Redmond is a thriving community we are proud to call home. However, our fast-growing city needs additional public safety resources to better protect and serve our families, neighborhoods, and small businesses. Following a robust public engagement process by city and community leaders, Redmond residents made it clear that we want increased law enforcement and fire department staffing, and expansion of mental health programs to serve those in crisis.

To address these needs, Prop. 1 will fund the training and hiring of 17 new firefighters, 12 new police officers, and 6 additional behavioral health experts---with additional resources for our Mobile Integrated Health program. Levy funds will also support the use of body-worn cameras for police officers. 

Together, these investments will reduce emergency response times, better address crime, and enforce traffic safety, and improve peace of mind. Prop. 1 funds cannot be used for other purposes and will be independently audited. 

This levy has broad community support including State Senators Manka Dhingra, Patty Kuderer; State Representatives Larry Springer, Roger Goodman, Vandana Slatter, Amy Whalen; King County Exec. Dow Constantine; Redmond Mayor Angela Birney and Councilmembers; Redmond Firefighters and public safety leaders; and many more!

Submitted by: Tanika Padhye, Roy Captain, LouAnn Ballew, www.yes4redmondsafety.com 

There are three good reasons to vote “No” on this levy!

One:  This is the worst time to increase property taxes!  Redmond’s 2023 property assessments are up 45%, inflation is high; food, gas, and rental costs are rising, and a  recession is threatening.  This levy is an additional tax (around $525 per year, increasing another 5% annually) above the usual property taxes we pay. Furthermore, this new, non-expiring levy would be in addition to the 2007 non-expiring public safety levy. 

Two:  For many years, citizen surveys said people are satisfied and feel safe.  The primary responsibility of local government is public safety. Those services should be funded first with existing monies.  A current financial/operational review reveals the City’s revenue has risen substantially, up year after year.  Though population has gradually increased, data shows demand for public safety per person has not increased. The City can afford public safety without this levy.

Three:  A ”No” vote isn’t a vote against public safety.  It’s a vote demanding that the City always fund public safety first as a top priority. Levies should be for one-time projects or extras.  A “No” vote expects the City to exhaust all possibilities before seeking to increase taxes.  

Submitted by: Rosemarie Ives, Brent Schmaltz, Lisa Tracy, (425) 495-4442

Proposition 1 is an investment in Redmond’s future and safety---with the average homeowner paying around $30/month for additional police, fire, and mental health responders. With the arrival of light rail and continued growth, we must engage in proactive preparation.

Since 2011 Redmond’s population has increased by over 20,000, but caps on city revenue growth fall short for expanding services in our fast-growing community. Vote “Yes” to ensure safety and peace of mind. 

Submitted by: Tanika Padhye, Roy Captain, LouAnn Ballew, www.yes4redmondsafety.com 

If Redmond actually needs improved public safety, allocate more money in the budget.  Fact:  Redmond’s tax base has generated substantially increased annual revenues, including an unexpected, additional $60 million since 2019.  Join your former mayor, community leaders and two councilmembers who don’t support this unnecessary, expensive levy.  City officials should act responsibly, budgeting the ample funds already available.

If public safety is a priority, fund it like one in the upcoming budget.  Vote “No.”

Submitted by: Rosemarie Ives, Brent Schmaltz, Lisa Tracy, (425) 495-4442

Complete text of measure

Simple majority (RCW 84.55.050)

For questions about this measure, contact: Malisa Files, Chief Operating Officer, (425) 556-2166, mfiles@redmond.gov