Council moves multifamily tax-exemption rules into revenue code chapter as first step to implement MFTE program

The Pierce County Council on Aug. 26 adopted Ordinance O2025-525, recodifying the county’s Multifamily Tax Exemption (MFTE) chapter from Title 18A (development regulations) to Title 4 (revenue and finance). Council staff said the MFTE program, originally adopted in 2013 and recodified previously, is a tax incentive program that does not impose development regulations. The ordinance relocates the chapter (previously PCC 18A.68) to chapter 4.64.06 in the revenue code for clarity; it does not change eligibility, program mechanics or incentives. Councilmembers were reminded that separate steps remain to designate residential targeted areas and to adopt any implementing rules; recodification is an administrative housekeeping step that enables subsequent program implementation. The ordinance received a due-pass recommendation from the Rules and Operations Committee and was adopted by roll-call vote, 7-0. Public testimony during the item included concern about parking, infrastructure and impacts of higher-density housing in unincorporated areas; a commenter urged caution about using incentives before infrastructure and services are in place. Council members noted that further hearings and steps will be required before MFTE area designations or developer applications are acted upon.