Will Puyallup’s safety building pass? Here’s where the latest results stand
The city of Puyallup’s measure to fund a new public safety building had just over 60 percent of the vote when early results came in election night, but as more ballots have been counted that percentage has dropped.
As of 4:30 p.m. Nov. 5, it has 5,573 votes or about 59.4 percent of the vote.
If Proposition No. 1 passes, taxpayer money would go towards establishing a new building in South Hill, which would bring the police department, jail and Municipal Court under one roof. A police substation on the first floor of City Hall would also be established.
A statement sent from city spokesperson Eric Johnson via email said the bar is “very high” for a bond measure to pass. They must receive a 60 percent approval vote and a minimum voter turnout of 40 percent from the last election. The proposition has only met the latter requirement.
“At this time, the bond is barely falling short of the high voting criteria to pass. The City is determined to forge a path ahead. At this time, it is too early to determine what path we may choose. We encourage our residents to stay informed about this project by visiting our website, social media, and attending public meetings,” the statement says.
The project has an $82.7 million price tag. For 25 years, homeowners that own a median-priced house would pay about $20 per month in property tax if the proposition passes. That comes out to about $240 per year.
Proponents say the new building will help give the police department more office and jail space, which has been crowded for many years now. Some opponents say the new jail may be larger than needed and that there are issues with the proposed location.
The new building would be located at 600 39th Ave. SE next to Central Pierce Fire & Rescue Station 72.
This story was originally published November 6, 2021 at 5:00 AM.
