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Category: Everett Government

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  • Snohomish County Charter Review 2026: The Complete Guide to All Five Proposals, the May Hearings, and the November Ballot Path

    Quick answer: The Snohomish County 2026 Charter Review Commission has narrowed two dozen submissions to five proposed amendments — non-partisan offices (Proposal 5), foundational-services budget priority (Proposal 13), a budget stabilization fund (Proposal 14), a four-vote supermajority to raise taxes (Proposal 21), and a financial transparency portal (Proposal 22). Three public hearings (May 13 in Arlington, May 20 in Monroe, May 27 in Mountlake Terrace, all 5:30 p.m.) precede the commission’s May 29 final vote. What survives goes to the County Council, then to the November 2026 ballot.

    The charter review only happens once every ten years, and the window for shaping it closes faster than most Snohomish County residents realize. By May 29, 2026, the 15-member elected commission will have voted on which amendments leave the workshop and head to the County Council. Anything that survives that vote gets a second round of public hearings at the council level before landing on the November 2026 ballot. Anything that doesn’t survive May 29 disappears — and waits another ten years for the next review cycle.

    For Everett residents — the largest single block of voters in Snohomish County — the five amendments now on the table cover three distinct decisions about how the county is governed: how candidates appear on the ballot, how the budget gets built, and how taxes get raised. None of them are technical housekeeping. All five would change the daily mechanics of county government in ways residents would feel within one budget cycle.

    The May 2026 Hearing Schedule

    The commission has scheduled three public hearings, all at 5:30 p.m., specifically chosen to give residents at the north, east, and south ends of the county a reachable venue:

    • Wednesday, May 13 — Arlington City Hall, 238 N. Olympia Ave., Arlington (north county)
    • Wednesday, May 20 — Monroe City Hall, 806 W. Main St., Monroe (east county)
    • Wednesday, May 27 — Mountlake Terrace City Hall, 23204 58th Ave. W., Mountlake Terrace (south county)

    For Everett residents, Mountlake Terrace on May 27 is the geographically closest option. Public testimony at any of the three hearings counts equally — you don’t have to attend the one nearest your address, and a single resident can testify at all three. Written comments are also accepted on the commission’s webpage and read into the record.

    The commission’s May 29 final adoption vote is the hard deadline. Anything not approved by that vote does not move forward to the council.

    Proposal 5 — Non-Partisan Offices

    Proposal 5 would strip the party-preference label from the ballot for three offices: County Executive, County Prosecutor, and County Councilmember. Today, every candidate for those offices appears with a party preference next to their name (the format Washington state uses since the 2008 top-two primary system). Under Proposal 5, those three offices would join the county’s existing nonpartisan offices on the ballot.

    Supporters argue local executive and council races are about local issues — public safety, parks, transit, taxes — and that party labels distract voters from the candidate’s actual record. Opponents argue party preference is one of the few quick signals voters get about a candidate’s broader values, and stripping it makes lower-information races harder to navigate.

    The Sheriff, Treasurer, Assessor, Auditor, and Clerk are already nonpartisan in Snohomish County under the current charter. Proposal 5 would extend that model to the three remaining partisan executive and legislative offices.

    Proposal 13 — Foundational Government Services Funded First

    Proposal 13 would amend the charter to require the County Council, when building the annual budget, to fund “foundational government services” before allocating any discretionary spending. The proposal does not itself define what “foundational” means — implementation language would set that — but the structural change locks core services into a priority position.

    The practical effect would be felt in lean budget years. When revenue falls short of projection, discretionary programs (community grants, optional pilot programs, certain quality-of-life investments) would absorb the cuts first. Public safety, jails, courts, elections, and statutorily required services would be insulated from across-the-board reductions.

    For residents, this is essentially a ratchet against the kind of budget brinksmanship that has played out in other Washington counties during downturns. The trade-off: discretionary programs lose a layer of negotiating leverage, because the council is constitutionally bound to fund the foundational tier first.

    Proposal 14 — Budget Stabilization Fund

    Proposal 14 would create a county budget stabilization fund — what most governments call a “rainy-day fund” — for emergencies, with a key procedural detail: drawing money out of the fund would require four affirmative votes from the five-member County Council.

    The four-vote threshold matters. It means a single councilmember can’t block emergency use (because four out of five is still possible without one holdout), but a bare majority of three can’t drain it for routine spending. The fund is structurally protected against erosion in normal years and structurally available in a real emergency.

