Public Meetings - Everett, Washington

The Budget & Finance Committee met to review the July 2025 financial report and receive a preview of the 2026 general government budget and balancing measures. The presentation covered a projected $7.9 million deficit for 2026 and a set of proposed expenditure reductions and one-time revenue uses to achieve balance. Council members asked detailed questions and discussed the implications of the measures, particularly the reliance on one-time COVID relief funds and the need for ongoing solutions to the city's structural deficit. July Financial Report - General government revenues exceeded year-to-date projections by $2,147,681 (2.3%) as of July 31, 2025, driven primarily by B&O tax receipts along with strong performance in grants and other tax categories. - Business and occupation tax receipts were up $836,210 (5.4%) year to date. Sales tax receipts came in $296,926 (1.3%) below projections, with wholesale trade, manufacturing, and information outperforming while retail, construction, and accommodation/food services fell short. - General government expenditures were $1,738,437 (1.8%) under budget, reflecting good financial management across departments. 2026 General Government Forecast and Proposed Balancing Measures - The long-range financial outlook as of August 2025 projects a budget deficit of $7.9 million in 2026. A spike in 2031 is tied to the police and fire LEOFF 1 pension funds reaching their actuarial funding target in 2030, assuming no further contributions after 2030. - Proposed balancing measures (both expenditure and revenue) closed the $7.9 million deficit: - Continued suspensions: General government contributions to police and fire pension funds (no deficit in funds for several years); $1 million reduction in the general government contribution to the street overlay program (program still receives $2.4 million from car tab fees, property tax, and other sources). - Expenditure reductions: Eliminating the standard 2% growth in departmental maintenance and operations budgets ($213,000 savings); using Senior Center Reserve Funds for the Volunteers of America Community Center Management Contract ($200,000 in 2026); reducing human needs programs by $308,000 while retaining $300,000 for human needs grants and $50,000 for Claire's Place supportive housing. - Revenue and fund transfers: Using lodging tax revenues for city-led events and the Everett Performing Arts Center contract (up to $334,957); transferring $1,067,725 from the criminal justice fund (supported by the 0.1% criminal justice sales tax) to fund the police department's violent crimes unit (six full-time employees); using $1,068,150 from a SAMHSA congressional grant extension for the alternative crisis response program. - Use of unallocated COVID relief funds: $2,296,117 in unallocated and unspent local COVID relief funds to help balance the 2026 budget; additionally, reallocating $2 million previously set aside for daytime service access (no operational partner found), $256,139 for the Clean Everett program, and $300,000 for tree planting (now funded by a federal grant from Snohomish County Conservation District). Discussion Highlights - Council members asked about the impact of the Boeing strike on revenues (manufacturing B&O and sales tax), noting a two-month lag; the finance team indicated the strike's effects may appear in future reports. - Questions were raised about the pension fund contributions and the option to extend the funding target beyond 2030; the finance director noted that annual actuarial valuations are available and that pre-funding is more conservative than the pay-as-you-go approach used by many cities. - Councilmember Thuli expressed concern that using nearly $5 million in one-time COVID funds to balance the 2026 budget does not address the structural deficit in future years and urged early conversations about ongoing solutions. - Councilmember Ryan suggested that some COVID funds might be used for one-time community investments beyond deficit reduction. - Councilmember Bader clarified that if COVID funds are redirected to other uses, equivalent cuts must be found elsewhere; the mayor stated that city departments cannot absorb further reductions. - Councilmember Bogley asked about the impact of the increased minimum wage; staff responded it primarily affects seasonal employees. - Councilmember Schwab (president) noted that while he is not enthusiastic about reducing the street overlay program, that and other measures require considering alternative cuts or revenue solutions. - The mayor acknowledged that the city has closed a cumulative budget gap of approximately $99 million between 2018 and 2025 through multiple rounds of voluntary separation, public-private partnerships, technology investments, and other efforts. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken; the presentation was informational. The 2026 budget is projected to be balanced on paper using the proposed measures. - The committee will hold a separate revenue workshop in the following month to delve deeper into revenue options. - The council indicated that further discussions are needed to identify ongoing solutions for the structural deficit beyond one-time measures.

