Hold King County’s Doors Open arts tax accountable

The King County Metropolitan Council is expected soon to vote to increase the sales tax in the county by 0.1% to 10.35% to support arts organizations throughout the county. That sector is far from regaining its footing from devastating losses during the pandemic.

The council is likely to approve the measure, which does not require a vote of the people. But that’s when the hard work begins. Should it pass, county officials should ensure accountability in spending and in analyzing the effectiveness of the programs that get funding.

The Doors Open ordinance — estimated to generate about $100 million a year once fully implemented — would support hundreds of nonprofit cultural programs and public schools throughout the county. Big arts centers such as the Seattle Opera and the Woodland Zoo would be eligible, just as smaller groups like Arts Corp, an education organization that brings arts to schools.

Some money would be spent on operations for existing groups, building and capital costs and about 15% to bring the arts to public schools, such as funding field trips to cultural events. There is also a bucket of money for arts programs and events within neighborhoods. Free admission to events will also be available in some cases.

A county tax to fund the arts has been talked about for years, and in 2017 King County voters said no to Proposition 1, though by a slim margin. 

County Councilmember Claudia Balducci told The Times editorial board that, since the defeat, much has been done to correct issues she said contributed to its defeat. She said 4Culture, the agency that would distribute the funds, held community meetings to assess the public’s opinion. It created an arts culture plan and an arts education plan. The new proposal ensures there will be geographical and culture equity in the distribution of funds.

The program has the potential to enrich the lives of all King County residents and those who visit the county. There must be culturally aware outreach to all communities to inform them of the benefits and opportunities created by the tax. Follow-up to ensure the goals and promises are met each year is crucial. Doors Open supporters say there are built in assurances that low-income residents and those in South King County and Seattle’s South End will benefit from the tax that will disproportionately impact them.

A vibrant community depends on the arts to educate and entertain, and tap the creative spirit in the young and old.