    Snohomish County does not currently have a charter-protected stabilization fund. Reserves exist as a budget line item, which means each council session can revisit them. Under Proposal 14, the fund’s existence and the supermajority withdrawal rule would be embedded in the charter itself.

    Proposal 21 — Supermajority to Raise Taxes

    Proposal 21 is the proposal most likely to generate the loudest public response in either direction. It would raise the threshold for the County Council to approve any tax increase to four affirmative votes. Today, three votes — a simple majority of the five-member council — can pass a tax increase. Under Proposal 21, four would be required.

    The political reality: a four-vote supermajority is materially harder to assemble than a three-vote majority. In a council that is closely divided, Proposal 21 would effectively require any tax increase to draw cross-faction support before it could pass.

    Supporters frame this as a brake on tax growth and a forcing function for broader political consensus. Opponents — including some who otherwise favor fiscal restraint — point out that the rule cuts both ways: in a downturn, when emergency revenue is most needed to maintain services, a single dissenting councilmember could block a tax patch even if four out of five would otherwise approve it.

    Proposal 22 — Financial Transparency Portal

    Proposal 22 would require the county to create and maintain a public financial transparency portal — a structured online interface where residents can look up county spending, contracts, employee compensation, and budget detail without filing public records requests. The portal model exists in several Washington jurisdictions and at the state level (the State Auditor’s “Open Data” portal); Proposal 22 would charter-mandate it for Snohomish County.

    The implementation cost is real but modest, and several vendors offer turnkey portals built to government-data standards. The longer-term effect, if Proposal 22 passes, is that journalists, candidates, advocacy groups, and individual residents would have continuous access to county financial data without going through a public records officer for every question.

    What Comes After May 29

    Anything the commission approves on May 29 is transmitted to the Snohomish County Council, which holds its own round of public hearings before placing the amendments on the November 2026 general election ballot. The council does not have authority to rewrite the commission’s amendments — that’s a key feature of the home-rule charter review process — but the council does choose how the amendments are described on the ballot summary.

    That ballot summary language matters. Voters typically see the summary, not the full amendment text, when they fill out their ballot. The council’s hearings on summary language are the second meaningful opportunity for resident input.

    Then, in November 2026, all five amendments — or however many survive May 29 — go on the same ballot as the contested County Council races, the August 4 primary survivors, and the city of Everett’s own separate charter review questions (covered in our 2026 Dual Charter Review explainer). It is the most consequential local ballot Snohomish County voters will see this decade.

    How to Participate Before May 29

    The commission accepts written comment through its webpage, accepts in-person testimony at the three May hearings, and posts meeting recordings publicly. Residents who can’t attend a hearing can still submit written comment that becomes part of the record.

    For those tracking how this connects to other 2026 Snohomish County decisions, see our 2026 Primary Voter Guide and our earlier charter review preview.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is the Snohomish County Charter Review Commission?

    It’s a 15-member elected body that reviews the county’s home-rule charter every ten years. Members were elected by voters in November 2025 and began their work in January 2026. Their job is to recommend amendments to the charter — the county’s foundational governance document — that would then go to the County Council and ultimately to the voters.

    When are the May 2026 public hearings?

    Wednesday, May 13 at Arlington City Hall (238 N. Olympia Ave.), Wednesday, May 20 at Monroe City Hall (806 W. Main St.), and Wednesday, May 27 at Mountlake Terrace City Hall (23204 58th Ave. W.). All three start at 5:30 p.m.

    What happens on May 29?

    That’s the commission’s final adoption vote. Any amendment approved by the commission on May 29 gets transmitted to the Snohomish County Council for further hearings and eventual placement on the November 2026 ballot. Any amendment not approved by May 29 dies and waits for the next review cycle in 2036.

    What are the five proposals on the table?

    Proposal 5 (non-partisan offices for Executive, Prosecutor, and Councilmember), Proposal 13 (foundational government services funded first in the budget), Proposal 14 (budget stabilization fund with four-vote withdrawal rule), Proposal 21 (four-vote supermajority required to raise taxes), and Proposal 22 (mandatory public financial transparency portal).

    Can I testify at all three hearings?

    Yes. A single resident may testify at any or all of the three hearings, and the commission counts each testimony equally. You can also submit written comment through the commission’s webpage and have it entered into the record.