The Everett City Council met on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 6:30 PM in City Council Chambers. Council President Schwab and Councilmember Fossey were excused. The meeting included approval of the September 3 minutes, mayor's comments on Vision Zero and Broadway construction, public testimony, council committee reports, consent item approvals, second readings of two ordinances, a first reading for the North Broadway Pedestrian Bridge, and a briefing on the draft Vision Zero Everett plan. Consent Calendar - Claims Resolution: Authorized claims against the city totaling $11,293,701.77 for the period ending August 29, 2025. - Payroll Claims Resolution: Authorized payroll claims of $5,676,093.78 for the period ending August 23, 2025. - Solid Waste Grant: Accepted a Local Solid Waste Financial Assistance Grant Agreement for $84,432.15 from the Department of Ecology. - Water Main Completion: Accepted the Water Main Replacement “Y” – Phase 1 as complete and authorized signing the Certificate of Completion. - Pickleball Court Contract: Awarded the Forest Park Pickleball Court Installation Project contract to Diverse Earthworks, Inc. for $868,210. All consent items were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - John Peoples (Everett resident, online): Expressed support for Charlie Kirk and Turning Point USA, requested flags be lowered through September 14, mourned the murder of Ukrainian refugee Irina Zarutska, and invited the council to acknowledge government responsibility for her death. He also welcomed Turning Point USA, Let Us Worship, and Students for Life to Everett. - Fernanda Hayesburg (in chambers): Complained about feeling betrayed by the city, cited false arrest, discrimination against online communications, unhoused crisis, and attacks by immigrants and migrants. She stated she has been a citizen for 59 years and asked for help, alleging that city programs have abused her. Discussion Items - Councilmember Bader: Reported on Riverside Neighborhood meeting with Community Transit about the SWIFT Gold Line, Puget Sound Regional Council approval of Everett's comp plan, and a PSRC regional transportation plan public meeting on September 18. - Councilmember Ryan: Updated on Parks & Built Environment Committee review of manufactured home overlay zone (decision on overlay vs. dedicated zone, public outreach, return in November); park safety update showing 23% reduction in criminal offenses and 12% drop in calls for service; storefront vacancies discussion to include big box vacancies; Port Gardner noise from cement shipments; support for Herald journalists on strike. - Councilmember Vogley: Announced Westmont Holly Neighborhood Association meeting on September 13; noted HUD Continuum of Care capital grant released September 5 with short application window; called for accountability for child rapists. - Councilmember Tui: Asked for update on COPS grant – all positions filled, funding decreasing over time. - Vice President Zarlingo: Reported on Japanese business delegation visit seeking investment, discussed Snohomish County Tomorrow meeting on affordable housing complexity, emphasizd preserving naturally occurring affordable housing. - City Attorney David Hall: Condemned political assassination of Charlie Kirk; updatd on District 4 eligibility case – Judge ruled Mr. Battle ineligible for ballot, ballots printing without his name. Key Outcomes - Consent Items approved unanimously. - CB 2508-46 (Riverpoint Outfalls Replacement Special Improvement Project) and CB 2508-47 (2025 revised budget appropriations amendment) passed second reading; final readings set for September 17, 2025. - CB 2508-48 (North Broadway Pedestrian Bridge Special Improvement Project Fund 303, Program 133) passed first reading; final reading set for September 24, 2025. Councilmember Ryan noted the project was moved up from 2036. - Vision Zero Everett Draft Plan: Briefing presented by Corey Hertz (traffic engineer) and consulantts from Kimley-Horn. Key statistics: 65 deaths and 342 serious injuries on city streets from 2019-2024; 50% of fatal crashes involve pedestrians/bicyclists. The plan identifies 16 high-priority locations (12 segments, 4 intersections) and includes engineering, non-infrastructure, and systemic countermeasures. Five commitments: prioritize walking/rolling, foster safety-first community, strengthen enforcement partnerships, adopt Vision Zero practices, build Vision Zero infrastructure. Public comment period runs from mid-September to mid-October; final plan expected November 2025. Councilmember Vogley asked how recent fatalities inform the plan; staff confirmed a quarterly dashboard will track progress. Councilmember Bader inquired about data excluding state highways, contributing circumstances, and funding challenges; staff noted a safe streets for all grant application upcoming. - District 4 Ballot Eligibility: Judge ruled Rodney Battle ineligible; ballots will be printed without his name.

