Police and Public Safety Levy on November Ballot

Lake Forest Park will present a six-year police and public safety levy to voters during the November 2025 election. If passed, the levy aims to support critical services such as police staffing, training, 911 dispatch, and mental health diversion programs. Ballots will be mailed to registered voters, and must be postmarked or returned by November 4, 2025. The City faces challenges under state law, which limits property tax revenue growth to 1% annually, despite a 24% rise in costs due to inflation over the past four years. Essential service costs, including workers’ compensation for law enforcement, have surged—52% in three years and projected to rise another 15% in 2026.

The proposed tax rate is $0. 24 per $1,000 of assessed property value, with exemptions available for qualifying low-income seniors and disabled residents. This measure seeks to establish a sustainable funding model for public safety, ensuring the City maintains its fiscal responsibility. For more details, residents can visit the City’s website or contact City Administrator Phillip Hill.