SEQUIM — Supporters and opponents of the proposed buyer’s excise tax are confident that the final tally after ballots are turned in Clallam County will go their way.
Meanwhile, attention has already shifted beyond the local debate over a surcharge on real estate purchases.
The measure’s outcome here could affect enthusiasm for similar efforts elsewhere in Washington, including Jefferson County, and real estate groups are building a campaign war chest to fight real estate tax measures proposed for next year’s legislative session.
The overall amount of money raised — at least $189,000 — ranks the contest as more expensive per voter than the statewide ballot initiative campaigns or high-profile Seattle races, according to a Seattle Times analysis.
With about 44,000 registered voters in Clalam County, that comes to about $4.30 per voter.
Voters are deciding whether to place a half of 1 percent tax on the purchase of real estate in Clallam County.
The tax would raise an estimated $2.7 million a year to purchase conservation easements to protect agricultural land, and would expire in 10 years unless reauthorized by voters.
Promising responses
Sequim real estate broker Mike McAleer, who has been the public face of opposition to the tax, said Friday that last-minute campaigning at the corner of Washington Street and Seventh Avenue in Sequim elicited a promising response.
“I was out there waving signs today, and we certainly had a much more positive response than negative,” he said.
Organic farmer Nash Huber, meanwhile, said the proponents’ campaign also has reason to be optimistic.
“All of our doorbelling and our phoning tells us we’re in good shape,” Huber said.
“But I’ve gone into elections feeling like this before, and been disappointed.
“It’s tough — it’s not A, B, C or D. It’s pass or fail.”
