Des Moines voters decided Tuesday to raise property tax rates to fund restoration of police services to previous levels.

According to unofficial election night figures from King County Elections, 56.70 percent (2,385 votes) of those voting approved a tax levy lid lift, while 43.30 percent (1,821) opposed the hike.

The city's regular property tax levy rate will rise next year from $1.16 to $1.60 per $1,000 of assessed value. On a home valued at $250,000, the increase will be about $110 per year.

The vote also authorizes annual levy rate increases of 4 percent for each of the five succeeding years.

The lid lift will pay to restore most police positions eliminated since 1999. Police Chief Roger Baker plans to hire six new officers, three community service officers and one records specialist. Funds will also be used to upgrade technology and provide support for the restored positions.

Des Moines voters turned down a levy lid lift twice before in the past three years.

Updated election information is available at http://www.metrokc.gov/elections/200605/res.htm.

The May 24 Times/News will also provide full details.