The levy combines two previous measures that expire this year: a preschool levy first approved by voters in 2014 and the Families and Education Levy last approved in 2011. A third element is added this year, from Mayor Jenny Durkan’s campaign: two years of free college for every Seattle public school graduate who wants to continue his or her education at one of the Seattle community colleges. This money would not replace federal and state aid, for those who qualify, but would cover the remaining tuition needs after that aid is exhausted.
Taxpayers with tax fatigue may wince at the…