Council delays vote on cultural access sales tax, discusses tree code amendments

The Edmonds City Council postponed a vote on a 0. 1% cultural access sales tax until after the Nov. 4 general election, with a new decision date set for Nov. 12. Councilmember Vivian Olson highlighted the financial burden on residents due to concurrent tax measures, including a $14.

5 million property tax levy. The cultural access tax is projected to generate approximately $1. 3 million annually for local nonprofit programs in arts, science, and heritage. Additionally, the council discussed amendments to the tree code aimed at preserving existing trees during development, which was initially adopted in 2021. Proposed revisions seek to clarify ecological benefits and introduce alternatives for tree replacement procedures.

The council also honored the Cascadia Art Museum for its decade of contributions to the community. September was proclaimed National Suicide Prevention Month, emphasizing local commitment to mental health awareness. A public hearing on the tree code amendments will follow in the near future to gather community input.