Public Meetings - Everett, Washington

Mayor Franklin called the meeting to order at 6:30 PM. The council heard public comments, approved several consent items, passed ordinances on critical areas and the North Broadway Pedestrian Bridge, received a legislative session debrief, and took first readings on two Everett Outdoor Event Center (EOEC) items. A letter of support for light rail to Everett was announced for future approval. Consent Calendar - Approved six consent items unanimously (7-0): claims payment ($2,353,270.99), biosolids removal award, 2025 pavement overlay completion, materials testing amendment, Public Works Board pre-construction loan application, and call for bids for WPCF projects. Public Comments & Testimony - Reese Denhouse (Everett resident, AquaSox fan) expressed full support for the EOEC, citing economic benefits: $85 million in business revenue, 600 jobs ($33M/year labor income), $1 million annual tax revenue, and risk of losing 180 jobs and $9M labor income if the stadium is not built. - Charles Burgess (Edmonds, Laborers Local 292) voiced strong support for the project on behalf of civic pride and organized labor, noting the venue will be built under a Project Labor Agreement. - Tammy Dunn (Snohomish County Sports Commission) supported the EOEC for its potential to host tournaments, youth sports, and a women’s professional softball league, driving economic development and quality of life. - Laura Gennan (Everett) attempted to speak but was cut off for campaigning for Congress; she then briefly expressed agreement with previous speakers. Discussion Items - Light Rail Support Letter: Councilmember Ryan announced he will draft a letter expressing the city's support for building light rail to Everett, to be discussed and approved at the next meeting (April 22, 2026). The mayor and several councilmembers encouraged public advocacy to the Sound Transit Board ahead of a May vote. - Council Bill 2603-20 (2nd Reading – Naming City Properties): No discussion; third and final reading set for April 29, 2026. - Council Bill 2603-19 (3rd Reading – Critical Areas Regulations): Public hearing opened and closed with no speakers. Councilmember Ryan asked about Tulelalp Tribe comments; staff confirmed ongoing collaboration. Ordinance passed unanimously (7-0). - Council Bill 2603-18 (3rd Reading – North Broadway Pedestrian Bridge): Passed unanimously (7-0). Councilmember Zarlingo noted the bridge's importance for safety and connectivity to Everett Community College and WSU Everett, while acknowledging cost constraints. - Legislative Session Debrief (Item 12): Trevor Justin reported key outcomes: the 2026 supplemental budgets (operating $80.2B, capital $890M, transportation $16.6B); passage of Senate Bill 6346 (millionaire tax, 9.9% on household income $1M, effective 2028); housing bills (SB 6026, HB 2266) supported by Everett; public defense funding bill did not advance; automatic license plate reader bill passed with expanded crimes; and the city’s top win—HB 2442 (fire benefit district authority) passed. Council discussed the millionaire tax’s potential impact on city revenues and the need for state funding for public defense. - Everett Outdoor Event Center (Items 9 & 10 – First Readings): Scott Patison and design team presented a 60% design update. Key details: total project budget $120M ($52M construction, $35M property acquisition, $19M soft costs, $9M contingency); 5,000 seats, artificial turf, retractable mound, flexible family seating; two primary entrances with views; festival street around stadium; design incorporates tribal heritage elements. The teams (AquaSox and USL) will assume daily operations and maintenance under a 30-year lease with $17M capital contributions, revenue sharing, and 50 city event days per year. Funding sources: 14% from teams, 6% state, 4% county, 9% other partners, 8% city CIP, 38% bond proceeds (covered by direct revenue), and 21% gap to close. Council asked about parking, pedestrian access from Everett Station, and the financial pro forma (to be presented in June/July). Third readings set for April 29, 2026. Key Outcomes - Appointment Confirmed: Louise Ramon Orochi appointed to CHIP loan review committee (term expiring Dec 31, 2029) unanimously (7-0). - Minutes Approved: Minutes of April 8, 2026 approved (6-0-1, Vice President Ryan abstaining). - Consent Agenda: Approved 7-0. - CB 2603-19 (Critical Areas): Passed 7-0. - CB 2603-18 (Pedestrian Bridge): Passed 7-0. - CB 2603-20 (Naming Properties): Advanced to third reading on April 29, 2026. - CB 2604-21 & CB 2604-22 (EOEC Items): First readings held; third readings set for April 29, 2026. - Executive Session: Held for 20 minutes (real estate, no action taken). - Light Rail Letter: Councilmember Ryan to draft a letter for council approval at the next meeting. - Legislative Priorities: Staff will continue to advocate for state funding of public defense and monitor the millionaire tax implementation.

