Washington state faces a growing budget deficit, estimated at $10–$12 billion over the next four years. With an operating budget of around $72 billion for the current biennium, this deficit represents a significant gap of approximately 7%. To address this, lawmakers in Olympia are considering new
Small Business Booming in Seattle (especially in U-District)
UPDATE NOV 2024: The information provided about Seattle's business landscape in 2023 remains relevant in 2024, albeit with some nuances. While the pandemic's immediate impact has lessened, its long-term effects, such as the rise of remote work and the shift towards digitalization, continue to shape
Seattle’s New Capital Gains Tax and the Implications for Real Estate
Seattle's housing and homelessness crisis continues to escalate, prompting bold action from city officials. In a recent announcement, City Council member Cathy Moore proposed a new city-level capital gains tax to bolster housing and food assistance programs. This move is aimed at addressing a
Seattle Votes on Record-Breaking Transportation Levy
Seattle residents will vote on a $1.55 billion transportation levy on November 5th. If passed, this would be the largest levy in the city's history. The levy, supported by Mayor Bruce Harrell and approved by the City Council, aims to fund various transportation projects, including safety
EV Tax Credit: A Green Light for Electric Vehicles
The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is gaining momentum, and the recent passage of the Inflation Reduction Act has provided a significant boost. This landmark legislation includes provisions to extend and expand the federal EV tax credit, making it easier for consumers to transition to electric
Seattle’s Sweet Success: Could a Soda Tax Fund Your Child’s Education?
Remember the uproar in 2017 when Seattle passed a tax on sugary drinks? Critics predicted economic doom and gloom for small businesses, while others questioned the effectiveness of such a measure. Fast forward to today, and the story is taking a surprising turn – one that could have a significant
Seattle Eying Delivery App Fees, Not A Food Levy
Confusion has gripped Seattle residents in recent weeks, fueled by rumors circulating online about a proposed tax on groceries. The culprit? An email allegedly from Instacart, the popular grocery delivery service, warning customers about the new levy. But fear not, Seattleites, your pantries are
Seattle’s Tax Burden Soars, But City Struggles to Address Urgent Concerns
The Downtown Seattle Association (DSA) is raising concerns about the city's escalating tax rates and its failure to address critical issues facing residents. A recent study commissioned by the DSA revealed that Seattle's general fund and operating fund taxes have skyrocketed at an alarming rate,