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Council signals intent to request full 2026 property tax levy amid rising contract costs
Summary
During a brief public hearing with no public comment, the council agreed with Mayor Howes’ recommendation to request the full allowable 2026 property tax levy given rising contract costs and economic uncertainty; Clerk/Treasurer Spens will prepare levy legislation for next month.
The Beaux Arts Village Town Council opened and closed a public hearing on the 2026 preliminary budget on Oct. 14, 2025 (no public comment). Clerk/Treasurer Sue Ann Spens framed the discussion around the town’s anticipated revenues, calling particular attention to the 2026 property tax levy.
Mayor Aletha Howes said the Town has deferred levy increases several times and, because contract service costs are rising and the economy could soften, she recommended requesting the full levy amount available; the Council agreed. Clerk/Treasurer Spens said she will prepare a levy ordinance for council consideration next month. Spens also noted that Washington State recently expanded the list of services subject to sales tax; she will review the new law and inform villagers in the next newsletter and asked residents to use Beaux Arts and their zip+4 in return addresses so the Town receives appropriate sales tax attribution.
