SEATTLE, Wash. -- The mayors of more than 40 cities across Washington have sent a letter to leaders in Olympia, urging them to consider an 8 cent per-gallon gas tax as a way to help pay for transportation needs.
Among the signees was Walla Walla's mayor.
In addition to the gas tax increase, the letter suggests a motor vehicle excise tax increase of up to 1.5 percent. Counties could enact the increase by public vote or by a vote by County Councils.
The mayors are also asking to increase of the vehicle license fee from $20 to $40. The license fee could also be increased either by public vote or by a vote of local councils.
The mayors say more than $3 billion is needed to maintain roadways and bridges in the state over the next 10 years.
Democrats in the state House are expected to introduce their transportation proposals next week.
