This article addresses the upcoming levy lid lift ballot, how the city arrived at this point, and what other options may exist. Entering the “yellow zone” requires a formal fiscal emergency and authorizes use of emergency reserves to maintain operations. At the close of 2021, Edmonds had nearly $18 million in GF reserves— well above minimum requirements. The city is presenting voters with a false choice: either pass the $14.5 million levy or face severe service cuts. Unfortunately, given the city’s chosen course, the only practical way to advance this alternative is to vote “no” on the levy lid lift.