Parks and Green Spaces Levy - Seattle, WA

Purpose: To propose options for parks, open space, boulevard, and other projects; and to identify strategic funding options for these potential improvements and acquisitions.

An ordinance authorizing the City to levy regular property taxes for up six years to acquire, develop, and/or restore parks, recreation/cultural facilities, green spaces, and other areas; providing for pending tax receipts; developing a levy oversight committee; and creating a new fund.

The City Council created a Parks and Green Spaces Citizens’ Advisory Committee in April 2008 to propose options for parks, open space, boulevard, and other areas; and to identify strategic funding options for these potential improvements and acquisitions. The Committee submitted its report and the City Council adopted the Ordinance – placing a levy on the November 2008 ballot – in July 2008 (58% of Seattle voters supported the levy).

According to the FAQ’s, the projects will take in $146 million and last from 2009-2014. In addition, it will cost $80.78/year for the life of a levy. Please see the FAQ’s for the amount of money allocated to each project.