The measure on the November 2nd ballot that will have the largest direct affect on our community is Proposition 1, the Civic Campus Levy. Over the next couple of days we will be publishing statements supporting and opposing approval of Proposition No. 1. We begin with a statement supporting the levy from MLT residents Alice Kier, Patrick Pierce, Robert Reedy:
Vote YES for the Mountlake Terrace Civic Campus! This project is about reinvesting in our community and restoring economic vitality in Mountlake Terrace. The Civic Campus will drive targeted development to downtown, bolstering the tax base and ensuring that city services will be sustainable into the future.
Utilizing existing city-owned property reduces costs and retains a central location with easy connectivity to the Transit Center and forthcoming Flyer Stop. The competitive bidding environment makes now the most fiscally responsible time to make this investment as current bids for construction projects are coming back up to 30% under estimates.
A new Civic Campus plan was conceived based on the input of residents to meet our community’s current and future needs. Seniors and families alike will benefit from meeting and event facilities in the Community Center, which also includes a commercial kitchen. An amphitheater, spray fountain and additional park space offer even more areas for community gatherings and events.
Consolidating city services under one roof will increase efficiency and convenience for residents. A much-needed new police station and Emergency Operations Center will improve security measures and preparation for disasters and major storm events.
Financing is phased in over the next three years, minimizing immediate impacts on residents while preparing our community to thrive in the future. Exemptions are provided to low-income residents. Even with this small property tax increase, Mountlake Terrace will continue as one of the most affordable cites to live.
Please vote YES for this important community investment!
Alice Kier, Patrick Pierce, Robert Reedy
Amen to that Hoppy. The last thing we need to do is buy a new Civic Campus on credit! Let’s just keep city government small so that the residents of Mountlake Terrace can keep more of their money in their families pockets!