Election 2014: Seattle Park District, North Highline Fire District ballot measures passing

While thousands partied in the streets for just-concluded Night Out 2014, the first round of election results came in. Seattle Proposition 1, to create a Park District, is passing, 52.4 percent to 47.6 percent:

Only a simple majority is needed for passage. Next door in North Highline (White Center and vicinity), the NH Fire District “benefit charge” measure is passing, 69.8 percent to 31.2 percent – this requires 60 percent approval. Here’s the full list of election results from around King County; next ballot count will be out ~4:30 pm tomorrow.

Dave August 6, 2014 (10:18 am)

Well, watch how fast the millage rate goes from .33 to 3.33 and then you get a 250K city employ to manage the parks who then gets a 100k raise to be at industry standard and….

I love the parks, but this will be a money trough to feed at by those politically connected.

WSince86 August 6, 2014 (10:54 am)

West Seattle since ’86 and leaving in 2017. Counting down the time until we can escape the ever expanding tax burden and ever shrinking spaces to live. We (used to) love it here, but this is getting rediculous.

Tony S August 6, 2014 (11:35 am)

Talk to your neighbors; they’re the ones that saw fit to pass this monstrosity. I’m a huge parks supporter, but the lunacy of giving them what amounts to an open checkbook with no public oversight is astounding. I know Seattle voters are notoriously friendly to tax increases for good causes (I’ve often voted for them). But to vote in a mandate that would be irrevocable is really irresponsible.

Person August 6, 2014 (12:01 pm)

I know many otherwise intelligent, progressive people who vote strictly by what The Stranger tells them to. The Stranger was for this monstrosity.

They also fell for the idea that a vote no maeans you are against parks.

Ugh. Seattle voters!

WSEA August 6, 2014 (12:18 pm)

Those financially inept do not realize the changes that will occur to other tax revenue due to this increase. I’ve already seen many neighbors and friends reduce spending to compensate for tax increases. I.e. drive less (gas tax), shop online (no sales tax, which should be claimed at year end), try to get property value assessment reduced, sale extra car (car tab reduction), less youth sports sign ups (some are non-profits and collect sales tax),etc..

I’m not saying the park initiative is bad or good but an increase in tax may be offset with decreases in other areas. I too will be looking for decreases since the property value will likely go up presenting a double increase next year. At least I will have a nice park to hang out in instead of spending money on dinner or entertainment.