News - Elections

POSTED: Tuesday, Nov. 03, 2009

Whatcom County Library tax increase narrowly passing

Whether the Whatcom County Library system will be able to continue current services or have to make cuts remained unknown Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Early results for a propostion that would increase property taxes was passing with 51 percent of the vote. But many ballots remained to be counted, and the vote difference was only 249 ballots out of more than 20,000 cast on the issue.

"We're optimistic and hopeful," said Whatcom County Library System Director Joan Airoldi. "We thank all the voters of Whatcom County for their support of libraries, even those who don't want to see their taxes raised but still support their library."

The measure, if approved, would raise property taxes about 10 cents per $1,000 assessed value, to a new rate of 44 cents. Only those living in the library district - basically everyone outside of Bellingham - could vote on the measure, which needs only a simple majority to pass.

If approved, it would mean an additional $25.50 a year for the owner of a home assessed at $250,000, and $30.60 for a home assessed at $300,000.

Currently, residents of the district pay 33.8 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value, or $84.50 for the owner of a home assessed at $250,000.

The request had to go before the public because Initiative 747 limits property tax collection increases to 1 percent per year unless voters approve more.

Whatcom County Library officials have said they need the additional money to keep up with expenses and inflation, maintain services, and plan out its services and budgeting for the next five years, based on what library users have said they want.

Without the additional money, hours the branches are open would be reduced by 47 hours a week, and staffing levels would be cut.

If voters reject the proposal, cuts will begin in January.