The Kirkland City Council on July 3 gave final policy direction regarding two ballot measures: a street improvement and pedestrian safety levy and a parks maintenance, renovation, and enhancement levy. Both of the levies were developed in response to community needs.

The council also authorized the recruitment for members to serve on the “pro” and “con” committees who will be tasked to write statements in support and in opposition of the proposed ballot measures to be included in the voter’s pamphlet.

On July 17, the council will hold two public hearings to consider proposed ordinances needed to formally place the separate measures on the Nov. 6 general election ballot. The hearings will be held during the regular council meeting, which begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Council Chamber, Kirkland City Hall, 123 5th Avenue.

Better street maintenance and repair has been a key finding in the past two community surveys as a top priority for Kirkland residents. The proposed street improvement and pedestrian safety levy would provide much needed funding to repair potholes, repave and enhance arterials and neighborhood streets, provide safety walking and biking routes to schools, and improve pedestrian and driver safety on neighborhood streets.

The ballot measure will propose an ongoing property tax levy of 20 cents per $1,000 of assessed value and would annually generate an estimated $3 million. The estimated annual cost is $71.20 for a home valued at $349,000 (based upon the Kirkland median of assessed value of a single family home).

Citizens came forward to the council last summer to request a parks ballot measure. The proposed parks levy would restore and enhance funding for maintenance and operations and capital projects. Through the efforts of a citizen advisory group, the restoration and enhancement of parks maintenance and operations and the renovation and improvement of several park projects were identified.

The ballot measure will propose an ongoing property tax levy of 16 cents per $1,000 of assessed value and would annually generate an estimated $2.345 million. The estimated annual cost is $55.84 for a home valued at $349,000 (based upon the Kirkland median of assessed value of a single family home).

To watch the July 3 or July 17 council meeting, visit www.kirklandwa.gov and search “Watch City Council Meetings.” To receive council meeting agendas via email, subscribe to “City Council Agendas” at www.kirklandwa.gov/e-bulletins.

Neighborhood and business associations and groups that wish to receive a presentation regarding the proposed ballot measures can contact the City Manager’s Office at (425) 587-3001. Persons interested on being considered to the “pro” and “con” committees can contact the City Clerk’s Office at (425) 587-3190.