    What’s the difference between Proposal 14 and Proposal 21’s four-vote rules?

    Proposal 14’s four-vote rule applies to withdrawing money from the budget stabilization fund (preventing routine drawdown). Proposal 21’s four-vote rule applies to raising taxes in any form (raising the threshold from a simple majority of three). They are structurally similar but apply to opposite kinds of decisions.

    How does this connect to Everett’s separate charter review?

    The City of Everett is conducting its own charter review on a parallel track in 2026, focused on the city charter rather than the county charter. Both could appear on the November 2026 ballot. See our 2026 Dual Charter Review explainer for the full comparison.

  • Snohomish County Charter Review: Five Proposals, Three Hearings in May, and a May 29 Deadline

    Five proposals could change how Snohomish County governs itself — and Everett-area residents have three Wednesday evenings in May to weigh in before any of them head to the November ballot.

    The county’s 2026 Charter Review Commission, the 15-member elected body that meets every ten years to evaluate the county’s home-rule charter, has narrowed its working list down to five amendments that could appear on the November 2026 general election ballot. Three public hearings — May 13 in Arlington, May 20 in Monroe, and May 27 in Mountlake Terrace — give residents a chance to comment in person before the commission’s May 29 final vote.

    That timeline matters because what comes out of those May meetings is what the County Council will then take up for its own public hearings, and what voters will eventually see on their ballots in November.

    When are the Snohomish County Charter Review Commission’s public hearings? The commission has scheduled three public hearings, all at 5:30 p.m.: Wednesday, May 13 at Arlington City Hall (238 N. Olympia Ave.); Wednesday, May 20 at Monroe City Hall (806 W. Main St.); and Wednesday, May 27 at Mountlake Terrace City Hall (23204 58th Ave. W.). The commission must adopt its final package of charter amendments by May 29. Approved amendments are transmitted to the County Council for additional hearings before being placed on the November 2026 ballot.

    The Five Proposals on the Table

    The commission has been working through more than two dozen proposals submitted by commissioners and members of the public since January. Five made it to the public-hearing phase. Here is what each one would do, in plain language.

    Proposal 5 — Non-Partisan Offices

    Proposal 5 would make the offices of County Executive, County Prosecutor and County Councilmember nonpartisan. Today, candidates for those offices appear on ballots with a party preference next to their name. If voters approved Proposal 5, that party label would go away for those three offices.

    Supporters argue nonpartisan offices encourage candidates to focus on local issues over party loyalty. Opponents argue party labels give voters useful information about a candidate’s broader values. The commission has heard versions of this argument throughout the spring.

    Proposal 13 — Foundational Government Services

    Proposal 13 would require the County Council, when it builds the annual budget, to fund "foundational government services" first, before any discretionary spending. The proposal does not redefine what counts as foundational — that detail would be worked out in implementation — but the structural change would lock in certain services as priority spending categories.

    For residents, the practical effect would be felt in years where the county budget is tight: discretionary programs would be the first cuts, and core services would be protected from across-the-board reductions.

    Proposal 14 — Budget Stabilization Fund

    Proposal 14 would create a county budget stabilization fund — sometimes called a rainy-day fund — for emergencies. Drawing money out of the fund would require four affirmative votes from the five-member County Council. That four-vote threshold matters because it means a single councilmember could not block emergency use, but neither could a bare majority drain it for routine spending.

    Proposal 21 — Supermajority to Raise Taxes

    Proposal 21 would raise the threshold to four affirmative votes of the County Council to raise taxes. The Snohomish County Council has five members, so today three votes can pass a tax increase. Under Proposal 21, four would be required — making any tax increase a supermajority decision.

    This is the proposal most likely to generate the loudest public response in either direction. Residents who want it harder for the council to raise taxes will support it. Residents who worry about the council’s ability to fund services during downturns may oppose it.

    Proposal 22 — Financial Transparency Portal

    Proposal 22 would create and expand a county financial transparency portal — a public-facing website where residents can look up how the county is spending its money. The exact features and timing of the portal would be set in implementing legislation, but the charter amendment would put the obligation in the county’s foundational document rather than leaving it to whichever council majority happens to be in office.

    The Three Hearings: Where, When, How to Show Up

    All three hearings start at 5:30 p.m. and run as combined public hearings on the proposed charter amendments. Each location was chosen to give different parts of the county a hearing closer to home, so the commission rotates rather than holding all three meetings in one place.

