Nehring to Freeze Snohomish County Taxes With $30 Million Cuts

Councilmember Nate Nehring announced a budget proposal on October 26 that would hold Snohomish County property taxes flat for the 2027-28 fiscal year. The plan counters a draft from the County Executive that adds nearly $30 million in new property tax levies. That increase sits on top of the $363 million residents already pay annually for county government services.

Nehring’s alternative budget cuts more than $30 million in spending to balance the books without raising the tax rate. He stated that the reduction would come from trimming travel and administrative costs for elected officials. The plan also eliminates two non-essential county offices.

The proposal rejects new positions and department spending outlined by the County Executive. It implements a hiring freeze across the county government. Nehring said these steps would protect funding for core services while addressing the deficit.

Nehring has voted against property tax increases during his 10 years on the Council. He argued that government should balance its budget like local families and businesses do. He described tax increases as a last resort for residents who already pay $2.1 billion annually in total taxes.

The County Council will vote on the 2027-28 biennial budget in a couple weeks. The budget hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, November 10, at 10:30 a.m. The session will take place in the Council Chambers on the 8th floor of the administrative building at 3000 Rockfeller Ave. in Everett. Residents can also participate remotely via Zoom.

Residents may send written input to the Council by emailing Contact.Council@snoco.org. Nehring said he intends to work with his colleagues to adopt a budget that prioritizes taxpayer affordability. He noted that spending reductions must occur at some point to eliminate the budget deficit.