The Parks & Built Environment Committee of the Everett City Council met on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 5:00 PM in City Council Chambers. The agenda included an update on the Manufactured Home Overlay Zone Ordinance and a briefing on park safety. Councilmembers Rhyne (chair), Vogeli (arriving late), and Zarlingo were present. Staff from the Planning Department and Parks Department presented. No formal votes were taken; discussion focused on gathering input for future actions. (Note: The meeting date is provided as 2025-09-10 13:00:00+00:00 per the instruction, though the agenda shows 5:00 PM local time; the discrepancy is noted but does not affect the summary.) Manufactured Home Overlay Zone Ordinance Update and Discussion - Planning Director York Stevenswatch, Long-Range Planning Manager Alice Ann Wetzel, and Special Projects Manager Frank Hong presented an update on implementing a mobile home park overlay or zone, as identified in the Comprehensive Plan. The city has 10 manufactured home parks with approximately 1,050 dwellings; two in District 1, two in District 3, three in District 4, and three in District 5. - Staff outlined two primary options: an overlay zone (maintains underlying zoning with a sticky-note designation) or a dedicated manufactured home zone (replaces underlying zoning). A previous voluntary overlay had zero participation and was removed during Rethink Zoning. The current effort aims to protect residents from redevelopment, especially given the housing shortage. - Councilmember Rhyne expressed a preference for a dedicated zone, arguing it provides stronger, permanent protection and forces owners to petition council if they wish to change use. Councilmember Vogeli supported a dedicated zone to avoid the perception of impending change. Councilmember Zarlingo asked about the underlying zoning and the potential for tenant purchase of land, referencing state programs and the work of ROC Northwest. - Staff discussed exit strategies: a dedicated zone would require a future rezone process; an overlay with an automatic repealer (e.g., 20 years) would revert to underlying zoning. They also noted that some parks (e.g., Broadway Terrace) are not leasing new sites, raising the question of whether all 10 parks should be protected. Outreach efforts include a meeting with Fairway Estates on September 25; staff have few contacts for eight of the ten parks. - Next steps: Staff will return to the committee in November with feedback from outreach and the Planning Commission. A public hearing before the Planning Commission is expected in late October, followed by a council public hearing in December or January. Park Safety Briefing - Assistant Parks Director Kimberly Moore and Parks Director Bob Leonard, joined by Deputy Chief Hendrickson from Everett Police, presented a status update since the departure of the park ranger team. The small ranger team had been unable to cover all 45 park properties effectively. New strategies include automated restroom locks (with light/sound deterrents), improved lighting at Kiwanis, Lions, and Jackson Parks, installation of flock cameras at Lions, Walter Hall, and Jackson Parks, and increased bike patrols (six officers plus a sergeant funded by a COPS grant). - Crime in parks has decreased 23% year-over-year, and calls for service are down 12%. Staff attributed this to better partnership with EPD, emphasis patrols, and activation projects such as a new dog park at Clark Park, a skate dot at Lions Park, and community volunteer adoption programs. The Care Team continues outreach to unsheltered individuals and helps clear encampments. - Councilmembers discussed the importance of activation for safety, the need for adequate garbage receptacles (staff acknowledged challenges on busy weekends), and the potential for more formal food truck opportunities. Deputy Chief Hendrickson noted that park gate closures are not handled by EPD, but bicycle officers patrol trails and parks. Councilmember Vogeli confirmed the bike unit now rides the new trail from the dog park to Cash Park. - When asked about reinstating the park ranger program, Bob Leonard said it is not recommended at this time given the effectiveness of current partnerships, though he did not rule it out for the future. Next Meeting Agenda Topics - Councilmember Rhyne requested a discussion on vacant storefronts and façade maintenance, expanded to include vacant big-box stores across the city, for the next committee meeting. Councilmembers Vogeli and Zarlingo concurred. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. The committee offered direction favoring a dedicated manufactured home zone over an overlay. Staff will continue outreach to park residents and owners and return to committee in November with updated analysis and community feedback. The park safety briefing provided an update with no action required; the committee accepted the report and noted the improved metrics. The next meeting agenda will include a discussion on vacant storefronts and big-box stores.

