Senate Democrats introduced a capital budget proposal this week that would invest in infrastructure to support behavioral health, affordable housing, education, and orca and environmental protection.

This first step in the budget process shows what we’re hoping to prioritize this year in state investments. We’ll be negotiating over the coming weeks, but I hope to include a number of important local projects for our communities that improve public safety, expand recreation and educational opportunities, and protect our environment.

The capital budget includes these projects but whether they are in the budget that is ultimately passed by the legislature will depend on the negotiations with the House of Representatives in the coming weeks.

40th district proposed projects include:

  • $1 million for the Skagit EMS Communication network upgrade
  • $1 million for the Lopez Island Swim Center
  • over $60 million for Western Washington University classroom upgrades and Sciences Building addition and renovation
  • over $2 million for Port of Bellingham Cornwall Avenue Landfill remedial cleanup
  • $1 million for Mt. Baker Theater renovation
  • $500,000 for Padilla Bay federal capital projects
  • $200,000 for the Washington Park boat launch repair in Anacortes
  • $250,000 for YMCA Camp Orkila

Statewide, the budget invests the issues that matter most ot the people of the 40th district:

  • $200 million in behavioral health
  • $175 million in the Housing Trust Fund
  • $230 million in toxics cleanup and stormwater management to local governments
  • $14 million for forest hazard reduction and wildlife protection
  • $310 million is devoted to orca recovery, salmon habitat restoration, conservation programs and recreational opportunities

This proposed budget prioritizes the needs of our communities and environment. I’m proud to have contributed my voice for the projects and investments that make our special corner of Washington such an extraordinary place to live, work, and play. I will continue to work hard to keep these elements in the budget as we work through the process to get it to the finish line.

I hope that this update finds you enjoying the first days of spring!

Warmly,

Liz Lovelett