Kirkland has proposed a levy lid lift to expand aquatics, recreation, and parks facilities, operations, and programs. If approved, Kirkland’s regular property tax levy would increase by approximately $0.28054/$1,000 of assessed valuation (AV) to a maximum total rate of $1.38386/$1,000 AV, generating approximately $10,800,000 for these purposes in 2024. Ordinance O-4857 commits Kirkland to collect only what is needed for these investments. This incremental increase is ongoing after 2024 to fund the expanded parks programs and services described below.
As described in Ordinance O-4857, Kirkland would construct a new 86,000-square-foot aquatic and recreation center with warm water and lap pools, two gyms, classrooms, fitness rooms, and community spaces at Houghton Park & Ride off I-405 at NE 70th Place. Construction would be funded separately by the City. Ballot measure revenue would fund operations and programming at the center.
This measure would also provide the following enhancements and annual operations: 9 year-round restrooms; park safety and security including additional park rangers and automatic gates; new sport courts including pickleball and volleyball; expanded beach lifeguard hours; new water safety programs; Kirkland Teen Union Building services, programs, and classes; green loop trail networks; and park and recreation operations, maintenance, and improvements. These investments were selected based on community input from the PROS Plan, Parks Funding Exploratory Committee, Park Board, and Kirkland Youth Council.
The cost to a 2024 median-valued home (estimated $1,000,000) is about $280/year. Estimate your cost: King County Assessor’s Taxpayer Transparency Tool: www.kingcounty.gov/assessor. Qualifying seniors, disabled veterans, and others are exempt.