Lynden council adopts 5% admissions tax, effective April 1
Summary
The Lynden City Council approved ORD‑26‑1725 to impose a 5% admissions tax, estimated to raise about $100,000 annually for the general fund, with exemptions for K‑12 events and small nonprofits; the tax takes effect April 1, 2026.
The Lynden City Council on Jan. 20 voted 7‑0 to adopt ORD‑26‑1725, creating Section 3.29 of the Lynden Municipal Code to impose a 5% admissions tax beginning April 1, 2026. Councilor Kyle Strengholt moved and Councilor Lee Beld seconded the ordinance, which the council amended in section 3.29.030(C) before approving it and authorizing the mayor to sign.
City staff estimated the tax would generate approximately $100,000 a year for the general fund. The ordinance includes exemptions for activities and sports put on by elementary and secondary schools, charities and nonprofits when there are no compensated performers or operators, and organizations whose annual admissions total less than $2,500 (or $125 in tax). The ordinance cites RCW 35.21.280 as authority for local admissions taxes.
The council did not record any roll‑call dissents; all seven councilors present voted in favor. Implementation details, collection procedures and administration will follow through the Finance Department before the April 1 effective date.
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