Seattle leaders declare opposition to measure to nix Climate Commitment Act

Seattle leadership is publicly opposing a ballot measure that would repeal the Climate Commitment Act, which has generated billions of dollars for clean energy initiatives throughout Washington state.

On Tuesday, the council by a vote of 7-0 passed Resolution 32149 expresses Seattle leaders’ opposition to Initiative 2117, which if approved by voters next month, would end the state's cap-and-trade program under the 2021 CCA. The resolution was proposed by Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell and sponsored by Councilmember Tammy Morales. Council President Sara Nelson abstained from voting.

The revenue generated from carbon auction sales goes toward programs meant to reduce the state’s greenhouse gas emissions by 95% by 2050.

Proponents of the I-2117 argue the CCA's cap-and-trade program is simply a tax that drives up gas prices.

According to Morales, Seattle has been awarded more than $26 million in grant funding through the CCA, with funds being used to support low- to moderate-income households gaining access to eclectic heat pumps. Funds are also being used to boost electric infrastructure in the Emerald City.

“It is clear that we need to oppose Initiative 2117 – it’s a bad deal for Washington [and] it will create a really large hole in our state’s budget,” Seattle City Councilmember Dan Strauss said at Tuesday's city council meeting.

According to a recent report from Greenline Insights, I-2117 would deprive the state of $3.9 billion in revenue through 2029.

Nelson expressed her view that the city council should take a public stance on a ballot measure and abstained from voting.

Morales noted that city council approval of the resolution results in Seattle officials joining the cities of Redmond, Burien, Kenmore, Shoreline, Lake Forest Park in publicly declaring opposition to I-2117.

Last month, the King County Council also approved a motion to publicly oppose I-2117, although Councilmembers Reagan Dunn and Pete von Reichbauer abstained from voting.

Seattle City Councilmember Cathy Moore noted that repealing the CCA would impact the Aurora Avenue Project, which has $46 million in state funding reserved. According to Moore, the project depends on the CCA and is earmarked for 2029, right before the project is set to begin construction in 2030.

The Aurora Avenue Project intends to improve safety enhancements and accessibility for drivers and pedestrians on one of the city’s highest traffic volume streets.

Voters will decide the fate of I-2117 on Nov. 5.