At least one Federal Way resident who is concerned about a proposed utility tax is encouraging residents to speak out against the measure at an upcoming City Council meeting.

Jack Sharlock waved a sign Wednesday at the corner of South 320th Street and First Avenue to protest a proposed utility tax in Federal Way.

The Federal Way City Council voted March 6 to approve the first reading of an ordinance that would levy a 7.75 percent tax on Lakehaven Utility District customers. The tax would generate about $980,000 a year. Lakehaven will challenge the tax’s legality in court if the ordinance passes.

The council is expected to vote on whether to enact the tax at its March 20 meeting, which begins at 7 p.m. at City Hall, 33325 Eighth Ave. S. The proposed tax is one of several measures suggested to help cover an $850,000 budget deficit.

“I’m trying to get everybody’s attention,” said Sharlock, who wants fellow citizens to attend the March 20 meeting and share their concerns about the utility tax. “This is not right for the customers of Lakehaven.”

The city currently levies a 7.75-percent utility tax on gas, electric, cable, phone and other utilities. Water and sewer is not included under the current utility tax ordinance. On a $60 water and sewer bill, the proposed 7.75-percent tax would cost $4.65.