LETTER TO THE EDITOR Is The City Of Burien About To Increase Property Taxes?

Burien's $25 Vehicle Tax/Proposition 1, aimed at funding sidewalks and bike paths, is facing backlash from local residents ahead of the November vote. Mayor McGilton's rationale for avoiding a property tax was to align with the conservative values of Burien’s electorate, yet the city recently proposed a property tax increase as well. Citizens voiced their concerns during a public hearing, highlighting the absence of critical information regarding the tax's necessity and financial implications. The city’s assurances that the tax would last only two years contradict state regulations that could extend its duration indefinitely. Critics noted that pedestrian and bike usage in the proposed project areas is low, with only 13% of survey respondents seeing a need for improvements.

Outside endorsements for the tax have raised additional suspicions about its support base and transparency. Joe Fitzgibbons suggested that this could be a "trial balloon" for Burien to gauge residents' acceptance of new taxes. Voters are urged to reject Proposition 1 until the city provides clearer justification for any tax increases.