The court’s ruling to overturn the 1 percent cap on property tax rate increases was an unfortunate one for homeowners.  While I support the special session to reinstate the 1 percent cap, to think that this will solve the property tax issue is wrong.  For six years we’ve been operating under this cap, but still seniors and people on fixed incomes struggle with rising property taxes.

Initiative 747 did nothing for homeowners struggling with property assessment issues.  Providing stability and relief to property taxpayers will need to include more than a one percent cap.

Reinstating the cap sends a strong message, but it will be diluted by the issue of banked capacity.  Without getting too detailed, local governments can still do one-year raises over 1 percent.  For example, the City of Kirkland in 2005 used banked capacity to increase their rate 10 percent.  It was for a good cause, public safety resources, but it was in no way an emergency.

Seniors and people on fixed incomes need relief now, or some will lose their homes.  Every homeowner needs the Legislature working to find solutions to the property tax problem.

We need the 1 percent cap back, but more work needs to be done.

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For more information:

State Rep. Larry Springer (425) 739-1806 

Website and print-quality image: www.housedemocrats.wa.gov/members/springer

Staff contact: Andrew Dziedzic (360) 786-7218

Radio and TV News Directors: To obtain broadcast-quality audio on this issue, or to arrange for TV or radio interviews, please contact Caucus Broadcast Coordinator Dan Frizzell at frizzell.dan@leg.wa.gov or 360.786.7208.