The Budget & Finance Committee of the Everett City Council met on April 15, 2026, at 5:30 PM in the City Council Chambers. Interim Finance Director Mike Bailey presented a monthly finance update for March 2026 (preliminary) and a 2027 outlook addressing the city's structural deficit. Council members discussed revenue trends, expenditure savings, and long-range forecasting assumptions. No votes were taken; the meeting was informational. Discussion Items - Monthly Finance Update (Preliminary March 2026): Mike Bailey reported that general government revenues were about 2% ahead of budget year-to-date. Sales tax showed a rebound, slightly ahead of both budget and prior year, reflecting December 2025 holiday spending (two-month lag). B&O tax was tracking below budget due to quarterly payments (April is the key month). Utility taxes (outside utilities) were ahead, and miscellaneous revenues (mostly interest earnings) were outperforming conservative forecasts. General government expenditures were underspending by about 7% on a pro-rata basis, consistent with prior years. Bailey noted that the city's dependent on sales tax has increased, reducing resiliency in an economic downturn. - 2027 Outlook and Structural Deficit Briefing: Bailey reviewed the city's long-range forecast, which projects a structural deficit exceeding $15 million in 2027 without corrective action. Key assumptions include a vacancy savings budget (contra account) and a budget variance factor reflecting expected underspending (e.g., $5.4 million for 2027). He contrasted the 2025 anomaly (intentionally lowered variance to fund retroactive pay) with typical levels. Council members questioned forecasting methods (percentage-based, informed by history), fund balance targets (20% for general government plus a cumulative reserve fund), and comparisons to other cities. Mayor Zarlingo emphasized that the forecast is a planning tool, not a plan to run a deficit. Bailey affirmed the city ended 2025 with about $50 million in general government fund balance due to careful spending, but costs continue to outpace revenue growth. Key Outcomes - No formal decisions or votes were taken; the meeting was advisory and informational. - Council members directed staff to provide further details on the percentage used for conservative budgeting and vacancy forecasting. - Interim Finance Director Bailey committed to publishing the full March 2026 monthly report and the 2025 annual financial report by mid-May, in time for the state auditor's May deadline. - The committee acknowledged the need to proactively address the structural deficit, with discussions to continue in future budget sessions.

The Everett City Council held its regular meeting on Wednesday, April 8, 2026. The agenda shows a start time of 11:30 a.m.; the meeting metadata records 19:30 UTC. President Schwab presided, with Councilmembers Weir, Zarlingo, Burbano, Tui, and Bader present; Mayor Franklin and Vice President Ryan were excused. During the meeting, the council approved the April 1 minutes, adopted a 10-item consent calendar, heard three in-person public comments, considered proposed ordinances, held a briefing on new city property naming procedures, and entered executive session on a workers’ compensation settlement. Consent Calendar - Approved a Resolution authorizing claims against the city totaling $2,265,002.40 for the period March 21–27, 2026. - Approved a Resolution authorizing payroll claims totaling $6,064,634.41 for the period ending March 21, 2026. - Authorized release of RFP 2026-021 for Tree Policy & Landscaping Development. - Authorized the Mayor to sign PSA Amendment No. 1 with David Evans and Associates, Inc. for the Everett Transit College Station Cabinet Charger Installation Project. - Authorized a Call for Bids for the PGSF WMVD Storm and Combined Sewer, Package 1 Project. - Authorized the Mayor to sign Brown and Caldwell, Inc. Amendment No. 1 for the PGSF WMVD Storm and Combined Sewer project, with revised total compensation not to exceed $7,603,140.00. - Authorized the Mayor to sign a PSA with KBA, Inc. for Construction Management and Inspection services for Package 2, not to exceed $6,744,579.00. - Awarded the PGSF West Marine View Drive Storm and Combined Sewer Package 2 contract to KLB Construction, LLC for $43,694,570.62. - Authorized the Mayor to sign PSA Amendment 3 with PACE Engineers Inc., extending the completion date to June 30, 2026, for the Everett Mall Bus Station Platform project. - Authorized the Mayor to sign Amendment No. 1 with Pacific Rim Laboratories Inc. for environmental analytical testing services (PBDE and PFAS laboratory analysis). All consent items passed unanimously by the six councilmembers present (6-0). Public Comments & Testimony - One written comment was received from Mary Fensky regarding a neighborhood residential manufactured housing community; it was entered into the record. - June Schober, District 3 resident, urged the council to reconvene the joint policy committee to complete the transit consolidation study, noting that the completion of Everett Transit’s long-range plan and the Cross-Link connection makes now an opportune time. She said decisions made now would reverberate for decades and required due diligence. - William Parents, Silver Lake, said the downtown crime atmosphere had calmed and the library care team had made a positive change. He expressed concern that some grant organizations use people as a conduit for funds that end up in private pockets, keeping rents high, and urged the city to ensure grants go to the organizations themselves. - Gene Carrillo, North Everett, reported a large residential fire on April 1 at 12th and Poplar in vacant Bakerview housing, which required mutual aid from Marysville. He warned that hazardous materials such as lead and asbestos could pose a risk to nearby Hawthorne Elementary and surrounding homes, praised Everett Housing Authority’s maintenance and security, and urged the council and mayor to help EHA obtain demolition and redevelopment funding. Council Comments - Councilmember Weir reported on county and