NCW Libraries is committed to keeping our communities informed about issues that may affect library services and funding.
As conversations continue about the proposed Tax-Increment Financing (TIF) district in Malaga, we want to share our position. The current public dialogue has included different perspectives about the proposal and its impacts. NCW Libraries remains focused on evaluating how the TIF may affect our district’s long-term funding and our ability to serve communities across five counties.
Here is our official position.
NCW Libraries is aware of the ongoing conversation between Chelan County and the Chelan-Douglas Port Authority regarding the Port’s consideration of a Tax Increment Financing (TIF) district in Malaga. The creation of a TIF district will impact the library district’s long-term financial outlook and we are monitoring the situation closely.
As an inter-county library district, we serve communities across North Central Washington. We remain committed to maintaining constructive, professional relationships with all of our government partners. While recent conversations have been challenging, we respect the roles that both Chelan County and the Port Authority play in shaping local economic development and community planning.
We also want to clarify that any changes to how TIFs are structured, implemented, or how they affect taxing districts can only be addressed at the state level. NCW Libraries does not have authority over TIF policy; our responsibility is to operate within the laws established by Washington State.
Our priority is, and will continue to be, providing equitable and sustainable library services to the communities we serve. We will continue engaging with all partners to ensure that decisions made at the local and state levels support the long-term well-being of North Central Washington residents.
More Information:
RCW 29.114
Tax Increment Financing (TIF), Municipal Research and Services Center
Español de México 