The Everett City Council met on September 3, 2025, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting covered a consent calendar, public comment, council reports, a first reading of a budget amendment, and several action items including the city's first Project Labor Agreement. After executive session, the council approved two opioid settlement participation agreements. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of August 27, 2025. - Adopted resolution authorizing claims in the amount of $1,339,361.83. - Authorized application for Emergency Management Performance Grant ($53,150). - Authorized amendment to Everett Station Operations and Maintenance Agreement with Sound Transit. - Authorized agreement for Indigent Defense Services with Snohomish County Public Defenders Association. - Declared a 2017 Ford F550 surplus and authorized auction. All consent items passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Corolanda Felicia Haysburg of Everett expressed strong criticism of the city's programs, alleging unfair treatment of American citizens, particularly the Black community, and insufficient help for unhoused residents. She claimed false advertising, harassment by police, and lack of paper applications. She urged the city to prioritize programs for Americans and called for a return to religious values. Council Comments & Reports - Councilmember Ryan acknowledged the speaker's comments and agreed the safety net is inadequate. She also promoted the Port's waterfront women's expo on Saturday. - Councilmember Vogley echoed support for the speaker and noted difficulty for average people without addictions to access housing. She apologized for missing a parks board meeting. - Councilmember Twee reported on the Community Health and Safety committee meeting, highlighting discussions on services, safety, and outreach. - Vice President Zarlingo reported on the Snohomish County Tomorrow meeting, focusing on the draft light rail community zone and the need for more diverse housing types beyond rental apartments. Discussion Items - Mayor's Comment: Mayor Franklin highlighted the first Project Labor Agreement (PLA) for the Port Gardner Storage Facility, emphasizing fair wages, apprenticeships, and opportunities for women and BIPOC-owned businesses. - City Attorney Update: David Hall discussed two litigation matters for executive session, an update on the candidate eligibility hearing (September 9), and noted Everett's pivotal role in initiating nationwide opioid litigation. - Budget Amendment (CB 2508-47, 1st Reading): Finance Director Heidi presented the third 2025 budget amendment, totaling $32,866,241. Changes included workforce adjustments, vacancy offset distribution, library internet costs, grant funds for public defense, and various capital projects. Councilmember Fossey requested details on park restroom projects. No vote taken; third reading set for September 17. - Project Labor Agreement (Item 8): Public Works Director Ryan Sass presented the PLA for the Port Gardner Storage Facility, calling it collaborative and efficient. Two labor representatives (John Lehman, Brian Johnson) spoke in support, praising the partnership. Council members expressed strong support, noting the long process and benefits for local workforce. The item passed unanimously. - Sex Offender Verification Program (Item 9): Authorized agreement with Snohomish County to accept $101,000 for address and residency verification services. Passed unanimously. - Municipal Court Access Control (CB 2508-45, 3rd Reading): Ordinance creating a special improvement project for courthouse security passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved Project Labor Agreement (Item 8): Unanimous vote (7-0) to authorize the mayor to sign the PLA for the Port Gardner Storage Facility. - Approved Sex Offender Verification Agreement (Item 9): Unanimous vote to authorize the mayor to sign documents for $101,000 program. - Adopted Municipal Court Access Control Ordinance (CB 2508-45): Unanimous vote. - Opioid Settlement Participation – Purdue Pharma: Unanimous vote to authorize participation in the Purdue Pharma bankruptcy settlement, expected to yield $1 million over 10 years. - Opioid Settlement Participation – Secondary Manufacturers: Unanimous vote to authorize participation in a smaller settlement totaling $125,000 from multiple manufacturers, with varied payment schedules. - Executive Session: Held for 5 minutes on two litigation matters; council action followed as above. - Next Steps: The Riverpoint Outfalls Replacement (CB 2508-46) and the 2025 Budget Amendment (CB 2508-47) will have third and final readings on September 17, 2025.

The Everett City Council's Community Health and Safety Committee met on September 3, 2025, at 1:00 PM UTC to receive a comprehensive update from staff on the city's homelessness response. Julie (Community Development Department) and Ben Breden, Homeless Response Coordinator, presented five key focus areas: services and support, housing and shelter, safety, internal collaboration, and engagement/outreach. Councilmembers Tuohy (chair), Bader, and Fosse participated in discussion and questioning. Discussion Items - Services and Support: The city partners with nonprofits like EMOTE, Courage to Change, Everett Faith in Action, and the Hot Meals Coalition. The Hot Meals Coalition provided an average of just under 5,000 free meals per month over the past year. The city's CARE Team responded to over 1,800 crises in the first half of 2025. Street medicine and peer support programs were highlighted. - Housing and Shelter: Ben reported that Snohomish County has 840 shelter beds (683 year-round, 157 seasonal), while the 2025 Point-in-Time Count identified1,140 unsheltered individuals. Since 2018, Everett has added 335 new housing/shelter units. Ongoing projects include the VOA shelter (pallets installed; grand opening fall 2025), New Start shelter (72 emergency bridge housing units, taking clients by end of 2025, managed by Salvation Army), and Everett Gospel Mission expansion (aiming for cold weather shelter occupancy by December 2026). The city increased cold weather shelter capacity from 49 to 84 beds last year and is seeking a South Everett location. Day shelter efforts have stalled; $2 million in ARPA funds set aside in 2021 did not result in a project. Interfaith Family Shelter's Madison Family Shelter (8 pallet units, 32 beds for families) opened in April 2025. - Safety: The buffer zone ordinance (approved 2023) was presented. Data from three buffer zones (Fred Meyer, 2020 shelter at UCC church, and a newer zone) show an average 51% decrease in police call-outs. The Andy's Place buffer zone showed a 17% decrease, but councilmembers noted ongoing neighborhood frustrations. Ben discussed encampment removal: since 2023, nearly 700 camps cleared; standard72-hour notice for cleanups, immediate cleanup for critical infrastructure. Management plans with service providers (including CPTED reviews) are used to mitigate neighborhood impacts. The buffer zone ordinance sunsets at end of 2025; staff will recommend continuation. - Internal Collaboration and Outreach: Ben acts as a conduit among departments for homelessness-related concerns. He works with churches, WSU medical residency (street medicine), and community groups to align efforts and avoid duplication. Events like a screening of “No Place to Grow Old” were hosted. - Future Agenda Items: Councilmember Fosse requested a future presentation on CPTED (Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design) applications citywide. Councilmember Tuohy suggested inviting the health district to present on vaccination rates. Other pending items include legislative impacts briefing, mayor’s youth violence directive, transportation safety, crime statistics update, county update on transitional/cold weather shelter, streetside vendors, and fentanyl exposure penalties. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken. Staff provided a status update with no action items for council. - The buffer zone ordinance will return to council for continuation before end of 2025. - The CARE Team’s next presentation is anticipated. - Councilmembers directed staff to explore a CPTED presentation (possibly video format) for broader community education. - Federal funding uncertainty was noted; a no-cost extension for a SAMHSA grant was granted through September 30, 2025, and the county secured Continuum of Care funds to avoid a $15–17 million cliff.

