LYNNWOOD, Wash. — The Lynnwood City Council narrowly approved a 52% property tax increase, a move that will cost the average homeowner an additional $143 annually. The decision, passed by a 4-3 vote, aims to fund the city’s $420 million biennial budget, which includes 27 new positions in public safety and infrastructure.
The council and city leadership have defended the increase as essential to address Lynnwood's rapid growth and years of minimal or no tax increases, particularly during the pandemic.
"We’re at a critical juncture," Mayor Christine Frizzell said in a statement to KING 5. "This biennial budget ensures our city continues to thrive by addressing long-overdue needs in public safety, transportation, and infrastructure."
However, not everyone supports the hike. Council President George Hurst, who voted against the increase, argued that the city should have explored cost-cutting measures before turning to taxpayers.
"I would support this if departments had been asked, ‘What can you cut?’" Hurst said. "Instead, the focus was always, ‘We need more revenue.’"
The steep increase has also drawn criticism from residents like Kathy Hansen, who says the hike is unaffordable for many.
"I think that’s stunningly high," said Hansen, a retired Lynnwood resident. "People like me don’t have the extra money sitting around to cover these kinds of increases."
City officials say the additional revenue will fund critical projects and staffing, including upgrades to public safety services and infrastructure improvements. Proponents argue the tax hike helps Lynnwood catch up after years of budget stagnation, ensuring it can meet the demands of its growing population.
Despite the significant financial impact, public input was sparse, says Hurst, with only three residents speaking at council meetings before the vote. Hurst noted many residents are only now learning about the increase.