EVERETT, Wash. — Everett’s proposed budget for next year does not cut services or staff, according to a statement from Everett Mayor Cassie Franklin, but it could include a new sales tax to fund public safety.
“Bringing forward any type of tax increase is difficult, but ultimately, this is the best option available to protect and build upon our progress in strengthening public safety,” Franklin said in a statement.
The proposed budget totals nearly $766 million, including $204 million for general government services, the mayor’s office said.
According to Franklin, the proposed budget maintains funding for 220 police officer positions, sustaining fire and emergency medical services, and adding capacity for municipal court and emergency management.
In the statement, Franklin said the budget also continues funding for the City’s alternative response program, which has served more than 2,200 individuals this year and responded to more than 800 active 911 calls without police or EMS.
“I’m proud to bring forward a fiscally responsible budget that protects core services, maintains our reserves, and allows us to make bold investments in Everett’s future,” Franklin said. “At a time when we’re seeing headlines about cities facing significant service reductions and layoffs, it’s particularly noteworthy that we developed a budget for Everett that doesn’t cut services or staff.”