In response to the request of citizens, Bothell City Council passed a resolution placing a new annexation proposal on the April 17, 2012 ballot. This new plan for the proposed North East and West of Bothell Annexation (NEWBA) addresses key community concerns raised during last fall’s vote.
How will the annexation lower taxes?
Annexation will reduce taxes for NEWBA residents because two taxes they currently pay – fire district taxes and county road district taxes – would be replaced by a lower City tax which pays for high quality city services. Bothell does collect utility taxes, which the County does not yet have the authority to do, but for the average household in Bothell’s growth area, the combination of property and utility taxes would still be lower in the City than under Snohomish County jurisdiction. Download the handout. More information.
How will fire and emergency medical response be affected?
The City has committed to bolster services by staffing Station 22, on Damson Road, with firefighter/paramedics. This is in addition to the existing fire fighter and paramedic services provided by the acclaimed King County Medic One system. The City has also committed to keeping Fire Station 22 open for at least 5 years.
Read more about Fire and Police services.
What services will residents receive?
Under Snohomish County jurisdiction, NEWBA residents’ tax dollars can be spent anywhere in the county and decisions are made in Everett. Joining the City of Bothell would provide NEWBA residents with high-quality, dedicated city services including: fire, police and emergency response; clean water; maintained streets, parks and other facilities; and recreational programs. Joining Bothell means NEWBA residents have control over their tax dollars and can decide what kind of community they want to live in.
The election culminates a multi-year process to explore the feasibility of, and public support for, annexation to Bothell. This process started with a citizen petition of over 1,000 residents to annex. If approved by voters, the annexation would take effect on December 31, 2012.
The Snohomish County Boundary Review Board examined the proposed annexation and found it to meet all requirements under state law. A series of handouts have been developed to answer common questions about annexation. Copies are available at Bothell City Hall and can be downloaded at the left.
Read the press release.