The Everett City Council met at 12:30 PM on August 27, 2025, in the City Council Chambers. The meeting included a public hearing on the 2025-2030 Transit Development Plan, adoption of a revised speed limit policy for 16th Street and Holly Drive, an update from the Northwest Innovation Resource Center, and approval of consent and action items. All votes were unanimous unless noted. Consent Calendar - Approved claims payable for the period ending August 15, 2025, in the amount of $1,903,304.03. - Approved payroll claims for pay period ending August 9, 2025, in the amount of $5,735,947.26. - Awarded a two-year contract (with renewal options) for sodium hypochlorite to HASA Inc. - Authorized the Mayor to sign Amendment 2 with Alliant Insurance Services. - Authorized execution of a Limited Release and Termination of Easements within the Port of Everett Millwright District. - Declared a 2006 Gillig 35’ diesel transit bus (B0307) and a 2009 Gillig 40’ diesel-electric hybrid transit bus (B0501) as surplus and authorized their sale at public auction. Public Comments & Testimony - Jean Carillo (Everett resident) spoke about dangerous speeding on 16th Street, where the posted 30 mph limit is routinely exceeded (vehicles reaching 50 mph). She noted difficulties crossing at Maple Street due to overgrown foliage blocking visibility, and suggested that painting parking lane stripes could narrow the roadway and visually slow traffic. She requested follow-up from city traffic staff on striping and foliage enforcement. Discussion Items Administrative Update – Northwest Innovation Resource Center - Kamianka (Executive Director) and Fatima Ahmed (program graduate) presented on the organization’s data analytics program and internship model. Fatima described her work with the Everett Station District Alliance (mapping service gaps) and Green Project Solution (data visualization for efficiency), highlighting how the program helps underemployed and dislocated workers gain experience. The center has partnered with Workforce Snohomish and placed graduates with local nonprofits. Council members expressed support and asked about future opportunities. 2025-2030 Everett Transit Development Plan (Public Hearing) - Mike (Interim Director) and Brandon Hilby (Fares & Finance Manager) presented the state-mandated annual plan. Key highlights: - Ridership: Three consecutive years of 32% fixed-route ridership growth; Everett Transit received the Community Transportation Association of the Northwest award for best small/medium agency. - Fleet: One million miles served by battery electric buses; 24 battery electric buses and 24 diesel-electric hybrids (on R99 renewable diesel) planned. Two electric paratransit vehicles to be piloted in 2026. - Finances: Operating reserves built with pandemic-era grants; total cash reserves projected to decline over five years but remain healthier than pre-2019. Revenues up 17% (partly due to Move Ahead Washington youth fare program), expenditures up 11%. - Service: 11% service expansion in June 2023 fully realized; future plans include extending service to the riverfront, integrating with Community Transit Swift Gold Line, and preparing for light rail. - Safety: Operator safety barriers in place since 2020; additional de-escalation training, JDLR training, and road supervisor late-night coverage added. Assault data now tracked via national transit database (mandated 2023). - Station: Mall station relocated 450 feet west (completion November 2025); Everett Station upgrades include digital signage, elevator rehab, new HVAC, and wayfinding. - Council members asked about microtransit (on-demand) feasibility, the impact of the Fred Meyer closure on Route 7 (staff are assessing), and the correlation between ridership growth and fare programs. No council action was required; the plan will be submitted to the state by September 1. Speed Limit Resolution for 16th Street and Holly Drive (Briefing & Action) - Corey Hurt (City Traffic Engineer) presented a new speed management policy developed under Vision Zero Everett, using data-driven methods (NCHRP Report 966 and NACTO City Limits). The policy evaluates roadway context, land use, and speed data. - Holly Drive: From 100th Street SW to 4th Avenue West (near Challenger Elementary) – reduced from 30 mph to 25 mph due to pedestrian safety. Other segments remain at 30 mph. - 16th Street: Both segments (Grand to Broadway, Broadway to East Marineview Drive) – reduced from 25 mph to 25 mph (consistent with policy recommendation; note: agenda stated revision of limits, but staff noted some segments were already posted at 30?). The resolution set the limit at 25 mph for the entire corridor. - The Transportation Advisory Committee unanimously recommended these changes on August 21. - Council members inquired about enforcement, striping for parking, foliage clearing, shared streets (new 10 mph designation allowed by state law), and the process for resident requests. Staff indicated a $400,000 grant (Safe Streets for All) will fund evaluation of 77 additional arterial/collector streets, including 20 mph residential limits and alley speeds. - Vote: Resolution adopted