Aug. 19 Edmonds Council meeting includes public hearings on impact fees, cultural access sales tax

On Aug. 19, the Edmonds City Council will conduct public hearings on an interim ordinance regarding development impact fees and a proposed cultural access sales tax. The impact fees are crucial for offsetting the effects of new development on the city’s parks and transportation systems, with revisions needed to align with new state guidelines. The proposed cultural access sales tax is projected to generate $1. 3 million annually for up to seven years to support nonprofit programs in science, heritage, and the arts.

Community leaders note that many local nonprofits have lost funding previously provided by the National Endowment for the Arts. The council will also review a public safety enhancement sales tax, although no public hearing is scheduled on that topic. Additionally, the council will discuss ordinances related to appointive officers and neighborhood centers. A Council Committee B meeting will precede the special meeting, focusing on building code updates and a lighting improvements project. The meeting will take place at 6:05 p.

m. in the council chambers, with remote participation options available.