BLAINE, Wash.  (Metro)  -- The City of Blaine is looking at a $536 thousand shortfall in the general fund. 

The "Herald" reports the shortfall had already reached $350 thousand before the owners of the Semiahmoo Hotel announced plans to close. 

Officials are looking at increasing property taxes by three percent, laying off three employees and cutting contributions to the Senior Center, along with the Boys & Girls Club. 

If property taxes are raised, the owner of a $200 thousand home would pay around $13 more per year.
 
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