PORT TOWNSEND — Several City Council members apologized Monday night for a rushed property tax levy measure on the Nov. 2 ballot.
During a Monday business meeting, however, council members reiterated that the levy, Port Townsend Proposition 1, is the only solution to saving city services.
The proposition on the Nov. 2 ballot seeks to raise the city tax rate from $1.95 per $1,000 of assessed valuation to $2.95.
“I regret that we did not bring this vote out earlier this year,” said Councilwoman Freida Fenn.
“I will welcome a debate about core services. I want to become heavily involved in the public discussion. I am committed to that.”
The council heard several public speakers echo concerns about the speed of the measure during a contentious public forum last week.
The informational forum turned into an angry debate, during which speakers chastised city leaders for announcing the proposal too close to Election Day, and not allowing adequate time for public education and comment.
The city is facing a projected budget deficit of $760,000. If the levy fails, the city intends to cut funding to several public services, including the city pool and police and firefighting positions, City Manager David Timmons told the forum.
‘We elected you’
During Monday’s business meeting, the City Council heard from residents who questioned why the city manager spoke on behalf of the elected council.
“We elected you, we interface with you,” said resident Scott Walker.
“When the public interfaced with the city manager, that was really strange.
“My final issue — no public process to arrive at this. That was really upsetting to many people.”
