The city is preparing a $1.3 billion renewal of its early learning levy for the November ballot. A Seattle City Council committee heard an update on the proposal Thursday as it works to finalize legislation to put the decision on the levy to voters.

The first seven-year, $69.2 million levy, commonly known as the Families and Education Levy, was approved in November 1990 with support from 56% of the voters, the city says. A $619 million update was passed by voters in 2018. The proposal being lined up for consideration next would grow the program significantly with a planned $1.3 billion program over six years funded by a tax of $0.61 per $1,000 assessed value on property in the city. Continue reading →