TagPress Release(33)

The Port of Seattle funds its operations primarily through fees, bond proceeds, and operating revenue, with King County property taxes accounting for just 1.2% of all property taxes collected and roughly $78 per year for the median homeowner. The Port's tax levy has historically been directed away from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport itself, instead funding noise mitigation improvements at Highline School District schools near the airport. In 2023, the Port planned to invest $726.8 million in capital projects and $19.1 million across 18 community programs, while managing operating expenses of $573.5 million.

Puget Sound Energy (PSE) announced in May 2021 that it would make an additional $27.7 million available through its COVID Bill Assistance Program to help residential customers struggling to pay energy bills due to the pandemic. Customers whose net monthly household income falls at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level and have a past due balance may qualify for up to $2,500 per year in assistance. PSE also offered extended payment plans of up to 18 months and additional support through programs such as the Warm Home Fund and Weatherization Assistance Program.

An informational overview document explaining the Port of Seattle’s mission, operations, governance structure, funding sources, and key facilities including Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and maritime operations. The document covers how the Port serves the community through aviation, maritime, economic partnerships, and sustainability initiatives.

In March 2020, Port of Seattle officials and representatives from surrounding cities including Burien, Tukwila, SeaTac, Federal Way, and Des Moines traveled to Washington, D.C. to meet with the FAA and members of Congress about aircraft noise and emissions issues affecting the Puget Sound region. The group advocated for implementation of key provisions from the 2018 FAA Reauthorization Act, including a review of the 65 DNL noise standard, a study on the health impacts of overflight noise, and a new environmental mitigation pilot program. The meetings emphasized that local authorities have limited power to address flight paths, aircraft types, or noise insulation funding, and that federal action is needed to provide new tools and resources for affected communities.