Providing for Growth in an Uncertain Economy

Lacey experienced significant growth in recent years:

• Total housing units grew by 32% between 2000 and 2008;
• Property assessed value nearly tripled over the same period; and
• Job growth and commercial development remained strong.

Yet, despite a relatively vibrant local economy and a concerted effort to contain spending, Lacey struggles to keep pace with basic service demands and address the overwhelming water, wastewater, and transportation infrastructure pressures that are so critical to the city’s future health.

Lacey is not immune to the recent economic crisis and rapidly-rising costs:

• Permit fees and real estate excise taxes have declined by 50 percent;
• Sales and business tax receipts are dropping at an alarming rate;
• The capital budget has been dramatically reduced; and
• Vacant positions are filled only if warranted.

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