Statement For · For Committee for City of Liberty Lake Public Safety Sales Tax Ballot Measure
statement likely AICommittee: For Committee for City of Liberty Lake Public Safety Sales Tax Ballot Measure
Liberty Lake is growing, and public safety must grow with it. More residents, businesses, traffic, and activity create greater demands on the police and public safety services we rely on. Maintaining the high level of service our community expects requires adequate staffing, equipment, technology, and resources to respond quickly and effectively when they are needed most. Public safety operating costs have increased significantly over the past four years. While growth in existing sales tax revenue has helped meet these needs, relying on the City’s general fund alone is not a sustainable long-term solution. Without a dedicated funding source, rising public safety costs will compete with other essential City services for limited resources. Planning today avoids more difficult budget choices tomorrow. This proposition provides a dedicated, reliable source of funding for public safety and criminal justice services. The proposed one-tenth of one percent sales tax equals just 10 cents on a $100 taxable purchase. Everyone who makes taxable purchases in Liberty Lake contributes–including visitors and shoppers–not just our homeowners. Dedicated funding helps ensure officers have the personnel, equipment, and technology needed to maintain the level of service our growing community deserves. Public safety consistently ranks among Liberty Lake’s highest priorities. This measure reflects responsible financial stewardship by providing a sustainable funding source that strengthens emergency response capabilities while protecting other essential City services. Vote YES to preserve high level of public safety that defines Liberty Lake and keep our community safe, strong, and prepared for the future.