    Wednesday, May 13 — Arlington City Hall, 238 N. Olympia Ave., Arlington. This is the first hearing in the May series.

    Wednesday, May 20 — Monroe City Hall, 806 W. Main St., Monroe. Designated as a special meeting/public hearing on the official commission calendar.

    Wednesday, May 27 — Mountlake Terrace City Hall, 23204 58th Ave. W., Mountlake Terrace. The final hearing of the public-comment phase.

    For Everett residents who can’t make any of the three in-person locations, the commission’s regular meetings — including those public hearings — are also held remotely via Zoom. The webinar link is https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88308932549, meeting ID 883-0893 2549. Audio-only call-in numbers are 1-253-215-8782 or 1-206-337-9723.

    What Happens After May 29

    Under the commission’s working timeline, the final vote on the package of recommended amendments takes place on or before May 29. After that, the commission’s recommendations are transmitted to the Snohomish County Council, which holds its own additional public hearings before deciding which amendments to place on the November 2026 general election ballot.

    The County Council does not have the authority to rewrite the commission’s proposals — its role is to send them to the voters or decline to. Anything the council places on the ballot then goes to county voters in November, and a simple majority approves or rejects each amendment individually.

    Why Charter Review Matters

    Snohomish County is one of seven charter counties in Washington State, meaning it operates under its own home-rule charter rather than the default state county-government structure. The charter was adopted in 1980 and has been amended in 1986, 1996, 2006, and 2016 — roughly every decade.

    The 2026 Charter Review Commission was elected by voters in the November 2025 general election. The commission has 15 members, three from each of the county’s five council districts, all serving unpaid one-year terms that began January 1, 2026. The commission is chaired by Brett Gailey of District 5, with Mark James of District 1 serving as vice-chair. Peter Condyles serves as commission coordinator.

    The commission’s work is the only formal mechanism in the charter for proposing structural changes to county government. Anything residents want to change about how the county council, executive, prosecutor or other county offices operate at a structural level has to either come through this commission or wait for the next one a decade from now.

    What To Do Next

    If one or more of the five proposals matters to you, you have four ways to make your voice heard before May 29:

    1. Attend a hearing in person. All three are open to the public, no registration required. Public comment is accepted during the meeting.
    2. Attend remotely via Zoom or phone. Use the webinar link or the call-in numbers above. Public comment is also accepted from remote participants.
    3. Email written comments to commission coordinator Peter Condyles at peter.condyles@snoco.org. Written comments are distributed to commissioners.
    4. Contact a commissioner directly. Each of the 15 commissioners is listed by district on the official Charter Review Commission page at snohomishcountywa.gov/3520/Charter-Review-Commission, with email addresses for each.

    The commission’s full proposal documents — the actual draft charter language for each of the five proposals — are linked from the same official page. Reading the actual draft text matters; press summaries, including this one, are necessarily compressed.

    For Everett-specific civic context, see our prior coverage of the parallel Snohomish County Charter Review process from April, the city’s separate Everett Charter Review Committee, and the Snohomish County 2026 Primary Voter Guide for the August 4 races also on this year’s ballot path.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Are the Snohomish County and Everett charter reviews the same thing?

    No. The City of Everett has its own Charter Review Committee — a 15-member appointed body — that reviews the city charter. The Snohomish County Charter Review Commission is a separate 15-member elected body that reviews the county charter. Different governments, different charters, different processes, both on the November 2026 ballot.

    Do all five proposals automatically end up on the November ballot?

    No. The commission must first adopt its final package by May 29. Then the County Council holds its own hearings before deciding which proposals to place on the ballot. Each approved proposal is voted on individually by Snohomish County voters in November.

    Can residents submit new proposals at the May hearings?

    The deadline for new proposed amendments from the public was noon on April 8, 2026. The May hearings are for public comment on the five proposals already advanced.

    How is Proposal 14 different from Proposal 21?

    Proposal 14 creates an emergency reserve fund and requires four council votes to spend from it. Proposal 21 requires four council votes to raise taxes. Both use the same four-vote threshold, but they govern different actions.

    When does the County Council take up the commission’s final package?

    The official timeline says recommendations are transmitted to the council after May 29, with council public hearings to follow. Specific council hearing dates have not yet been set as of publication and will be posted to snohomishcountywa.gov when scheduled.

