Council approves 1% levy increase amid debate over long-term funding
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Summary
Battle Ground lawmakers voted 5–2 to adopt ordinance 2025-19, authorizing a 1% increase to the property tax levy base. Council discussion focused on levy-rate mechanics, need for future lid lifts and the state's share of property tax revenue.
The Battle Ground City Council on Nov. 17 adopted ordinance 2025-19, a 1% increase to the 2026 property-tax levy base, by a 5–2 roll-call vote. The ordinance was presented as a modest increase within state limits intended to maintain fiscal capacity as construction and assessed values change.
Finance staff explained how the levy rate is calculated, noted an estimated assessed value of $4,700,000,000 and said taking the 1% increase would adjust the levy rate and yield approximately $43,000 to the budget base. Staff cautioned the lift is small relative to total general fund needs and will not by itself fund major positions.
Council members debated the merits of the 1% lift. Some said it delays the need for a larger, voter-approved "lid lift" and helps avoid structural deficits; others argued it provides only modest relief given inflation and growing service needs. One councilmember criticized state revenue distribution, noting an outsized share of property tax revenue flows to other jurisdictions and urging state action to return more funds to cities.
The ordinance passed by roll-call vote (yes: Kuipers, DeRozier, Overholser, Deputy Mayor Bowman, Mayor McCoy; no: Davis, Ferrer). The council directed staff to reflect the levy decision in the final 2026 budget and to continue discussing long-term funding strategies, including potential future ballot measures.
