Select Committee on the Library Levy
The Seattle City Council's Select Committee on the Library Levy convened to hear presentations on Mayor Wilson's $410 million library levy proposal, which would appear on the August 4, 2026 ballot. The proposal represents an 87% increase over the expiring $219 million 2019 levy, reflecting both inflation adjustments and expanded services. During nearly three hours of testimony and deliberation, committee members heard from eleven public commenters who unanimously supported the library system while some urged higher investment levels. Chair Maritza Rivera opened by acknowledging Seattle's affordability challenges and the city's approaching property tax capacity limits, stating the committee must balance strong library support with fiscal responsibility. The mayor's presentation emphasized that 90% of surveyed residents value the library system, while Central Staff warned that Seattle is approaching critical levy capacity constraints that could limit future tax ability. The proposal allocates $218.4 million for hours and access, $58.5 million for collections, $85.9 million for building maintenance, $38.2 million for technology, and $9 million for administration. Key expansions include $12.6 million for additional programming, $7.7 million for enhanced security, $10 million for deferred maintenance, and $4.6 million for expanded collections.
The committee took no formal votes, conducting briefings and discussion only on Council Bill 121181. The bill would authorize a seven-year property tax levy exceeding statutory limits, requiring simple majority voter approval on August 4, 2026. The proposed levy would generate approximately $58.6 million annually, with a tax rate of 19 cent…
**March 31, 2026:** Amendment review meeting at 9:30 AM, with deadline for amendments by end of day March 26 to allow proper review and distribution. **April 2, 2026:** Public hearing at 5:30 PM for additional community input on the levy proposal. **April 8, 2026:** Final committee vote scheduled, with possible amendments and final recommendation to full Council. **Apr…