    Where can I read the actual draft text of each proposal?

    All five proposal documents are linked directly from the Charter Review Commission’s official page at snohomishcountywa.gov/3520/Charter-Review-Commission.

    Who is on the commission?

    Fifteen commissioners — three from each of the five council districts — were elected in November 2025. Chair Brett Gailey (District 5) and Vice-Chair Mark James (District 1) lead the commission. The full roster is on the official commission page.

  • For Boeing and Paine Field Workers: Your August 4 Primary Voter Guide for the Races That Affect Your Job, Your Commute, and Everett’s Aerospace Economy

    For Boeing and Paine Field Workers: Your August 4 Primary Voter Guide for the Races That Affect Your Job, Your Commute, and Everett’s Aerospace Economy

    For Boeing and Paine Field workers: Filing week closed May 8. The August 4 primary is set. Here is the voter guide for the races that directly affect your job, your commute, and Everett’s defense and aerospace economy — starting with the Congressional District 2 race that puts NAVSTA Everett funding, KC-46 program oversight, and Sound Transit Everett Link authorization in the same congressional office.

    The Race That Matters Most for Paine Field: CD-2

    Congressional District 2 covers Everett and Snohomish County. It is the district that Rick Larsen has held since 2001, and his committee assignments make this the congressional seat most directly connected to Paine Field’s legislative environment: House Armed Services Committee (KC-46 program, defense aerospace contracts, NAVSTA Everett funding advocacy), House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee (FAA oversight, which affects Boeing’s aircraft certification timelines and the 777X and 777-8F programs), and the broader portfolio of Sound Transit Everett Link Extension authorization that affects how workers get to and from Paine Field.

    Four challengers filed to face Larsen: Edwin H. Feller (R), DevinErmanson (D), Raymond Pelletti (R), and Tomas Scheel (D). Washington’s top-two primary means Larsen and the strongest challenger — most likely the Republican with the consolidated right-of-center vote — will be the November matchup. As an aerospace worker, the question worth asking in the primary: which candidate, if elected, has the committee positioning, institutional knowledge, and district relationships to be effective on the specific federal policy levers that affect Paine Field?

    What CD-2 Controls That Paine Field Workers Should Know

    KC-46 follow-on procurement: The Air Force has paused KC-46 follow-on orders pending resolution of outstanding technical issues. The Armed Services Committee, where Larsen serves, has oversight jurisdiction over that procurement pause and the conditions under which it is resolved. KC-46 tanker line production volume at Paine Field depends in part on how that procurement resumes.

    NAVSTA Everett and FF(X) homeport advocacy: The Navy’s FY27 budget has now officially funded the FF(X) frigate with a late-2028 launch target and spring-2030 delivery. Whether Naval Station Everett is designated as homeport for those frigates is a decision that will move through the defense policy apparatus — the Armed Services Committee is where that advocacy happens at the federal level.

    Sound Transit Everett Link authorization: The Sound Transit board’s proposal to end Sounder North commuter service in 2033 — leaving Everett without a direct Seattle rail connection until Link arrives — makes the federal authorization and funding for the Everett Link extension more time-sensitive. The Transportation Committee has jurisdiction here. For Paine Field workers who commute from south King County or north Everett, this is a commute-pattern question.

    District 38: The State Legislature Races Covering Everett

    District 38 covers Everett directly. The state legislative races here affect Washington’s workforce training programs (which fund aerospace retraining at Everett Community College and Sno-Isle Tech), Washington’s unemployment insurance policy (relevant if a layoff follows the 767 close in 2027), labor law (affecting Boeing’s bargaining environment alongside SPEEA’s October 2026 contract expiration), and aerospace industry B&O tax incentives that influence Boeing’s Washington production decisions.

    State Sen. June Robinson (D) faces Brad Bender (R). In the House, Rep. Julio Cortes (D) faces Annie Fitzgerald (D) and Thomas Kelly (Cascade) in a three-way Position 1 race. Cortes represents the Everett district directly; his committee assignments in the state legislature determine which of these workforce and aerospace policy issues he can move.

