The Federal Way City Council is to be applauded for taking a courageous step and voting to proceed with the design phase for the performing arts and conference center (PACC).

A vote to design is not a vote to build, so as our representatives, they are being slow and deliberate with this debate. They recognize there are a lot of fiscal hurdles that need to be understood and met before we as a city can proceed. For those who believe Federal Way’s best days are in its future, the PACC is a smart decision and it will become a valued community asset.

The PACC represents a path forward. For many in Federal Way who love this town the way it was 20 years ago, or are just worried about their property taxes, please know that maintaining status quo costs money and represents a path down, not up.

Also please note, if we do not build the PACC, our taxes go up to pay back the state. So it really is in the best interest of all of us to get behind our mayor and the decision our council members made and work with them for the success of this project. If we work together and get the PACC fully funded, our tax exposure is greatly reduced, and Federal Way has a community resource that will serve as a catalyst for change and a better future.

Keith Livingston, Federal Way