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Sequim staff prepares TIF package for state review; some councilors question timing
Summary
City staff and consultant Bob Stowe reviewed a draft tax‑increment financing (TIF) analysis and task timeline; staff said the package will be submitted to the state treasurer in mid‑February and that the law requires two separate public briefings. One councilor said the timing is not right for Sequim to pursue TIF now.
City staff and consultant Bob Stowe briefed the Sequim City Council on Jan. 27 about a draft tax‑increment financing (TIF) analysis and the steps required under state law to establish a TIF area.
City Manager Matt said the draft report and timeline separate the work into two phases: an initial viability review and a second phase that includes statutory submissions and public briefings. Stowe, who participated remotely, told council the legislation requires two public briefings "not part of a city council meeting" so the public has dedicated opportunities to hear and ask questions about a TIF proposal.
Staff said they plan to submit the TIF analysis to the Office of the State Treasurer on Feb. 19 for a 90‑day review window. The packet described county and local outreach steps, notification to taxing districts, and a scheduled period for state review and follow up. Staff also said only Fire District 3 had reached out with questions at the point of the meeting, and that staff planned a pre‑meeting with fire officials.
Council discussion included procedural and timing concerns. One councilor said the city should not pursue TIF until other municipal priorities are more firmly addressed and did not express support for moving forward at that time. Staff said it would prepare additional educational materials, host the required briefings, and return with further input after the state review period.
No formal council vote or ordinance was adopted at the meeting; staff will proceed with the administrative submission and schedule the statutorily required briefings and notices.
