2020/02/26 Council Agenda Packet

Create Grassroots Org. Develop Governance Develop Messaging Plan Identify Levy Rate Market MPD Vote Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb 44 Jan 2020 2021 2022 Snohomish County Parks Ballot Measure History 2011-2018—There were eight ballot measures between 2011 and 2018 that sought additional funding for Parks in Snohomish County—three were Parks specific and five were combined measures that included other services, such as public safety, criminal justice, and transportation. Below is the pass/failure data. The full history is provided in the Appendix of this report. Ballot Measure Pass Fail Total Park& Rec Specific 0 3 3 Multiple Services Including Park& Rec 2 3 5 Total 2 6 8 Of the 52 Park& Rec ballot measures that were brought before voters between 2011 and 2018, eight were in Snohomish County—two of which passed and six failed. Impact on Median Value Property Homeowner—The cost to a median value residential property owner would depend on the MPD's levy amount. A table showing the incremental cost increases a median value residential property is provided on page 9. Recommendation—Establishing an MPD has potential to mitigate a portion of the structural deficit and provide additional funding for Parks. However, based on the sample timeline, it would not be in place to help balance the 2021 budget, nor would it eliminate the deficit entirely. Therefore, it is recommended that the City focus its efforts in 2020 on an option that provides a more immediate and complete result. Regional Fire Authority (RFA) Creating an RFA funded by property tax would require simple majority voter approval. Creating an RFA funded by a combination of property tax and a fire benefit charge would require super majority voter approval. Fire Benefit Charge—A Fire Benefit Charge (FBC) is an alternative funding mechanism for an RFA that can cover up to 60%of its operating costs. The FBC is a fee (not a tax)that only applies to the structural improvements on properties according to the property use and size of structure. The formula for allocating the FBC is designed so that those who benefit more from fire protection services(e.g. large structures and high fire-risk structures) pay more for fire services. EMS & Fire Marshall's Office— If an RFA were formed,the EMS levy,transport fees, and associated costs would shift entirely to the RFA. However,the City would retain financial responsibility for Fire Marshall services,which could be contracted out to the RFA. MINI LI Alternative Service Delivery/Funding Models Wage