INVESTING IN A SAFER TACOMA
Tacoma faces a dual challenge: a projected budget shortfall that threatens essential services and an urgent need to modernize our public safety system. We need a dedicated, stable funding source to prevent cuts to 911 response times and to expand the behavioral health services our community has asked for.
The City Council is considering a 0.1% Criminal Justice Sales & Use Tax. This is a dedicated tax authorized by the state (HB 2015) to fund public safety and criminal justice services exclusively.
FAST FACTS
What will it cost me?
- The Cost: 10 cents on a $100 purchase.
- The Rate: Tacoma’s sales tax would adjust slightly from 10.3% to 10.4%.
- The Impact: Essential items like most groceries and prescription drugs are exempt from sales tax, minimizing the impact on low-income families. Additionally, by meeting the regulatory requirements to implement this tax, the City remains competitive for state-level “HB 2015” grants, specifically designed to help cities hire and retain officers and co-responders.
Where does the money go?
This generates approximately $7-$7.5 million annually that is legally restricted to “criminal justice purposes” and could be used to:
- Prevent Service Cuts: Maintain staffing levels for police and fire to ensure rapid 911 response.
- Modernize Response: Fund behavioral health co-responders and diversion programs, ensuring mental health professionals—not just police—respond to crisis calls.
Are we the only ones doing this?
No. We are joining peer cities across Washington that are prioritizing safety.
- Regional Standard: Seattle, Renton, and King County have all recently approved similar measures to close budget gaps and fund safety.
- Statewide Trend: Cities like Spokane Valley and others have moved forward with this funding to protect their communities.
When would this happen?
- Implementation Timeline: First reading of the ordinance is scheduled for December 9, 2025 and second reading is projected to take place on January 6, 2026. If the Council passes the ordinance on January 6, 2026, the tax could arguably go into effect as early as April 1, 2026 (following the state’s required implementation schedule).
- Why Now: Acting now prevents a gap in funding for the upcoming fiscal year, securing our safety services before deficits force reductions.
THE BOTTOM LINE
For pennies on a purchase, we can secure millions for public safety, protect our 911 response times, and fund the mental health services our community needs.