The Kitsap County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously on October 12 to adopt a new 0.1% sales and use tax for criminal justice services. The tax takes effect January 1, 2027, and is expected to generate approximately $7.7 million annually.
For most residents, the tax will amount to approximately $20 to $40 per year, depending on household spending.
More than 76% of Kitsap County's budget is dedicated to public safety, with the General Fund paying for law enforcement, the jail, the courts, and other critical services. According to the county, costs are rising faster than revenue due to limits on property tax growth and increased service demands.
The vote came under House Bill 2015, which the Washington State Legislature passed in 2025. The law allows local governments to implement a local 0.1% sales and use tax dedicated to criminal justice, provided law enforcement agencies meet specific standards for policies, training, and accountability.
To qualify for HB 2015 funding, jurisdictions must meet standards established by the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission, including requirements for use-of-force policies, training, reporting, and accountability. By meeting these requirements, Kitsap County will be eligible to apply for additional grants through the commission.
Revenues from the tax may only be used for law and justice purposes. The county said the funding will help maintain staffing in the Sheriff's Office and jail, keep court and legal services functioning, update essential equipment, and support programs that help prevent crime and support reentry. Without additional funding, the county said it could face significant reductions in 2027, which could reduce jail capacity and increase the risk of delays in court cases.