in King County, while 187 shelter beds are available. Councilmember Jorge Barón sponsored the measure. A state law passed earlier this year allowed the council to approve the increase without sending it to voters.
Councilmember Reagan Dunn criticized both the higher tax and the decision not to hold a vote. A February ballot measure, had this been its only question, could have cost the county an estimated $2.1 million to $3.9 million.
Please note! Comments are published by readers. The opinions expressed may not reflect the position of the editorial team. USCT is not responsible for the content of readers' opinions and asks authors to observe moral standards, not to incite national or racial hatred, and to avoid rudeness. Think before you speak. You are responsible for your words! By publishing an opinion, you agree to the rules! If this request is ignored, USCT reserves the right to deprive the user of the ability to leave comments.