The city of Covington planned to send a proposal to fund street and sidewalk improvements through a sales tax increase to King County Elections for the April 28 special election ballot this week.

The city’s Transportation Benefit District recommended a 0.002 sales tax increase for the improvements be placed on the April ballot and if accepted by the county will appear as Proposition No. 1.

The City Council approved a resolution at the Feb. 10 meeting supporting the proposition.

According to information provided by the city, the increase would expire in 10 years and would equal $0.20 for every $100 in taxable purchases.

City Manager Regan Bolli said by email Tuesday, Proposition 1 will create a revenue stream of roughly $750,000 per year for street and sidewalk maintenance throughout Covington.  Maintenance projects will be prioritized and accomplished on that basis.  Using a sales tax increase to fund street and sidewalk maintenance means the cost for such projects is shared with all those shopping in our city and not just Covington residents.”

According to Bolli the city has been spending about $250,000 each year from the general fund for street and sidewalk repairs. The lack of funds has prevented the city from taking action on many street repair and maintenance projects.

Bolli said the revenue collected from the tax increase would be placed in a dedicated fund for streets.

The state sales tax of .065 plus local taxes from the state Department of Revenue has Covington below the 9.5 percent in Kent, Auburn (King County), Renton, Federal Way and Tukwila. Each of these cities add .03 percent local taxes.

Covington is currently at 8.6 percent including .021 percent local taxes and would move to 8.8 percent if Proposition No. 1 passes.

Maple Valley, Black Diamond and Enumclaw are currently at 8.6 percent.

Ballots will be sent 20 days prior to the election day.