BDA and Chamber Advocate Joint Message to City Council Regarding Budget Challenges and Opportunities

On September 21, 2020, the Bellevue Downtown Association (BDA) and Bellevue Chamber of Commerce presented a unified message to the City Council regarding the 2021-2022 budget amid significant financial challenges. The pandemic has led to lower-than-expected sales and B&O tax revenues, creating a major budget shortfall. The joint effort aims to "Keep Bellevue Strong" by advocating for financial stability while ensuring core services and essential capital investments are maintained. Their recommendations focus on two main categories: Investment Priorities, which outline necessary services and growth-supporting projects, and strategies to Bridge the Gap through cost-saving measures and revenue tools. The City Manager's Office is scheduled to release a Preliminary Budget in October, with a final public hearing to follow.

The BDA will assess how well their recommendations influenced the Preliminary Budget and prepare to address the Council in the upcoming hearing if necessary. This collaborative approach underscores the importance of community involvement in local governance during challenging economic times. The emphasis on resilience and proactive measures aims to position Bellevue for swift recovery and growth in the post-pandemic landscape.