chamber events, FIFA World Cup fan-zone planning, and a committee briefing on the bicycle master plan, including a California Street connection to the waterfront; she also highlighted several upcoming resident events. - Councilmember Zarlingo reported on a committee briefing on e-bike regulation code development and praised the Everett Rowing Association’s middle school and learn-to-row programs on Silver Lake as a public-private partnership using existing facilities. - Councilmember Burbano attended the Everett Film Festival and the Snohomish County Human Rights Commission meeting with Sheriff Johnson, who emphasized building community trust. - Councilmember Tui said she had written a letter supporting Everett Housing Authority demolition funding and reminded colleagues about follow-up wording changes for action items from the council retreat. - Councilmember Bader asked for a comprehensive update on the park district; President Schwab agreed and noted that the transit consolidation study remains a potential review item from the retreat. Discussion Items - CB 2603-18 – North Broadway Pedestrian Bridge (2nd Reading): The ordinance creates Special Improvement Project Fund 303, Program 133, and repeals Ordinance No. 4113-25. No questions or comments were raised; final reading is scheduled for April 15, 2026. - CB 2603-19 – Updated Critical Areas Regulations (2nd Reading): No questions or comments were raised. A public hearing and final reading are scheduled for April 15, 2026. - CB 2603-20 – Naming and Renaming City Properties (1st Reading/Briefing): Parks and Facilities Director Kimberly Moore presented the proposed ordinance adding EMC Chapter 2.138. It would replace Resolution 6537 procedures. The mayor’s office would screen requests; larger proposals would go to the Historical Commission and relevant boards/commissions before council action by resolution. A fast-track process would apply to small properties under 2,000 square feet, rooms, small structures, art installations, and public places or natural features of 5,000 square feet or less. Moore noted one change from prior policy: a person no longer must be deceased for one year before a property can be named for them, based on council feedback. Councilmember Bader asked about guidance on naming properties after people versus geographic features, citing the Cesar Chavez example; Moore said the ordinance outlines caution and also covers renaming. Councilmember Weir clarified that the previous one-year waiting period applied only after a person’s death, and the change could allow approval for living individuals if the rest of the council supports it. Final reading is scheduled for April 29, 2026. Action Items Passed - Approved the Resolution concerning the 2026 Annual Action Plan and authorized the Mayor to execute the 2026 HUD grant agreement and associated subrecipient agreements (6-0). - CB 2603-15 – Evergreen Way Overlay (3rd/Final Reading): Adopted the ordinance creating Fund 303, Program 139 to accumulate costs for the improvements (6-0). - CB 2603-16 – Dorn Avenue Drainage Improvements (3rd/Final Reading): Adopted the ordinance creating Fund 336, Program 043 and repealing Ordinance No. 4048-24 (6-0). - CB 2603-17 – 2026 Revised City Budget (3rd/Final Reading): Adopted the ordinance approving 2026 revised appropriations and amending Ordinance No. 4126-25 (6-0). Executive Session - The council entered a 10-minute executive session under RCW 42.30.110 to discuss settlement of a workers’ compensation claim, with council action to follow. After the session, City Attorney David Hall requested a motion to authorize the Mayor to execute a settlement agreement; the raw transcript ends before the motion and vote are recorded. Key Outcomes - Minutes of April 1, 2026 were approved, with Councilmember Tui abstaining (5-0-1). - The 10-item consent calendar was approved 6-0. - The 2026 Annual Action Plan/HUD grant resolution was approved 6-0. - CB 2603-15, CB 2603-16, and CB 2603-17 were adopted on final reading, each 6-0. - CB 2603-18 and CB 2603-19 were moved to their final reading on April 15, 2026. - CB 2603-20 was moved to its final reading on April 29, 2026. - The executive session was held, and the transcript ends before action on the settlement motion is recorded.

The Parks & Built Environment Committee of the Everett City Council met on April 8, 2026, at 5:00 PM in the City Council Chambers. Councilmember Rhyne was absent; Councilmember Weir attended in her place, and Councilmember Burbano was present. The committee received two staff briefings: an update on the Bike Master Plan implementation and a presentation on proposed e-bike regulations. No public comment was taken. Bike Master Plan Update - Tom Hood, City Engineer, reported that the 2011 Bike Master Plan (30-year plan) is about 50% complete after 15 years. The city has built 23 miles of off-street bikeways and completed 25 projects; 16 more projects are anticipated by 2030. - Key completed projects: north-south corridor on Hoyt connecting Legion Park to Interurban Trail, Everett Station to 41st Street connection, bike lanes on 112th Street, and Milltown Trail on West and East Marine View Drive. - Recent additions (since 2023): 28 miles of wayfinding signage, West Casino Road bike lanes, Madison Street buffered bike lanes (with tubular markers and channelization curbs at intersections), and Fleming Bicycle Boulevard. - 2026 projects include Edgewater Bridge bike lanes, 19th Street overlay with a bike box at Broadway, two signal projects on East Marine View Drive (half-signal at Jackson Park and RRFB at 10th Street), and Fulton bike/pedestrian corridor. - Future projects: North Broadway pedestrian bridge, Milltown Trail extension south, and California Street bike corridor (design starting on west side; east side already designed but unfunded). - The city earned a Bronze designation from the League of American Bicyclists (renewed recently). Staff noted only 17 Washington communities have designations; most are Bronze. The League provided a report card to reach Silver, including building low-stress network, bicycle