City staff told the Lynnwood City Council on Nov. 10 that the city’s 2025 assessed valuation totaled roughly $10.8 billion, and the current levy amount is $7.2 million (about $0.67 per $1,000 of assessed value), which equates to roughly $424 per average home in the city. Staff explained banked capacity is approximately $3.85 million and that the city must certify its levy to the county by statutory deadlines; council will take final action on Nov. 24.

During the hearing, many residents urged council not to levy the full banked capacity to recover roughly $3.8 million. Longtime commenter Ted Heichel contended recent council decisions and past increases had already put substantial pressure on homeowners and urged council to delay taking the extra levy until the new year so the council can explore alternatives and complete budget reviews. "Don't do it to the people," he told the council, saying additional levy revenue would disproportionately affect homeowners and renters.

Speakers also raised related budget concerns: committee meeting transparency, the distribution of grant opportunities to police versus other departments, proposed cuts to senior services, and how city commitments to the Public Facilities District (PFD) interact with the general fund. Director Meyer answered technical questions about levy calculations, banked capacity, and the legal requirement to hold a public hearing before certification.

Council members asked staff for follow‑up information before any final vote, including per‑capita spending and comparisons with neighboring jurisdictions, questions on how the street maintenance fund is being funded, and clarification on utility rate studies that could affect the city's overall fiscal picture.

Next steps: Council plans further discussion during upcoming work sessions and is scheduled to certify the levy to Snohomish County by Nov. 24. Staff agreed to provide requested comparators and financial clarifications.