At their July 24 meeting, the city council voted unanimously to form a transportation benefit district with the aim to generate revenue specifically for use on local street projects.

The city has struggled to keep up with street improvement needs, particularly in the past few decades in the face of declining state funding.

More than 110 cities in Washington state have formed transportation benefit districts after facing similar issues.

The district, governed by the city council, is expected to meet Aug. 1 to consider revenue options, including sales tax and vehicle license fees. The district can impose up to 0.1 percent sales tax, or 0.3 percent sales tax with a public vote. The district can also consider a $20 car tab fee for local vehicles, or go to a public vote to consider up to $100.

A 0.3 percent increase in sales tax would generate approximately $800,000 annually for local street maintenance and repairs; a $20 car tab fee would generate $186,000 annually.

“For the first time in years, our community has a real chance at seeing a future street system that better serves all modes and rises to our community’s expectations,” said public works director Steve King.