parking, plan update, and school safety education. - Councilmember Burbano raised concerns: missing bike route on Google Maps (Hoyt Avenue not shown), safety of 112th Street bike lanes (high-speed road), lack of traffic calming on 4th/5th Avenues in South Everett. Acting chair responded that speed humps are ineffective on higher-volume roads and that a Vision Zero briefing will be scheduled. Councilmember Burbano also questioned low League scores in engineering (49/78), education (38/92), encouragement (57/89), evaluation/planning (37/84), and equity (38/75). Tom Hood noted scoring is a 'black box' and that Bronze is significant. E-Bike Code Development - Hill Cayman from the legal department presented a framework for regulating e-bikes and electric micro-mobility devices, citing a four-fold increase in e-bike use and doubling of e-bike-related emergency room visits annually since 2017. - Proposed class definitions (based on state law): Class 1 (pedal-assist, no throttle, up to 20 mph); Class 2 (throttle, up to 20 mph); Class 3 (pedal-assist, up to 28 mph). Also defined 'personal powered transporter' as an umbrella term for new devices. - Key policy recommendations: - Helmets: Required for devices exceeding 20 mph and for all riders under 16. - Age restrictions: Under 16 prohibited from Class 3 (already state law); 11-15 limited to devices under 20 mph with helmet; 10 and under require direct adult supervision. - Sidewalk use: Prohibited for all bikes and e-bikes in the central business district (parking area A). On shared-use paths (e.g., Interurban Trail), Class 3 prohibited unless all jurisdictions agree; Class 1 and 2 allowed. - Speed and location: Devices under 20 mph can operate where bicycles can; over 20 mph restricted to streets. - Equipment: Lights, noise limits, labeling requirements to prevent illegal modifications (e.g., removing speed regulators). - Penalties: Civil infractions, possible impoundment, and a gross misdemeanor for reckless endangerment. Parental responsibility for violations by minors. - Councilmember Burbano appreciated the classification approach, noting that other municipalities sometimes ban all e-bikes. Councilmember Weir noted the challenge of balancing safety with practical use (e.g., lime scooters on sidewalks) and enforcement limitations. The acting chair thanked staff, noting the regulations are ahead of fast-moving technology. - The committee agreed to have Hill Cayman return in 2-3 months with a more developed ordinance after broader council input. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. - The committee will follow up on e-bike regulations at a future meeting. - Staff will provide a Vision Zero briefing at a later date.

The Everett City Council met on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included a briefing on updated critical areas regulations (CB 2603-19), action on several ordinances, public comment on code enforcement and development, and council reports on community safety, pop-up food stands, and housing legislation. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved (7-0, with two excused) the consent agenda consisting of: - Resolution authorizing claims against the city in the amount of $4,631,844.74 for the period ending March 20, 2026. - Authorizing a Professional Service Agreement with Botesch, Nash & Hall Architects for the Everett Police Property Room Facility Tenant Improvement (up to $273,800). - Authorizing a Request for Qualifications/Proposals for a General Contractor/Construction Manager for the WPCF Headworks Replacement Project. Public Comments & Testimony - Helen Vaugh (Everett resident) described a permitting issue regarding electrical work in her garage, noting she applied for a permit after starting work, then paused and sought demolition permits. She requested guidance on compliance with city safety requirements. - Russell Joe (Master Builders of King and Snohomish Counties, Bellevue) expressed general support for the critical areas regulation update and praised city staff for collaboration. He requested the council not increase buffers for NP/NS (non-fish-bearing intermittent) streams from 50 to 100 feet (or 125 feet for unvegetated banks) in urban settings, citing infill goals and existing stormwater infrastructure. He noted the expansion would affect about 50 acres and 1% of developable land. If the council adopts the expansion, he asked that flexibility mechanisms (buffer averaging, director discretion) be retained. - Written comments were acknowledged from five individuals regarding NRMHC zoning and one regarding an outdoor event center. Council Comments & Reports - Councilmember Zarlingo reported on the Snohomish County Tomorrow meeting, highlighting Everett’s successful enforcement against unpermitted pop-up food stands. He noted that after initial outreach by bilingual officers, the number of stands dropped from six or seven to zero, and the city’s approach serves as a model for other county jurisdictions. - Councilmember Ryan reported from the Community Health and Safety Committee meeting: emphasis patrols for traffic safety increased staffing from one to three officers, with goals for continued patrols including speed on West Marine View Drive. She requested future patrols also target modified mufflers and excessive vehicle noise. She also thanked participants in a Charter Review Commission public hearing, celebrated housing bill signings at Housing HopeWorks, and promoted the Late Shift Everett events. - Councilmember Burbano noted complaints about speeding and loud cars on several South Everett streets, expressed desire for speed calming devices and a pump track for bicycles, and raised concerns about the proposed utility tax, hoping funds would be used for quality-of-life improvements like parks and community centers. - Councilmember Bader emphasized that red-light camera revenue in Everett is dedicated to public street safety (not a general fund), and that police use data-driven patrols. He announced the Edgewater Bridge reopening is expected May 1 (correcting an earlier April Fools mention), an April 16 