Escalating size of Seattle levies is impacting affordability and straining levy capacity 

Today Councilmember Maritza Rivera (District 4) released this statement on the proposed 2026 Library Levy following yesterday’s public hearing on the levy.

“We love our libraries. That is why the proposed Library Levy renewal is 50% more than the current levy. And that is on top of what was added for inflation.   

“Adding to this Library proposal places more of a burden on Seattle residents and will push us even closer to the City’s levy cap. Any increases to this package will diminish our capacity to address other needs through upcoming levies. This is of concern. We have a renewal of the Housing levy coming in four years, for instance, and what we ask for now will deeply impact what we can ask for then. That is the reality we are faced with.  

“It is our job to be judicious and fiscally responsible to the taxpayers, and I take that seriously.”  

Additional information on the levy, including meeting dates, background information, and next steps can be found on the City Council Library Levy webpage.  

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