Seattle Mayor Proposes $9.1 Billion Budget Without New Taxes

Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson has proposed a $9.1 billion budget for the 2027-2028 biennium that avoids new tax increases. The plan seeks to close projected general fund deficits of $175 million in 2027 and $150 million in 2028 through $90 million in spending reductions, updated revenue forecasts, and fund transfers.

Public safety is a central pillar of the proposal, with the Seattle Police Department receiving a $68 million net increase to fund 1,250 officer positions. The budget also allocates $500 million for affordable housing and homelessness services, including a goal of 960 to 1,000 new shelter beds by the end of 2027. For the first time, the city will use JumpStart payroll tax funds directly to finance homeless services.

To balance the budget, the proposal eliminates 128 full-time positions, although 113 of those roles are currently vacant. Council Budget Chair Dan Strauss expressed concern over these cuts, stating that he only sees reductions in the budget and questioning the alignment of this approach with the mayor's previous record. The Seattle City Council begins its review of the budget on September 24, with a public hearing scheduled for October 6.