neighborhood meeting, and the opening of a women and children’s facility on Suver’s Ducey Road. He also honored outgoing WSU Chancellor Dr. Paul Pitre for his role in establishing the medical school and research campus in Everett. - City Attorney David Hall reported no executive session. Discussion Items - Briefing: Critical Areas Regulations Update (CB 2603-19) — Planning Director Yorick Stevens Waja and Environmental Planner Teddy Holbrook presented a comprehensive overview of the proposed ordinance to update Chapter 19.37 of the Everett Municipal Code, the periodic update required every 10 years. The ordinance would repeal and replace the chapter to improve clarity, organization, and alignment with best available science. Key changes include restructuring into five or six articles, updated definitions, expanded exemptions and allowed uses, increased stream buffers for non-fish-bearing streams from 50 to 100 feet (and 125 feet for sparsely vegetated areas), a new section on non-conforming structures in critical areas, and provisions for daylighting piped streams. Staff estimated the buffer expansion would affect about 50 acres (half a percent of city land) and a tenth of a percent of residential capacity due to overlapping steep slope and wetland buffers. The council received the briefing; a public hearing and final reading are scheduled for April 15, 2026. - Briefing: 2026 Annual Action Plan (Item 11) — Community Development Manager Kimber Landry presented the resolution authorizing the mayor to execute the 2026 CDBG, HOME, and AHTF grant agreements with HUD. The city receives direct CDBG allocations and participates in a consortium with Snohomish County for HOME and AHTF funds. The 2026 program year (July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027) is the second year of the 2025–2029 consolidated plan. A public hearing was held by the Community Development Advisory Committee on February 3. Action on the resolution is set for the April 8 council meeting. Key Outcomes - Consent items (claims, PSA, RFQ/RFP) approved unanimously (7-0). - CB 2603-14 (PGSF WMVD Storm and Combined Sewer Improvements special improvement project) passed on third reading unanimously (7-0). - Item 10 (License Agreement with Port of Everett for construction access at Norton Terminal) authorized the mayor to sign, passed unanimously (7-0). - Items 4–7 (Evergreen Way Overlay, Dorn Ave Drainage, 2026 Budget revision, North Broadway Pedestrian Bridge) were on second reading; third and final readings are scheduled for April 8, 2026. - Item 8 (CB 2603-19) was on first reading; a public hearing and final reading are set for April 15, 2026. - Item 11 (2026 Annual Action Plan resolution) will be voted on at the April 8 meeting. - The meeting adjourned at an unspecified time.

The Everett City Council Community Health and Safety Committee met Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at 5:00 PM in City Council Chambers. Councilmember Weir presided according to the transcript, although the printed agenda listed Councilmember Tuohy as chair; Council President Don Schwab was present. The committee reordered the agenda at the start, moving the legislative session debrief to the end so the mayor's youth violence prevention update could be heard while Youth Advisory Board guests were present. No formal motions or votes were taken. Mayor's Youth Violence Prevention Directive - Police Chief Robert Getz reported on efforts aligned with the mayor's 2018, 2023, and 2025 directives, structured around prevention, intervention, and enforcement. - Prevention: School resource officers are assigned to Everett High School, Cascade High School, North Middle School, Eisenhower Middle School, and Evergreen Middle School. One of two vacant SRO positions was filled for the 2025 school year; the remaining vacancy is projected to be filled at the start of the 2026-2027 school year. Eisenhower and Evergreen currently share one SRO. - Other prevention efforts include the Casino Road Soccer Camp, the police STEM Academy, Boys and Girls Club events, and a new Boys and Girls Club near Casino Road. - Volunteers of Police Services removed graffiti in the Casino Road and Lyons Park areas, achieving more than 60 consecutive days without graffiti; Casino Road was tagged again about two weeks ago and has since been painted over. - Intervention: Since the Access Project Partnership launched in September 2025, police have referred 10 youth to it, the most recent referral occurring last week. Twelve youth have been referred to the Latino Civic Alliance's 'I Am Jaguar' program, which is currently on hold while it seeks funding. Lieutenant John Carr was assigned as liaison to Hear Me WA, an anonymous reporting option; no referrals have been received through that system yet. - Enforcement: Juvenile suspect numbers are roughly flat, down about 2% compared with the prior three years; juvenile firearm-related arrests and gang-related juvenile suspects are up about 23%; juvenile victimization is down 20%. Property and violent crime suspects decreased, while arrests did not decline at the same rate. - Chief Getz gave an example in which ALPR technology identified a suspect vehicle after a Casino Road graffiti reoccurrence, leading to juvenile arrests and recovery of several stolen firearms. - The department is exploring another 'guns for gift card' event in 2026, pending funding. - Kylie and Eva from the Mayor's Youth Advisory Board described the board's 16 members, monthly meetings, and current focus on youth safety. Their initiatives include a youth-led safety social media campaign covering online safety, drug safety, transportation safety, and youth engagement, and safety panels with Mayor Franklin and Chief Getz at North Middle School, Everett High School, Sequoia High School, and Eisenhower Middle School. - Councilmember Bader asked whether outside offenders were driving the negative statistics. Chief Getz said anecdotally that is the case and will provide data on juvenile violent crime suspects by city residency. Emphasis Patrols and Traffic Safety Update - Chief Getz