Airway Heights proposing property tax increase to support police department

AIRWAY HEIGHTS, Wash. - The City of Airway Heights is proposing a property tax hike to support its police department, marking the first request in its history.

The levy will be included on the primary election ballot next month. According to the police department, call volumes have surged by 133% over the past five years. Police Chief Bradley Richmond says the department does not have enough staff to keep up with the demand.

The Airway Heights City Council plans to present voters with a proposal for a property tax of $1 per $1,000 in assessed value. For the average homeowner, this would translate to approximately $25 per month.

"If we look at Airway Heights in general, we're the lowest in terms of property tax in the area compared to all of the other communities. We need that investment to at least match our regional partners in support of city services," Chief Richmond added.

Chief Richmond highlighted that the department currently prioritizes 911 calls, often being forced to leave calls related to theft and vandalism delayed.

The department is seeking the levy lid lift to finance new patrol cars, additional officers, and increased resources to combat a growing fentanyl trafficking problem.

Richmond emphasized that addressing the fentanyl crisis could have broader benefits in reducing other crimes in Airway Heights.

"Serve and protect is the motto on the back of our cars. We want to serve our community to the best of our ability, but we can't do that with our current resources in place," said Chief Richmond.

Tonight, Airway Heights residents are encouraged to attend a public meeting with the police chief and city manager at 5 p.m. at The Hub. The meeting aims to address any questions or concerns about the proposed levy.

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