They are at it again. Vote “no” on Port of Poulsbo’s annexation.

This is not about citizens’ participation; it’s taking more property rights and money from you.

If passed:

The port will impose more tax levies on your property; this is over and above those levied by city, state, county, schools, state, etc..

The port may generate Local Development Improvement District assessments on your property.

It would add another governmental entity to pay for.

It would add many new port powers as described in RCW Title 53. Read for yourselves on http://apps.leg.wa.gov/rcw/default.aspx?cite=53.

Facts about the port annexation and my comment:

— Will increase the Port District by 2,262 residences, allowing for greater citizen input. More control and less property rights.

— Will increase tax revenues for the Port District by approximately $147,000. For this year, until they want more money.

— Will increase taxes for the average household in the proposed enlargement area by approximately $65. At the start, 31 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation that will rise.

— Will enable the Port District to finance critical projects, such as replacement of the breakwater, protecting the downtown shoreline. It will not stop there. More future projects and more taxes.

— Will not impose additional regulations on district residents. Maybe for now, but they have the power to impose more. Read the RCW Title 53 noted above.

Vote no” to preserve property rights.

Jim Almond
Poulsbo