said traffic safety remains a frequent community concern and the strategy focuses on speed, red-light violations, DUI, and targeted emphasis patrols. - The traffic safety unit expanded from one to three motorcycle officers in December 2025, enabling more emphasis patrols; the department is on pace to return to 189 emphasis patrols, matching 2024 levels. - Traffic stops increased year over year, with approximately 2,400 additional traffic stops projected for 2025. Collision data is trending downward, with a projected reduction of about 400 collisions in 2026. - The department uses Washington Traffic Safety Commission data from anonymized insurance telematics to identify high-risk locations; about 3% of area commuters are in the sample, and results are consistent with enforcement observations. - On West Marine View Drive, police issued nearly 400 tickets in 2025 and added four overtime enforcement patrols this month, funded by automated traffic enforcement revenue. - Traffic Safety Unit Sergeant Craig Davis is working with stakeholders to establish a youth traffic court. Successful completion would allow a young driver's infraction to be dismissed and not reported to the Department of Licensing. - Councilmembers expressed appreciation for the emphasis patrols and for using automated enforcement revenue for traffic safety. One councilmember urged consideration of emphasis patrols for tinted windows, modified mufflers, and loud noise, suggesting those violations are often tied to other illegal activity. Another councilmember asked whether additional red-light or speed cameras are being considered; Chief Getz said the program is not housed in the police department, but it could be considered with traffic engineers. Legislative Session Debrief - Staff member Jennifer reported on state legislative outcomes relevant to the committee. - Indigent defense: The city and Association of Washington Cities advocated for increased state support but saw no real wins; a services-related sales tax change could create a prospective fiscal hit, so staff called the overall result 'not great' and a topic for future sessions. - Housing: The capital budget included increases for housing and homelessness and funding for manufactured home park acquisition and preservation. Jennifer said she had not yet researched the manufactured home park item. Councilmember Bader expressed strong interest because the city is looking at preserving mobile home parks. - STEP housing bills: New state law codifies systems Everett already uses to support siting of shelter, transitional, emergency, and permanent supportive housing, and directs other cities to do the same. Management or 'good neighbor' plans can be used in development review, but the scope for denying a permit based on them is limited. Jennifer said Everett uses these plans collaboratively rather than punitively. - Buffer zones: A bill that would have restricted the city's authority to use buffer zones on city streets did not pass, which staff described as a good outcome. - Automated license plate readers: The state passed regulations covering ALPR systems such as Everett's Flock cameras, including privacy protections and exemption of data from disclosure, and allowing use for felonies and gross misdemeanors. Councilmember Bader noted that the Pierce County Sheriff has raised concerns about parts of the ALPR camera system and asked for staff analysis of implications for Everett. - Public safety sales tax: Efforts to fix House Bill 2015 did not move. Three cities have now received certification from the Criminal Justice Training Commission; Everett has submitted its paperwork and is optimistic. The certification is a one-time approval. Key Outcomes - The committee reordered the agenda so the youth violence prevention update and Youth Advisory Board presentation came before the legislative debrief. - No votes or formal motions were taken; all items were informational. - Chief Getz agreed to provide Councilmember Bader data on juvenile violent crime suspects by residency. - Staff will research the capital budget funding for manufactured home park acquisition and preservation. - The committee will monitor state ALPR regulations and the city's pending public safety sales tax certification. - The next committee meeting will be the Snohomish County Jail Tour; the transcript mentioned May 1 initially and then settled on Wednesday, May 6.

The Everett City Council met on Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at 12:30 PM in the City Council Chambers. All council members were present except for one abstention on minutes. The meeting included recognition of Dr. Ronald Brown for 25 years of service as the Fire Department's medical program director, a moment of remembrance for Officer Dan Rocha (fourth anniversary of his death), public comment, council comments, and approval of a consent calendar. A key discussion centered on the first amendment to the 2026 city budget, and multiple ordinances were passed on third and final reading. Consent Calendar - Approved claims against the city totaling $2,159,222.71 (period ending March 13, 2026). - Approved payroll claims of $6,168,592.61 (period ending March 7, 2026). - Authorized lease agreement with Ritchie Law PLLC at Everett Station. - Authorized Amendment No. 2 to the lease agreement with Bezos Academy at Everett Station. - Accepted a $25,000 donation from Cheryl Ann Seeley into the Fund for the Animals. - Authorized Amendment No. 2 to the 2024 Water Quality Grant Agreement with WA Dept of Ecology (not to exceed $3,765,954.75). - Authorized Amendment No. 1 to the PSA with KBA, Inc. for Port Gardner Storage Facility construction management (total $8,921,364). - Awarded construction contract for Lowell Riverfront Trail Improvements to OMA Construction, Inc. ($1,035,258). - Awarded construction contract for Main Library HVAC Replacement to Apex Mechanical LLC ($2,079,308). - Authorized PSA with Nash Consulting for management training. - Awarded Greely Street Water Quality Retrofit contract to SEI Neptune General Contractors ($475,187). a- Authorized call for