YAKIMA, Wash. – The Yakima City Council voted on Thursday to place a measure on the November 4 general election ballot, proposing an increase in the city’s regular property tax levy. If approved by voters, it would raise approximately $6 million in city revenue in 2026.
The council announced plans on Friday to organize committees with up to three community members who must live within the city boundaries of Yakima. These committees will draft statements, to appear in the Yakima County Voter’s Pamphlet, both supporting and opposing the tax increase ballot measure.
Committee members will be appointed at the city council’s regular meeting at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, August 4.
The work of these committees will be independent of the city. Members will also draft rebuttals to opposing statements.
Initial statements are due by August 12, with rebuttals due by August 15.
Interested residents can apply to join a committee by submitting applications online, in person at Yakima City Hall, or by emailing city.council@yakima.gov. The application deadline is 12 p.m. on Thursday, July 31.
