KC Exec unveils early childhood levy plan in budget address

King County Executive Dow Constantine wants taxpayers to fund a new levy for early childhood and youth programs, he announced Monday at the unveiling of his proposed budget for the next two years.

Constantine says the “Best Starts for Kids” levy proposal would focus on pregnancy and early childhood programs, school-aged kids and their communities.

The executive did not offer any specifics or costs. A number of groups will work to provide input on a plan over the coming months, and he’ll send a formal proposal to the King County next year, he says.

Constantine says the levy would ultimately save taxpayers far more in the long run by reducing the costs of incarceration, violence, diabetes, and mental illness later on.

The proposal came as part of a budget address Monday that saw Constantine propose an $8.9 billion spending plan that includes $1.5 billion for the general fund.

While touting $35 million in new efficiencies and cost cutting, the budget makes good on warnings the county would be forced to make significant cuts in a number of areas including Metro Transit, roads, and public health.

Constantine blames a cap on property taxes that limits revenues to a one percent increase plus new construction, leaving the general fund facing an ever-increasing shortfall.