unanimously (8-0 with Councilmember Bader remote). Key Outcomes - Consent items 1-7: Approved unanimously. - CB 2508-45 (Municipal Court Access Control, 2nd reading): Placed on final reading for September 3, 2025. - CB 2508-42 (Forest Park Pickleball Court): Ordinance amended to accumulate costs – approved unanimously. - CB 2508-43 (Lion’s Park Lighting Project): Ordinance creating the special improvement project – approved unanimously. - CB 2508-44 (Walter E. Hall Community Amenities): Ordinance closing the project – approved unanimously. - Speed Limit Resolution: Approved unanimously. Staff will begin posting new 25 mph signs on 16th Street and Holly Drive (section near school) with orange warning diamonds and speed trailers for one week. - Transit Development Plan: Public hearing closed; plan to be submitted to state by September 1. Council took no action. - Northwest Innovation Resource Center: Update received; no action required.

The Everett City Council met on August 21, 2025, at 4:30 PM UTC (9:30 AM Pacific) in Council Chambers. The meeting included public comments, council reports, consent items, proposed action items, and final action on a graffiti ordinance. Mayor Franklin and councilmembers discussed the closure of the Fred Meyer store on Casino Road, public safety concerns near Compass Health facilities, and a life-saving rescue at Silver Lake. The council also recognized community heroes and issued a proclamation for Ukrainian Independence Day. Special Presentations - Life Saver Award: Chief DeMarco presented Citizen Lifesaver Awards to Gage Bryant (age 13), Pam Olson, Jennifer Fuller, and Jacqueline Zaruka for rescuing a drowning child at Thornton Sullivan Park on July 8, 2025. Gage Bryant dove repeatedly to locate the victim; the three nurses performed CPR. The child survived and attended the meeting. - Ukrainian Independence Day Proclamation: Mayor Franklin read a proclamation recognizing Ukrainian Independence Day (August 24). John Van Patton, a volunteer with Ukraine Defense Support, accepted and shared his family’s refugee experience. The organization has raised over $1 million and sent medical supplies and a Humvee ambulance to Ukraine. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of August 13, 2025. - Resolution authorizing claims against the city for $7,818,281.65 (period ending August 8, 2025). - Authorize Mayor to sign time extension for the 2025 Chaplain Blowdown Salvage Timber Sale contract. - Accept the WFP Emergency Generator Replacement Project as complete; authorize Certificate of Completion. - Authorize Mayor to sign 2025–2027 WSDOT Green Transportation Grant Agreement for bus charging at Everett Station. Public Comments & Testimony - Jose (District 2): Reported a stabbing near Andy’s Place (Compass Health facility) on August 18 at 1:00 AM, linked to a drug deal. Criticized Compass Health for lack of security and accountability, despite promising 24/7 security. Thanked police for patrols and the buffer zone, but urged the city to hold Compass Health responsible. - Charles McMurray (new resident): Praised Mayor Franklin’s outreach and police response to a homeless camp. Supported the graffiti ordinance (Action Item 9) but called for a community-wide effort involving businesses, churches, and Scouts to combat gang graffiti, citing finite city resources. - Matt Frazier (District 4): Expressed frustration over Fred Meyer closure, noting his son works there. Urged the council to adopt innovative approaches and hold accountable businesses that profit from the community but leave when convenient. Called for preventing a food desert. - Alexis (Port Gardner): Elaborated on Compass Health issues: daily drug use, overdoses, and loitering in alleys. Described a personal encounter helping a man in crisis. Praised police, fire, and city staff but said Compass Health pushes problems onto neighbors. Asked for accountability and for the city to review financial contracts with Compass Health. Discussion Items - Fred Meyer Closure: Mayor Franklin reported that Kroger will close the Casino Road Fred Meyer on October 18, 2025. Despite city efforts—emphasis patrols, sting operations, crime reduction (shoplifting down 82% since 2020, overall crime down nearly half in 2024)—the closure is driven by corporate decisions. Staff have created a resource guide (English/Spanish) with nearby grocery options and transit information, and will distribute it door-to-door. Councilmembers expressed disappointment, pledged to center community voices, and discussed transit improvements and potential redevelopment. - Compass Health / Andy’s Place: Multiple councilmembers acknowledged resident frustrations. Councilmember Vogely suggested reviewing financial incentives or contracts to require compliance. Councilmember Ryan asked for a report on emphasis patrols and contractual obligations. Councilmember Fossey noted that state and federal funding cuts worsen the housing-first model. Councilmember Schwab proposed exploring a fee for service providers that generate high emergency response calls. - Boards and Commissions: Administrative Director Jennifer announced that applications are open through