The King County Assessors Office is letting property owners know early their tax bills will increase in 2016 because of initiatives approved by voters.
The money coming from the tax increase will fund early childhood development, emergency services and transportation, according to a press release from the assessor’s office.
The majority of property tax revenue, almost 53 percent will pay for schools. While property taxes vary depending upon location, they went up 9.35 percent at the aggregate level. Taxes were higher in some Seattle neighborhoods, while Northeastern and Southeastern King County saw a smaller increase.
The city of Covington saw a 3.8 percent increase, Maple Valley a 3.7 percent increase and Black Diamond has a 4.6 percent increase.
County-wide property tax billings will be 4.5 billion this year, compared to 4.1 billion in 2015. The property taxes are the primary funding source for schools, public safety, parks and libraries.
According to the press release, new levies were also approved in 2015 including:
• Best Starts for Kids funds prevention and early intervention services to improve the health and well-being of children, youth and families across the county.
• The Puget Sound Emergency Radio Network to provide local emergency responders with more modern and reliable communication tools.
• The Move Seattle Levy, which funds road maintenance, improving transit service, rehabilitating bridges, and making our sidewalks, streets and other structures safer.
“In 2015, King County voters spoke loud and clear about their desire to invest in high quality services around the region,” King County Assessor John Wilson wrote in the press release. “King County voters have again shown true generosity in their willingness to invest in children and ensure our first responders have the tools they need to protect themselves and the public.”
About 19 cents of every property tax dollars supports services provided by King County government, while 18 cents goes to local cities.
“Thanks to voters, we are able to deliver more services to improve the health, safety and mobility of our region,” said King County Executive Dow Constantine in a press release. “Local and countywide voter-approved initiatives will deliver better outcomes for our community.”
The King County property tax bills were mailed on Feb. 12. To avoid interest and penalties, the first half of property taxes must be paid or postmarked by May 2nd. The second half of property taxes must be paid or postmarked by Oct. 31.
For more information on tax levy rates and more property related information, visit eReal Property Search on the King County Assessor’s website or by calling 206-296-7300.