bids for WPCF TFI Barscreen Repair. na- Authorized PSA with Traffic Data Gathering for citywide pedestrian and bicycle data collection. Public Comments & Testimony - Max Vegarski (Woodinville, works in Everett) spoke about a partnership with Sam Mensimer to benefit Music for Life, a nonprofit that provides donated musical instruments to Everett public schools. He announced a benefit night at Sean O'Donnell's on April 23, 2026 (20% of food and non-alcoholic beverage sales donated). He encouraged instrument donations. - Written comments were submitted regarding the Everett Manufactured Housing Communities Zoning: over 20 individuals exprested support or concerns (list provided). One written comment about an outdoor event center was also noted. Discussion Items - CB 2603-17 – First Reading: 2026 Budget Amendment No. 1 (Mike Bailey, interim finance director, presented). The amendment increases spending authority by approximately $7.5 million ($1 million general government, $6.5 million non-general funds). Key adjustments included: - Carrying forward unspent funds from 2025 for specific purpose: human needs grants, drones for police, tree power program, street improvement ($696,058 from motor vehicle/gas taxes), vehicle purchase, library reservation, and COVID relief ($4.8+ million).n - New grant funds: $60,620 for legal (ingent defense cost increases), $200,000 for annexation planning, $50,000 for planning in Casio Road and downtown Everet association areas.n - The amended budget uses fund balance (general fund balance estimated at $50 million, up from budgeted $35 million) and new revenues.n - Staff also noted a staffing realignment following Lori Cummings's retirement and addition of Mike Fong, to support growth initiatives and revenue strategies. No formal action required on realignment. - Councilmember Bader asked about restricted vs. unrestricted fund balance. Bailey clarified the $50 million estimate is unrestricted. - The ordinance will have third/final reading on April 8, 2026. Key Outcomes - Minutes of March 18, 2026 approved (6-0-1, Bader abstained). - Consent Calendar approved unanimously (7-0). - CB 2603-14 (2nd reading, creating Special Improvement Project "PGSF WMVD Storm and Combined Sewer Improvements") – passed to third reading April 1, 2026. - CB 2603-15 (1st reading, Evergreen Way Overlay) – passed to third reading April 8, 2026. - CB 2603-16 (1st reading, Dorn Avenue Drainage Improvement) – passed to third reading April 8, 2026. - CB 2603-17 (1st reading, budget amendment) – passed to third reading April 8, 2026 (not voted on final this meeting). a- CB 2602-10 (3rd reading, close Kiwanis Park Renovations) – adoptined (7-0). a- CB 2602-11 (3rd reading, amending Main Library HVA C Replacement appropriations) – adopted (7-0). a- CB 2602-12 (3rd reading, create Police Propert y Room Facility Tenant Improvement) – adopted (7-0). a- CB 2603-13 (3rd reading, amend utility payment late fees ordinance) – adoptined (7-0). Council members thanked utility department and noted improvements for reconnection after shutoff. a- Item 22 (Adopt update d Everet Transit Long Range Plan "Connecting Everet in 2045") – adoptined (7-0). Councilmember Bader encouraged incorporating input from non-riders. Meeting adjourned at approximately 2:00 PM.

The Everett City Council held a regular meeting on March 18, 2026, at 6:30 PM in City Council Chambers. The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance and a Land Acknowledgment. Mayor Cassie Franklin reported on her recent trip to Washington, D.C., including discussions with federal officials about the Epic Bridge project and light rail advocacy. She also presented Brooke Item for appointment to the Historic Commission (Position 5, term expiring December 31, 2027), which was approved unanimously. The council approved the consent agenda (items 1, 2, 4, 5, and 6), a collective bargaining agreement with IAFF Local 46 for 2026–2029 (action item 3), and received a first reading briefing on the Port Gardner Storage Facility (PGSF) conveyance projects (CB 2603-14). Public comment addressed license plate readers, immigration, and protest buffer zones. The council recessed into a 20-minute executive session on pending litigation. Consent Calendar - Approved Resolution authorizing claims against the City of $1,933,934.47 for the period ending March 6, 2026. - Approved Resolution authorizing electronic transfer claims of $12,138,066.77 for January 2026. - Approved Amendment 3 to Vehicle Upfit and Service Bodies contract with Aalbu Brothers Fabrication. - Authorized the Mayor to sign Amendment No. 1 with GeoEngineers for monitoring services at the Diking Improvement District Advance Mitigation Site (not to exceed $25,600). - Approved Change Order No. 9 with Granite Construction Company for the Edgewater Creek Bridge Replacement project ($885,802.27 increase; revised total not to exceed $27,348,945.37). Public Comments & Testimony - John Peoples (Everett resident): Opposed the city’s use of license plate-reading cameras and criticized the Land Acknowledgment as “civic performance art.” He urged the council to look to God for guidance and reminded members not to use public computing resources for personal political activity. - Kathleen Bergler (Everett resident): Expressed gratitude for the Land Acknowledgment and praised Everett’s diversity. She rejected views expressed by previous commenters against undocumented immigrants, citing DOJ data showing undocumented immigrants commit less than 50% of criminal offenses than U.S.