During a recent city council meeting, members engaged in a heated discussion regarding a proposed 3% increase in property taxes, with concerns raised about the affordability of housing in the community. Council member Jones expressed strong opposition to the tax hike, arguing that it would further burden residents already struggling to afford their homes. Jones questioned the council's stance on the increase and sought clarity on whether supporting the proposal would imply endorsement of the tax hike.

Council member Shane acknowledged the complexity of the issue, suggesting that further discussion in a workshop setting might be beneficial to fully understand the implications of the proposed tax increase. He emphasized the importance of concise communication and appreciated the materials provided for the meeting.

Council member Witten pointed out that while the city is a member of the Association of Washington Cities (AWC), it does not necessarily have to align with every agenda item they support, particularly if it conflicts with local priorities. City staff clarified that decisions should be made based on the best interests of the community, regardless of AWC's position.

The council also discussed the potential impact of a proposed cap on property taxes, noting that even if the cap were raised, any actual tax increase would still require council approval. Some members expressed skepticism about the likelihood of the council approving such an increase, while others acknowledged that different cities might have varying needs for additional revenue.

In addition to the tax discussion, the council addressed funding for public defense standards, with city attorney Kinsley explaining the challenges of meeting new requirements without adequate funding or resources. The council plans to submit comments advocating for necessary funding to support public defense, emphasizing the need for legislative action to address these issues.

The meeting concluded with a motion to approve a resolution related to the discussions, which passed unanimously, indicating a collaborative effort among council members to navigate these complex financial and legislative matters.