Citing fears of increased low-income density in White Center that could create problems that spill over into Burien if the area remain unincorporated or is annexed by Seattle, several Burien council members signaled June 20 they would favor the city annexing the remainder of North Highline.
The lawmakers emphasized their support would hinge on whether annexation would be revenue-neutral and would require no new taxes.
“If we can manage it, we should do it,” Councilman Gerald Robison declared.
Councilwoman Lucy Krakowiak, who was the lone vote against annexing the southern portion of North Highline, again voiced opposition.
“We are not ready to annex,” Krakowiak said. “I can’t see how this will work out.”
City Manager Mike Martin reported he has hired Berk and Associates to conduct a study testing the financial viability of annexing the area. The study is scheduled to be completed by Aug. 1, but Martin said he could supply draft information to lawmakers earlier if it is deemed accurate and reliable.
In March, Seattle city officials, citing finances, said Seattle was not interested in annexing White Center but may reconsider it in February. At the same time, a resolution allowed Burien to proceed.
After studying the Berke report and allowing for public comment, Burien officials could place an annexation measure on the ballot. Only those in the proposed annexation area would vote on the measure.
Councilman Gordon Shaw said he would like to see an overall financial report that takes into account the changing economy and changing demographics. The financial numbers would also have to include the fiscal impacts for special districts such as fire, sewer and water, he added.
Councilman Jack Block Jr. named several preconditions for annexation. He said King County should fund capitol projects for the area, compensate the Burien/Normandy Park Fire Department for the poor management of North Highline Fire Department, mitigate expenses for two housing projects, and transfer ownership to Burien of the police precinct/ courthouse building.
But Block said Burien should look at what negative conditions may happen if Burien does not annex the area
“We want to have a say in what goes on up there,” Block said.
Robison, a resident of the area annexed into Burien last year, said he has been working on annexation for a long time.
“There are a number of perceptions about White Center that are not accurate including the residents are helpless, can’t take care of themselves and need government.” Robison said.
He said White Center has fewer vacant storefronts than Burien.
“It is full of homegrown businesses that are exactly what Burien is looking for,” Robison added.
Robison said it is also a misperception that Seattle a large budget to pay for social services for White Center residents. He added that Seattle roads are in poorer condition than North Highline streets.
“Annexation would be for our own protection,” Robison said. “North Highline residents don’t need Burien.”
Councilwoman Rose Clark also cited the increase in low-income housing in White Center and warned that the effects would spread to Burien.
“This affects life on 152nd (Street),” Clark noted. “One of the reasons we incorporated was to get control of zoning.
“If the financials work out and we don’t have to raise taxes, we have to look at it (annexation),”
However, Krakowiak cautioned that annexation is a big issue that the council should take its time exploring.
She disputed the claim that Burien service levels have remained the same with the addition of the Boulevard Park area. Animal control has gone from “full service to bare bones,” according to Krakowiak. Seniors and Headstart programs have also changed.
Several Burien residents testified against annexation.
Resident Kathy Parker questioned why Seattle has said it can’t afford to annex White Center but Burien is exploring it.
She also questioned why lawmakers are not calling for a citizens’ advisory vote and considering annexation during the summer months when residents’ attention is diverted.
“Burien doesn’t have the social services or money for White Center,’ Kathy Parker declared. “We have our own serious needs.”
Resident Horace Parker said annexing the remainder of North Highline is “a very, very bad idea.”
“Burien can’t remotely afford White Center,” Horace Parker said. “It will bankrupt Burien when the (sales tax) subsidies end.
“There is not one rational reason to annex except to satisfy (local) police and fire departments.”
Noting council members were scheduled to vote on a final version of a visioning statement, Horace Parker said Burien should keep its old vision as a “small, nice, fiscally-responsible city.”
A final vote on the visioning statement was postponed after lawmakers suggested several small changes in the final draft. The council is expected to vote on the statement after receiving feedback from the visioning steering committee.
