Jon Walker

The meeting focused on the Wastewater Treatment Plant Facilities Master Plan, where a phasing approach for plant updates was presented to address growth and operational needs. Additionally, updates were provided regarding an Economic Development meeting, and the Finance Committee reported a decline in license and franchise fees, as well as general permitting and construction fees.

The City Council Work Session included a presentation regarding a ballot measure for the Port of Everett boundary enlargement, providing details on property tax implications, economic development, and community impact. The Community Development Department presented a quarterly project update. New business items addressed the authorization for the Housing Authority of Snohomish County to operate within the city, an amendment to an interlocal cooperation agreement for affordable housing coordination, a professional services agreement for the railroad overcrossing project design, the Strawberry Festival permit, property deed transfer for a lift station, an access agreement amendment, and an ordinance amendment regarding capital improvement charges. An executive session was held to discuss property acquisition and potential litigation, followed by council action to execute an agreement with Huseby Homes, LLC.

The meeting included a grant award presentation from Snohomish County and public comments regarding concerns over a planned housing development, specifically regarding traffic congestion and safety. The Council approved a professional services agreement for a golf course irrigation replacement project and an interlocal agreement with the Tulalip Tribes concerning an overcrossing project. Councilmembers provided updates on various committee reports, including public safety, finance, and regional intergovernmental meetings. An executive session was held to review the performance of public employees.

The council meeting included a proclamation for Native American Indian Heritage Month, the approval of various financial claims and payroll transactions, and multiple public hearings regarding the 2025-2026 biennial budget, the property tax levy, and new utility rates for water, sewer, and surface water. Key items addressed included the adoption of ordinances for utility rates and the repeal of a municipal code chapter concerning utility taxes. Additionally, the council reviewed the 2024-2029 school district capital facilities plans, held a presentation on the 2024 comprehensive plan update, and approved an ordinance defining malicious mischief as a public disorder crime. Further actions involved authorizing an emergency management performance grant and the renewal of stop-loss insurance, alongside the adoption of state and federal legislative priority packets.

The council reviewed contract awards for a water service line inventory and the Ebey Waterfront Trail Phase IV-A project. Key agenda items included the renewal of a Facility of Opportunity memorandum of understanding with the community food bank, a subrecipient grant agreement for criminal history improvements, and the procurement of a utility vehicle. The council also discussed various infrastructure preservation agreements for State Avenue and 116th Street, professional service agreements for flood control and pedestrian safety, and a proposed ordinance to rename the 19th Avenue Connector. Additionally, an ordinance amendment to the biennial budget concerning compensation tables and administrative title changes was reviewed.