Seattle City Council proposes $4.1M amendment for youth environmental learning programs

In a recent Seattle City Council meeting, discussions centered around the proposed amendments to the Families, Education, Preschool & Promise (FEPP) Levy, highlighting a significant push for environmental learning programs aimed at youth and families. The proposed amendment seeks to add $679,000 annually, totaling $4.1 million, to the expected revenues generated by the levy. This funding is crucial as it aims to restore cuts to Seattle Parks and Recreation's environmental learning program, which is facing a proposed reduction of $1.09 million in 2026, potentially eliminating nine positions.

The amendment not only aims to restore these positions but also to create a new environmental learning program focused on youth. Council members emphasized the importance of these initiatives, noting that Seattle's unique access to natural environments is a defining feature of the city. A recent poll by the Seattle Chamber of Commerce revealed that nearly half of the respondents believe the city's connection to nature is its greatest asset.

To fund these enhancements, the estimated additional tax rate would be two-tenths of a cent per thousand dollars of assessed property value, translating to an average annual tax burden of approximately $2.13 for homeowners with a median property value of $1.1 million. While the amendment proposes a nominal increase in the tax rate, it signals the council's intent to prioritize environmental education without binding future funding decisions.

As the council prepares for further deliberations, the final version of the bill will reconcile any additional amendments, ensuring that the funding aligns with the community's educational support needs. The discussions reflect a broader commitment to integrating environmental learning into the educational framework, fostering a deeper connection between Seattle's youth and their natural surroundings.