Support the King County Parks Levy on Aug. 6

King County voters will start to see ballots for the August 6 election appear in mailboxes any day now. When those ballots arrive, please take a moment to vote Yes on the King County Parks Levy.

Yes on the King County Parks Levy

The proposed King County Parks Levy continues current, essential, funding for an incredible parks system. The Levy will continue to supply 70 per cent of King County Parks' budget for the next six years. The levy raises $18.77 per thousand dollars of property valuation -- or about $56 annually on a house valued at $300,000.

That will pay for important recreation projects at Cougar Mountain, Marymoor, Soaring Eagle, Preston and many other treasured local parks and trails.

Support vital trail systems and outdoor experiences

Washington Trails Association volunteers have worked hard to maintain King County trails over the years, and we've enjoyed a strong relationship with the Parks. This levy is essential to maintaining and improving the vital trail systems throughout the King County Park system.

In 2012, WTA volunteers completed 160 work parties on King County lands, working a total of 15,338 hours. We're on track to match those numbers this year. We commit so much time and energy to King County Parks because they serve so many hikers.

These lovely places are your backyard wilderness and home to many a formative outdoor experience. They're an essential component of Puget Sound's quality of life and economic strength. Voting yes on the King County Parks Levy is your expression of commitment to the values that make our region great -- our love of nature, our sense of place, and our commitment to providing key outdoor experiences to everyone who lives here.

Broad support, Seattle Times endorsement for levy

WTA is not alone in supporting the King County Parks Levy. A host of other organizations have been engaged in this effort, and last night, it earned The Seattle Times' endorsement.

So please take a moment and fill out your ballot as soon as you receive it, voting in support of the King County Parks Levy. Hikers across the region will thank you!