    The EMS Levy: Affects Everett Residents, Not All Paine Field Workers

    The Everett EMS levy lid lift (Proposition No. 1) is on the August 4 ballot for Everett city residents only. If you live in Everett, you vote on it. If you live in unincorporated Snohomish County, Mukilteo, Lynnwood, or elsewhere outside city limits, you do not. The levy question is about whether Everett’s EMS tax levy is adjusted above the existing lid to fund expanded emergency medical services. For aerospace workers who own property in Everett, this directly affects the property tax bill.

    How and When to Vote

    Ballots mail July 15. Return by 8 PM August 4 — by mail or drop box. Voter registration deadline: July 27. Register or check registration at sos.wa.gov or Snohomish County Elections Office, 3000 Rockefeller Ave, Everett. If your work schedule puts you in the factory during ballot-return hours, Washington’s mail ballot system means you can return your ballot anytime in the three-week window before August 4.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Which primary race most affects Boeing workers?

    Congressional District 2 — the seat covering Everett and Paine Field. Includes Armed Services Committee jurisdiction over KC-46 procurement and NAVSTA Everett homeport advocacy.

    When do ballots mail?

    July 15. Return by 8 PM August 4. Registration deadline: July 27.

    Who is running against Larsen in CD-2?

    Edwin H. Feller (R), Devin Hermanson (D), Raymond Pelletti (R), Tomas Scheel (D).

    Does the EMS levy affect Paine Field workers?

    Only if you live within Everett city limits. It is a property tax question for Everett residents only.

    What state races affect aerospace workforce policy?

    District 38 state legislative races — Robinson vs. Bender (Senate), Cortes vs. Fitzgerald vs. Kelly (House Position 1). These affect workforce training programs, labor law, and aerospace B&O tax incentives.

    Related coverage: Complete 2026 Primary Voter Guide | SPEEA 2026 Bargaining Season Guide | Sounder North Ending 2033: What It Means for Everett Commutes

  • Snohomish County 2026 Primary Voter Guide: Every Contested Race, Every Candidate, and How to Vote by August 4

    Snohomish County 2026 Primary Voter Guide: Every Contested Race, Every Candidate, and How to Vote by August 4

    Quick Answer: Washington’s 2026 candidate filing window closed May 8 at 5 PM. The August 4 primary ballot for Snohomish County is now set. Ballots mail July 15. Registration deadline: July 27. Key contested races: CD-2 (Rick Larsen vs. 4 challengers), District 38 State Senate, Snohomish County offices, and the Everett EMS levy. Here is the complete voter guide to every race and how to participate.

    How Washington’s Top-Two Primary Works

    Washington uses a nonpartisan top-two primary. All candidates for a given race appear on a single ballot regardless of party affiliation. The two candidates receiving the most votes — even if both are from the same party — advance to the November 3 general election. This system means competitive primaries can produce two Democrats or two Republicans in November, and that multi-candidate races where the opposition vote splits can reward candidates with strong base support even in nominally unfavorable districts.

    Congressional Races

    Congressional District 2 covers a large portion of Snohomish County including Everett. Incumbent Rick Larsen (D) — in office since 2001 — faces four challengers: Edwin H. Feller (R), Devin Hermanson (D), Raymond Pelletti (R), and Tomas Scheel (D). With two Democratic challengers splitting the opposition to Larsen within the party, and two Republicans competing for the right-of-center lane, CD-2 is the county’s most watched primary. Larsen’s 25-year incumbency and name recognition make him the strong favorite to advance, but his margin in the primary will signal district health heading into November.

    Congressional District 1 — covering parts of the county’s southern and eastern edges — has incumbent Suzan DelBene (D) facing five challengers: James Etzkorn (I), Hunter Gordon (D), Catherine Hildebrand (D), Benjamin Kincaid (D), Bryce Nickel (D), and Mary Silva (R). Four Democratic challengers make this the most crowded primary field in the county.

    Congressional District 8, covering the county’s eastern edge, has incumbent Kim Schrier (D) facing Keith Arnold (D), Trinh Ha (R), Bob Hagglund (R), Spencer Meline (R), and Andres Valleza (R). Three Republican challengers will split the right-of-center vote in this competitive suburban district.

    State Legislative Races: Districts That Cover Everett

    District 38 covers Everett and surrounding communities directly. State Sen. June Robinson (D) faces challenger Brad Bender (R) in the Senate race. In the House, Rep. Julio Cortes (D) faces Annie Fitzgerald (D) and Thomas (Jeff) Kelly (Cascade) in Position 1 — a three-way race with two Democratic candidates that will test Cortes’s hold on the seat. Rep. Mary Fosse (D) filed alone for Position 2 and advances automatically to the November general.