October 20, 2025, for 15+ volunteer positions. Also, the city will begin its charter review process. - Proposed Action Items (5–8): - CB 2508-42 (Forest Park Pickleball Court): second reading; final reading August 27. - CB 2508-43 (Lion’s Park Lighting Project): second reading; final reading August 27. Councilmember Zarlingo noted this is part of broader investments including Boys & Girls Clubs and future housing. - CB 2508-44 (Closing Walter E. Hall Community Amenities project): second reading. - CB 2508-45 (Municipal Court Access Control Installation): first reading; final reading September 3. - Graffiti Ordinance (CB 2507-41): Third reading, with amendments. Councilmember Ryan offered amendments: - Section A: fine of $250 per violation and restitution for abatement costs. - Section B: defense if tagger had express permission. - Section D: parents/guardians of juveniles aged 16–17 liable for restitution. - Friendly amendments added: “or other extenuating circumstances” for hardship; and community restitution included. Councilmember Ryan expressed desire for a broader strategy including a free graffiti wall and prevention efforts. Downtown Everett Association reported removing 2,000 tags in 2025 year-to-date. The ordinance passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved unanimously. - Proposed action items (5–7) advanced to third reading on August 27, 2025; item 8 to third reading on September 3, 2025. - Graffiti ordinance (CB 2507-41) passed 6-0 as amended, creating a civil infraction for illegal graffiti with fines, restitution, and parental liability for juveniles. - Executive session (10 minutes) held to discuss workers’ compensation settlement. Council approved settlement with former firefighter Jason Haig for $83,000. - Council directed administration to: - Review Compass Health financial contracts for unmet obligations. - Provide update on emphasis patrols and neighborhood improvements near Andy’s Place. - Continue work on a free legal graffiti wall. - Report back on efforts to support the Fred Meyer closure area, including transit and grocery access.

The Budget & Finance Committee of the Everett City Council met on August 20, 2025, to review the year-to-date general government budget performance as of June 2025, discuss financial forecasting and its impact on the budget deficit, and review the contingency reserve (rainy day fund). Presentations were delivered by Finance Director Heidi Berlantez and Assistant Director Jamie Lee Graves. Committee members asked questions and discussed the city's fiscal position, including revenue trends, expenditure discipline, and the structural deficit. Discussion Items - Year-to-Date Budget Performance (June 2025): Revenues exceeded year-to-date projections by $2,253,177 (2.8%), driven primarily by Business and Occupation (B&O) tax receipts which were up 7.9%. Sales tax receipts were 1.5% below projections. Expenditures were $4.8 million (5.8%) under budget. Overall, B&O tax comprises 13% of general fund revenue, sales tax 24%, and property tax 25%. Council President Schwab commended the finance team for conservative forecasting. Councilmember Fogley inquired about the breakdown between brick-and-mortar and online sales tax collections. Councilmember Ryan clarified that online sales tax is based on delivery location, but B&O tax on local operations remains. - Financial Forecasting and Budget Deficit: The presentation showed how the projected deficit has evolved since 2021. A red line illustrated the deficit would have grown each year without action, while a green line showed the deficit decreasing to zero in 2025 due to annual budget adjustments. Reasons for changing projections include: forecasts are not static; prior cuts carry forward; economic conditions drive revenue volatility; and structural cost pressures cause expenses to grow faster than revenues. Councilmember Mazarello discussed the 1% property tax limit compared to CPI and construction cost indexes, noting that city costs often outpace revenue growth. - Contingency Reserve (Rainy Day Fund): The estimated 2025 balance is approximately $3.87 million, separate from the 20% general government ending fund balance requirement. The legal cap under RCW is 37.5 cents per $1,000 of assessed value, equating to roughly $10 million. Councilmember Single noted that short-term cuts can be destructive to municipal operations. Councilmember Bogley asked about funding mechanisms (original budget or amendment). Councilmember Salingo suggested reviewing historical usage over the past 20–25 years to inform future policy. Council President Schwab noted that setting a rainy day fund policy would be a future conversation after addressing the structural budget deficit. Key Outcomes - The committee received the presentations and discussed the city's financial status. No formal votes or decisions were taken. - The finance team will provide an updated six-year financial outlook in the September budget committee meeting. - Council members expressed interest in developing a formal policy for the rainy day fund, with potential targets up to the statutory cap, contingent on resolving the structural deficit.

