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Edmonds council lays out service cuts if voters do not approve tax increase
Summary
Council reviewed a draft resolution and three budget scenarios showing how a $6 million revenue shortfall would affect city services, and directed staff to return with a final resolution. Mayor and staff also presented alternative revenue options and a recommended levy goal for further discussion.
The Edmonds City Council on June 3 reviewed a draft resolution summarizing the operational impacts the city would face if property-tax revenue is $6 million less than budgeted for 2026 and directed the city attorney to return a final version for adoption.
City staff and elected officials portrayed the resolution as a transparency measure, not a final budget decision. The administration outlined three scenarios: the adopted 2026 budget assuming added property-tax revenue (scenario 1); a service-restoration scenario based on additional revenues and new programs (scenario 2); and a “no levy” scenario listing cuts the city would implement if a future levy fails (scenario 3). Council voted to have the final resolution return on a consent calendar for a future meeting.
Why it matters: Council members said residents should understand concretely what services could be reduced or eliminated if the city does not secure additional recurring revenue. Staff and council repeatedly described the proposals as painful and long-lasting, noting that reductions to staffing or programs can take years to reverse.
Staff told the council the adopted 2026 budget assumes roughly $6 million…
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