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Council split over process, data and timing for proposed Snoqualmie levy
Summary
Council members praised staff work but sharply disagreed about the timeline, the need for more granular budget data, and whether to present the levy to voters in November.
Council members at the Aug. 3 special meeting expressed a mix of support for maintaining services and frustration with the pace and framing of the levy proposal.
Several members — including Tessman, Murphy and Wotton — said 21 days was insufficient to vet alternatives and to present clear, consistent numbers to residents. Murphy noted there were three different gap figures cited in recent materials; "understanding which gap we're talking about" was framed as a fundamental question. Tessman urged that council priorities be used to guide budget choices rather than rushing to a single 10-year continuous increase structure.
Other members emphasized the need to avoid "hatchet" cuts and instead work with department heads to identify thoughtful reductions if the levy is not pursued. Several councilors urged the administration to return with a balanced budget and to lead more public engagement before any future ballot measure.
