Kent, WA | February 26, 2026 — The Kent Police Department announced that the City of Kent has become the first city in Washington to receive formal approval under HB 2015 to implement a local public safety funding and accountability plan.
The approval from the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission allows Kent to move forward with implementing a 0.1% local sales tax, as authorized under the legislation. City officials say the funds will primarily support hiring, retaining, and deploying more police officers within the community.
Under HB 2015, jurisdictions must meet strict standards established by the CJTC, including updated use-of-force policies, comprehensive training compliance, reporting requirements, and accountability benchmarks. Kent officials confirmed that the city completed a detailed verification process to meet all statutory requirements.
Mayor Dana Ralph said the funding will allow the city to strengthen public safety operations and improve emergency response times. “This is about putting more officers on the street and improving response times,” Ralph stated, emphasizing the city’s focus on visible patrols and proactive policing.
Police Chief Rafael Padilla highlighted staffing as a key priority, noting that additional officers will help address increased 911 calls, investigative demands, and public safety needs.
According to city officials, 0.1% of sales tax revenue generated under HB 2015 will be dedicated exclusively to criminal justice purposes, including:
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Hiring and retaining law enforcement officers
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Reducing 911 response times
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Strengthening patrol and investigative capacity
The state grant program may fund up to 75% of entry-level officer salaries and benefits for up to 36 months, accelerating recruitment efforts during ongoing staffing shortages.
Kent will provide annual reports on the use of HB 2015 funds in accordance with statutory transparency requirements. City leaders say the approval positions Kent as a model for other jurisdictions seeking to expand frontline public safety services under the new law.
Officials described the milestone as a significant step toward enhancing community safety and ensuring long-term support for law enforcement operations.