The Everett City Council held its regular meeting on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included approval of consent items, first and third readings of several ordinances, and updates on city programs including the EMOTE mobile crisis response and a new housing strategy. A technical amendment was flagged for the graffiti ordinance, and a $360,000 skate dot project for Lion's Park was approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes of August 6, 2025 (unanimous). - Items 1–9 (minus item 8, removed from agenda) passed unanimously: 1. Claims resolution ($5,897,831.32). 2. Payroll claims resolution ($5,678,852.50). 3. Aquatic Lands Lease Agreement with WA DNR. 4. EMOTE City-Conquer Amendment No. 2. 5. EMOTE Health Care Authority Amendment No. 1. 6. Certificate of Completion for Everett Transit Inductive Charging Project. 7. Professional Services Agreement with HDR Engineering for stormwater study. 8. (Removed – Green Transportation Grant Agreement moved to Aug. 20 agenda.) 9. Emergency resolution for fire engine J0142 repairs and fleet security upgrades. Public Comments & Testimony - Brandon Islab (District 2, Seattle code revisor) commented on Item 10 (graffiti ordinance), noting the bill appeared to copy Seattle’s code and lacked proper localization. He proposed a technical amendment to correct the phrase “responsible public or private party” to “responsible public agency or responsible private party.” President Schwab suggested he work with staff on final language for the Aug. 20 third reading. Discussion Items - Council Comments - Councilmember Ryan reported on the Parks & Built Environment Committee meeting: a 2026–2030 housing strategy update (10 pillars) will be presented in September. A draft resolution on multi-use stadium priorities (economic development, labor standards, etc.) was reviewed and will be amended by committee members before returning to council. - Councilmember Tuai reminded residents of the Fresh Paint Festival downtown that weekend. - Vice President Zarlingo updated on Snohomish County Tomorrow’s transportation and infrastructure focus; a summary is due in October. - Administrative Update (Mayor’s report) - Vehicle replacement procedures: a 10‑year list based on a scoring system (age, mileage, cost, condition); department representatives meet annually to verify replacements. - EMOTE program update: since launch in July 2024, the team has made 601 meaningful contacts, completed 45 substance use disorder assessments, made 375 inpatient rehab referrals, 54 detox placements, and 293 referrals to outpatient treatment. - Budget committee schedule: next meeting Aug. 20 at 5:30 PM will cover financial highlights and rainy day fund; 2026 deficit numbers will be ready in September. - Councilmember Ryan requested an update on COVID recovery funds (balance and upcoming allocations). - City Attorney Report - A new Purdue Pharma opioid settlement proposal will be brought to council for authorization (previous settlement rejected by bankruptcy court). - The city will receive approximately $316,000 from cumulative opioid settlements with distributors, producers, and pharmacies. - Proposed Action Items (First Readings) - Item 11 – Forest Park Pickleball Court Installation (amends existing project); third reading Aug. 27. - Item 12 – Lion’s Park Lighting Project (new project); third reading Aug. 27. - Item 13 – Closing Walter E. Hall Community Amenities special improvement project; third reading Aug. 27. - Item 10 – Graffiti ordinance (CB 2507-41): Second reading with proposed amendments. Councilmember Bader asked about juvenile restitution for victims under 16. Staff clarified that for those under 15, civil lawsuits against parents are possible; city court lacks jurisdiction over juveniles. Councilmember Ryan noted her suggested change from “the courts will pursue” to “may pursue” was included. Third and final reading with technical amendment set for Aug. 20. Key Outcomes - Consent items (1–7, 9) passed unanimously. - Item 10 (graffiti ordinance) advanced to third reading on Aug. 20 with a pending technical amendment. - Items 11, 12, 13 introduced and set for third reading on Aug. 27. - Item 14 – Lion’s Park Skate Dot project (CB 2507-40) adopted unanimously on third reading. The $360,000 project is partially funded by Snohomish County Councilmember Megan Dunn’s REACH dollars. - No executive session. Meeting adjourned.