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HomeMy WebLinkAboutImplement Affordable Housing Sales Tax DocuSign Envelope ID:A81D B6ADA-FOB E-47A4-AC9C-FA457187 DC72 PORTANGELES 321 East Fifth Street WASH I NGTON , U . S . Port Angeles, WA 98362 March 30, 2022 Clallam County Commissioners 223 E 4h St, 94 Port Angeles, WA 98362 Via Email: Commissioner Mark Ozias: i')Io igs 1 a u I Z (g�co.cIaIku')-.w-. ,s .......................... .............................................................. Commissioner Randy Johnson: r phr s ri(rdr ..... ..l.. .. .r,w.............. Commissioner Bill Peach: b Dear Commissioners: Clallam County has an affordable housing crisis. HB 1590 was enacted by the Washington state Legislature and the bill authorizes cities and counties to impose a sales and use tax up to 1/10'of 1% for affordable housing. The City of Port Angeles has already passed this tax. The City has already seen results from implementing the 1/10'of 1% sales tax for affordable housing. Pro]ects within the City have included construction of affordable housing, construction of mental and behavioral health-related facilities, funding the operations and maintenance costs of new affordable housing units and facilities where housing-related programs are provided for those who have met the income requirements, to include persons with behavioral health disabilities,veterans, senior citizens, homeless, or at-risk homeless, families with children,persons with disabilities and domestic violence survivors. We understand the tax by itself will only solve a small portion of the problem. However, if this funding source is coupled with other funding including 1406, ARPA, Opportunity Fund, and matched with State funds such as the Housing Trust Fund,real progress can be made on this issue. The City looks forward to a favorable outcome at the Clallam County Public Hearing on this matter held April 5,2022. The City partners with you in working to alleviate homelessness in the community. We offer our support and look forward to working together to improve and increase affordable housing within Clallam County. Sincerely, Eta/9 'DouuSigneud by: '409 Mayor