OLYMPIA – The Association of Washington Cities (AWC) recently joined with the cities of Olympia, Port Angeles, and Port Townsend to file an amicus brief in the suit challenging Seattle’s authority to impose an income tax.

As stated in the brief, cities and towns have differing policy views on tax policy and revenues. AWC takes no position on the issue of income tax. AWC’s participation in the amicus brief is part of an ongoing effort to protect cities’ local decision-making ability.

“AWC has not taken a position in support of local income taxes,” explained Peter King, AWC Chief Executive Officer. “AWC has a long history of working to protect the local decision-making authority of councils for all 281 cities and towns.”

“We know locally-elected officials are best situated to serve the needs of their unique communities and make decisions in-line with and in response to their residents’ values. If upheld, the decision sets a terrible precedent for local decision-making.”

AWC serves its members through advocacy, education and services. Founded in 1933, AWC is a private, nonprofit, nonpartisan corporation that represents Washington's cities and towns before the state legislature, the state executive branch, and with regulatory agencies.

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Media contact:
Brian Daskam
Communications Manager
Association of Washington Cities
briand@awcnet.org
(360) 753-4137