-born citizens. She voiced support for the city’s stance on ICE and the vibrant cultural landscape. - Janine (Everett resident): Warned about Christian nationalism and described an incident outside Planned Parenthood involving the Family Policy Institute of Washington. She requested the city implement an eight-foot floating buffer zone around Planned Parenthood, noting that three officers were required for two hours during the protest. She stated this would be constitutional and reduce taxpayer burden. - (Written comment from John Martin regarding an outdoor event center was acknowledged and included in the record.) Discussion Items - IAFF Collective Bargaining Agreement (Action Item 3): Jason Brock, Vice President of IAFF Local 46 and an Everett firefighter, presented the contract. He highlighted occupational hazards including cancer, PTSD, and injuries, and noted negotiations were conducted with attention to the city’s fiscal constraints. The four-year agreement (2026–2029) provides medical protection, dignity, and stability. The council unanimously approved the motion (6-0; Councilmember Bader excused). - Second Readings (Items 7–10): Council Bills 2602-10 (Kiwanis Park renovations fund closure), 2602-11 (Main Library HVAC replacement fund amendment), 2602-12 (Police Property Room Facility Tenant Improvement fund creation), and 2603-13 (utility late payment administration amendments) were read by title and moved without discussion. Final readings are scheduled for March 25, 2026. - First Reading – CB 2603-14 (PGSF Storm and Combined Sewer Improvements): Director of Public Works Ryan Sass and City Engineer Tom Hood briefed the council on the state-mandated combined sewer overflow (CSO) reduction program. Key points: - The Port Gardner Storage Facility at the former Kimberly-Clark site is under construction ($150 million total project cost, under a project labor agreement) and will provide 7 million gallons of storage, exceeding the modeled need of 3 million gallons. - Conveyance pipelines (West Marine View Drive projects) total $117 million, split into two projects to minimize traffic impacts during FIFA events and port activities. - Compliance deadline with the Department of Ecology agreed order is December 31, 2027; non-compliance carries fines of $10,000 per day. - The program is expected to reduce CSO volume by 95%, from approximately 20 million gallons per year to just over 1 million gallons. - Funding comes primarily from utility rates, bond proceeds (approximately $80 million), and future Ecology grants. A project labor agreement pilot on the larger conveyance project will compare performance. - Odor control measures are included, and a one-way construction traffic loop via port property will minimize congestion on West Marine View Drive. - Councilmembers asked about compliance, community impacts, and the PLA pilot. Third reading is scheduled for April 1, 2026. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar (items 1, 2, 4, 5, 6) approved unanimously. - IAFF collective bargaining agreement (item 3) approved unanimously (6-0). - Second readings (items 7–10) moved to third reading on March 25, 2026. - First reading of CB 2603-14 received; third reading on April 1, 2026. - Brooke Item appointed to the Historic Commission (unanimous). - Council recessed into executive session for 20 minutes (pending litigation, no action expected). - Upcoming events announced: Light rail town hall (April 14 at Everett Station, 6 PM), District 1 town hall (June 2 at Everett Performing Arts Center, 6:30 PM), and neighborhood meetings.

The Everett City Council Budget & Finance Committee met on March 18, 2026, from 5:30 PM to 6:15 PM in City Council Chambers. The primary agenda item was a Utility Tax Overview, presented by Interim Finance Director Mike Bailey, to address the city's projected structural deficit of over $15 million. The committee also received a brief Monthly Finance Update and discussed future agenda items. Utility Tax Overview - Interim Finance Director Mike Bailey presented a proposal to transition the city's current 6% payment-in-lieu-of-tax (PILOT) on enterprise fund activities (in place since 1983) to a utility tax, a tool used by virtually every other city in Washington State. He noted that a utility tax has clearer legal authority than the PILOT approach. - The administration recommends a 12% utility tax (a 6% increase), which would generate approximately $7.5 million annually for the general fund, a significant step toward closing the $15+ million structural deficit. - The tax would apply to city-provided utility services (water, surface water, etc.) both inside and outside city boundaries. Costs would be passed through to all ratepayers, including wholesale water customers (e.g., Marysville, Lynnwood, Edmonds). For a typical residential user, this would result in an estimated rate increase of $10.74 per month. - Councilmembers asked about impacts on low-income and senior customers. Bailey responded that staff would revisit and enhance assistance programs and conduct outreach, similar to existing property tax relief programs. - The tax would appear on customer bills as a line item stating that a 12% utility tax is included in the rate. - Bailey stated that an ordinance would be brought to the council for three readings, likely in April or early May, with a goal of mid-year implementation. - Councilmember Zarlingo and Councilmember Ryan expressed support for prioritizing the utility tax as a transparent, timely step, consistent with the council retreat priorities. Monthly Finance Update - Bailey advised that no monthly financial report was provided for January or February because early-year data is not meaningful due to lags in sales tax receipts (two-month lag) and property tax timing. Trends are not yet reliable. - The next monthly report will be produced in April for March, using a new format that will also include the status of vacant positions, as requested by the council. - Staff are currently finalizing the 2026 budget, closing out 2025, and preparing for the audit. Any urgent issues would be brought to the council immediately. Key Outcomes - The committee agreed to move forward with the utility tax proposal as recommended, with an ordinance to be introduced in April or early May for first reading. - Future agenda items will include further revenue options discussed at the retreat (in priority order), the effects of the newly passed municipal fire authority (MFA) legislation on the budget, and analysis of state legislative impacts on the city's finances. - The council plans to schedule a visit from the city's lobbyist in April to discuss state budget effects.