Evergreen Health Proposes Levy Lift To Enhance Kirkland Healthcare Services

The Kirkland City Council convened on July 15, 2025, to discuss a proposed resolution supporting Proposition 1, a levy lift for Evergreen Health, aimed at enhancing healthcare services in the community. The meeting began with a presentation by Chris Bredesen, Chief Operating Officer of Evergreen Health, who emphasized the hospital's commitment to advancing community health and the need for increased funding to maintain independence and improve services.

Bredesen outlined the hospital's achievements, including delivering over 4,500 babies annually and providing extensive home health and hospice services. He highlighted the financial challenges facing hospitals statewide, noting significant losses in recent years and the potential impact of federal legislation on Medicaid funding. He expressed concern that without the levy lift, Evergreen Health's ability to remain independent could be jeopardized, as many hospitals merge under financial pressure.

The proposed levy would increase the current rate from 14 cents to 50 cents per thousand dollars of assessed property value, a change Bredesen argued is necessary to meet the growing healthcare demands of the community, which has expanded from serving 22,000 to 330,000 residents since the hospital's opening in 1972.

During the public comment period, several community members voiced their support for the resolution, citing the importance of accessible healthcare and the need for expanded services. Amy Johnson, a local resident and healthcare worker, stressed the necessity of protecting public hospitals to ensure community health. Other speakers echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the challenges of accessing timely medical care.

Conversely, one speaker opposed the levy, questioning the need for increased taxes and suggesting that wealthier corporations should contribute more to healthcare funding.

Council members expressed their support for the resolution, recognizing Evergreen Health as a vital asset to the community. They acknowledged the financial strains on healthcare providers and the importance of maintaining quality care for residents.

The council concluded the meeting by encouraging further discussion on the proposed levy, which will be on the ballot for the upcoming election on August 5. The outcome of this vote will significantly impact the future of healthcare services in Kirkland.