Initiative backers submit signatures

Advocates of a property tax that would raise money for early child learning, abuse prevention, treatment and other programs have submitted 12,641 signatures in support of placing the levy on the November ballot.

Supporters of the initiative, which is called the Spokane Children’s Investment Fund Levy for Families and Youth, turned in signatures to the city clerk’s office on Thursday. They anticipate turning in additional signatures today, bringing the total to 13,000.

The issue needs 8,334 valid signatures to earn a public vote.

The Spokane City Council will vote on July 12 if it will place the initiative on the ballot, ask the county elections office to validate signatures first or declare it illegal.

The tax, which would raise $5 million annually, would cost the owner of a $100,000 property $35 a year.

Jonathan Brunt