Letter to the Editor Vote Yes on Proposition 1 to keep our balance sheet strong

Lake Forest Park's Proposition 1 proposes a temporary property tax increase of about $240 per year to cover rising public safety costs. CPA David Hammond supports the measure and highlights the city's ongoing financial struggles, stating that annual income falls short of spending. He emphasizes that utilizing city reserves to balance the budget merely postpones the problem. For thirty years, the city has kept tax levies under one percent, which is no longer sustainable. Hammond points out that neighboring cities are facing dire financial situations, leading to tax hikes and layoffs.

Supporting Proposition 1 would help maintain the city's balance sheet and reserves for future needs. The tax increase will fund critical services, including the special police department and 911 dispatching. Voters are urged to consider the long-term implications of their decision.