Tacoma City Council approves Nov. 5 ballot measure for additional 2 percent utility levy for street

This evening, Tacoma’s City Council unanimously voted to approve a resolution to place a measure on the November general election ballot to levy an additional 2 percent earnings tax on electricity, natural gas and telephone utilities.

This additional 2 percent tax will be solely dedicated to fund basic maintenance and safety upgrades, city roads, arterials and bridges; permanent pothole repairs; pedestrian safety improvements to crosswalks near schools, sidewalks and intersections; repaving neighborhood streets and improved signal timing.

These earnings will generate a dedicated long-term, funding source for street maintenance and safety improvements of $10 to $11 million annually.

Over the next three months, City staff will provide opportunities for citizens to learn more about the ballot measure including a series of community meetings so citizens can make an informed decision on November 5.