What's Happening in Lacey, WA…

Lacey, Washington, voters will soon decide whether or not to increase their local sales tax.

If Proposition 1 is approved, the city will raise sales tax from 8.7% to 8.9%. The money will be used to fund Lacey's Transportation Benefit District, which will then pay to maintain sidewalks and roads. It is thought the increase will provide between $1.6m and $1.8 m yearly for the next decade. If the increase passes, it will take effect July 1, 2017.

At the moment, the city's roads are in good condition, earning an 85 out of a possible 100 points when considered using a pavement condition index. According to the index, roads in the very best condition are awarded 100 points, but anything below 50 is considered failing and needs extensive work.

Lacey's roads have been well-maintained, and are estimated to be worth $400m. Despite the fact the network is highly rated now, if maintenance is deferred or not done, the index can drop approximately one point per year. This means that roads get to the point where they cannot be repaired, only replaced - a procedure that costs about three times what it does to keep them in shape in the first place. City officials believe it's more sensible to maintain the roads than have to replace them.

Lacey residents can vote by mail, and the date to return mail-in ballots is Tuesday, February 14.

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