Letter to the Editor: the high quality of Shoreline is now in jeopardy

To the Editor:

The city of Shoreline has arrived at a crossroads. The status quo is no longer available and we voters will make the decision as to which road to take when we vote on Proposition 1.

Since incorporation our city has made great strides and has become a great place to live and have a family. It has been recognized locally and nationally as one of the best cities in which to live. This did not just happen. It is the result of a lot of hard work and good decisions by the involved citizens, our city councils, the city staff and a lot of volunteerism. The high quality of Shoreline is now in jeopardy.

In 2001 Initiative I-747 was passed state-wide but did not pass in the City of Shoreline. Because of this initiative Shoreline has not been able to increase revenue sufficiently to keep up with inflation. Even though Shoreline is one of the most efficient cities in the region, it can no longer maintain the high level of service with its limited revenue.

Proposition 1 gives us the opportunity to permit the City of Shoreline to increase the property tax.

We voters have the following two choices:

1. We can vote yes which would increase the City's property tax at an estimated average household monthly cost of $7.60 next year and maintain the City's basic services.

2. Vote no, do not approve the requested increase of revenue, and have deep cuts in basic services.

My wife and I have lived in Shoreline for 52 years. We have seen it grow into the high quality city it has become. It would be a shame for Shoreline to regress from its current high standards, and I therefore, support proposition 1.

I urge you to give this matter your serious consideration because the outcome of Proposition 1 will have serious ramifications as to the future quality of Shoreline. Check these websites for further information: Support Shoreline and City of Shoreline.

Dale Wright

Shoreline