Lynden City Council approves new sales tax starting January

The Lynden City Council unanimously approved a new sales tax during a meeting on Monday night, which will take effect on January 1, 2026. This tax, set at one-tenth of one percent, will add a dime to every $100 purchase made in the city. The council projects the tax will generate up to $400,000 in revenue in its first year, supporting public safety services. This decision follows a legislative move earlier this year by the state Legislature, which allowed eligible cities to adopt the tax without requiring voter approval. Lynden's approval makes it the second city in Whatcom County to enact this measure, joining Bellingham.

Both cities are focused on improving funding for essential public safety services through this additional revenue stream. The tax reflects a growing trend among local governments to seek alternative funding sources for crucial services. As other cities observe this development, the impact on public safety funding in the region could lead to further similar initiatives.