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Shelton staff warn street-fund gap; council weighs 0.1% TBD increase or service reductions
Summary
Public works reported a pavement condition index (PCI) uptick to 72 but warned the city needs ~ $2 million a year to sustain the network; staff presented three funding scenarios and councilors debated putting a 0.1% TBD increase before voters vs delaying to avoid tax fatigue.
Shelton — City public‑works staff told the council on Nov. 25 that the city’s pavement condition index (PCI) improved to roughly 72 after recent projects but that sustaining and improving that level will require more recurring revenue than the street fund currently produces.
Staff said Shelton manages about 79 lane miles and has used the transportation benefit district (TBD), REET transfers and grants to extend local funds. The presentation showed three budget scenarios: (1) retain current revenue including an added 0.1% TBD increase to maintain services and projects; (2) remove that 0.1% TBD increase, creating deficits by about 2028; and (3) reduce REET and general‑fund transfers, which produces earlier deficits. Presenter Mark/Staff (Speaker 7) said, "We need about $2,000,000 a year" to keep pace with preventative maintenance needs.
Why it matters: Presenter materials and council discussion emphasised lifecycle pavement treatment — crack sealing, chip seals and overlays — and warned that delaying maintenance can produce far costlier full reconstructions. Staff noted that without ~ $2 million annually the PCI will decline to roughly 61 within six years, substantially increasing future rehabilitation costs.
Council discussion and tradeoffs: Councilors debated whether to pursue a 0.1% TBD increase through a ballot measure (options discussed included August and February timelines) or to delay because many constituents have recently faced other tax increases. One councilor said the delay costs revenue: "Every month we wait is $30,000 we're not getting," reflecting urgency among members who favour prompt action. Others urged waiting until near‑term revenue patterns are clearer to avoid overtaxing residents.
Next steps: Council asked staff to verify election deadlines and to return with a timeline and a draft ordinance if the council wishes to place the TBD increase before voters. Staff also noted prioritization guidance (arterials first, then collectors and local roads) and the need to continue pursuing grant matches for large projects.
The presentation included maps and project lists that staff said will guide prioritized maintenance; the council did not take a final vote at the study session.
