Cities 101 videos
It’s important that your community members understand what cities do. As part of Cities 101, we are asking cities and towns to enhance the way they interact with their communities and legislators. Here at AWC, we have been doing the same. That’s why we produced the short Cities 101 video series below. We hope that you will share these with your community members and stakeholders to help educate them on the importance of Washington cities!
Cities 101 – Sewers
Learn how our modern sewer systems work, how they are paid for, and why cities and you should be making a big stink about it.
Cities 101 – Population growth
Washington’s population is booming, and much of that growth is happening in cities. Watch this video to learn how many people are expected to move to Washington, and what it means for cities as they budget, plan, and prepare for the growth.
Cities 101 – Revenues & expenses
City budgets are complicated. And how do city revenues and taxes work, anyway? Learn about how the city council plans and pays for city services and the challenges they face.
Cities 101 – Streets and the city transportation system
Nearly every trip in Washington begins or ends on a city street. Watch the video to learn about city streets and the many important features of the transportation system. As cities grapple to fund priorities, it's critical these important assets are well designed, constructed and maintained for today, and into the future.
Cities 101 – Property taxes
Property tax is the largest revenue source for cities in Washington State. More specifically, it comprises nearly 25% of all city revenue, but on average, cities only receive 13 cents of each property tax dollar paid. This revenue supports critical city services, including police officers, firefighters, streets, sidewalks, and parks.