Resolution of the 46th District Democrats
Opposing Initiative 864
Adopted on February 19, 2004

WHEREAS Initiative 864, in proposing a 25% cut in local property taxes, would severely cut local services and existing jobs in local government, and

WHEREAS the 1700 local taxing districts that depend on property tax revenue include such districts as your county, city or town, fire department, library, public hospital, parks and recreation, water and sewer, ports, cemetery and flood control districts, and

WHEREAS Initiative 747 already limits overall property tax growth to 1% a year, which is the lowest in the country, and

WHEREAS alternative legislation like a Property Tax Homestead Exemption to benefit middle and low valuation primary residences of taxpayers would benefit those most in need of property tax relief, unlike Initiative 864 which would give huge tax breaks to large corporations, real estate developers and large wealthy property owners, and

WHEREAS the local loss of jobs, and decreased services like cuts in road repair, park closures, diminished police and fire protection, fewer library hours and new books, cuts in youth programs and senior citizen programs, diminished emergency medical service and the rest that would occur with a 25% property tax cut will be devastating to the citizens of Washington State,

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the 46th District Democrats oppose Initiative 864 and urge voters to not sign it or vote for it. We urge our members and our organization to join in efforts to defeat Initiative 864, to contribute funds and volunteers to oppose Initiative 864, and to provide such other help as may be available.

Submitted by Steve Zemke