    District 44 covers Mill Creek and adjacent areas of Snohomish County. State Sen. John Lovick (D) faces Sherri Larkin (R). In the House, Rep. Brandy Donaghy (D) faces Chris Elder (R) in Position 1.

    The Everett EMS Levy — Proposition No. 1

    The City of Everett’s EMS levy lid lift — approved by the City Council to appear on the August 4 ballot — is on this primary ballot as a proposition separate from the candidate races. The levy question asks Everett voters to approve a property tax lid lift to fund expanded emergency medical services. This is the financial mechanism the City uses to sustain EMS capacity beyond what existing levy limits allow. The complete EMS levy voter guide covers what the lid lift means for homeowners and what EMS funding level the levy would sustain.

    How to Vote in the August 4 Primary

    Washington is a vote-by-mail state. All registered voters in Snohomish County will receive ballots by mail beginning July 15. The ballot must be returned — by mail or drop box — by 8 PM on August 4. The voter registration deadline for this election is July 27; same-day registration is not available for mail ballots.

    To check registration status, update an address, or register: sos.wa.gov or the Snohomish County Elections Office at 3000 Rockefeller Ave, Everett. Drop box locations will be published by the Elections Office ahead of the July 15 ballot mailing.

    What Everett Voters Should Know About CD-2

    Congressional District 2 is the race with the most direct connection to Everett’s federal priorities — NAVSTA Everett funding advocacy, FF(X) frigate homeport lobbying, Sound Transit Everett Link Extension authorization, and Boeing workforce policy all flow through the CD-2 congressional office. Rep. Larsen has been the incumbent on all of those issues for 25 years. The primary will establish whether any challenger can consolidate enough support to pose a genuine November challenge in what has historically been a safely Democratic district at the congressional level.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    When is the 2026 Snohomish County primary?

    August 4, 2026. Ballots mail July 15. Registration deadline July 27.

    Who is running against Rick Larsen?

    Edwin H. Feller (R), Devin Hermanson (D), Raymond Pelletti (R), Tomas Scheel (D). Four challengers in CD-2.

    What is on the Everett August 4 ballot besides candidates?

    The EMS levy lid lift (Proposition No. 1) — Everett voters decide whether to approve a property tax increase to fund expanded EMS.

    How does the top-two primary work?

    All candidates appear on one ballot regardless of party. Top two vote-getters advance to November, even if both are from the same party.

    What District 38 races are contested?

    Senate: June Robinson (D) vs. Brad Bender (R). House Position 1: Julio Cortes (D) vs. Annie Fitzgerald (D) vs. Thomas Kelly (Cascade). House Position 2: Mary Fosse (D) — runs unopposed, advances to November automatically.

    Where do I drop off my ballot in Everett?

    Drop box locations will be published at snohomishcountywa.gov ahead of the July 15 ballot mailing. The Elections Office is at 3000 Rockefeller Ave, Everett.

    Related coverage: Everett EMS Levy Complete Voter Guide | 2026 Dual Charter Review Voter Guide | Candidate Filing Window Opens: What to Know

  • For Military Families at NAVSTA Everett: Your 2026 Guide to Everett Gospel Mission Services When a Family Member Needs Emergency Help

    For Military Families at NAVSTA Everett: Your 2026 Guide to Everett Gospel Mission Services When a Family Member Needs Emergency Help

    For military families at NAVSTA Everett: Everett Gospel Mission at 3711 Smith Ave is the county’s essential emergency resource — the only men’s shelter in Snohomish County, with women’s shelter and a family option in Lowell. A $30 million expansion starting fall 2026 will nearly double capacity to 172 beds. If a family member is in crisis, here is how EGM fits into the NAVSTA Everett support landscape — and when to go there first versus when to call FFSC.

    The Resource Map for Military Families in Crisis

    NAVSTA Everett’s Fleet and Family Support Center at (425) 304-3735 is the first call for most family emergencies — financial crisis, food insecurity, housing instability, mental health needs. FFSC can make warm referrals to community resources and can connect families with Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society emergency funds, which provide interest-free loans and grants specifically for military families. FFSC is the on-ramp.

    But FFSC isn’t a shelter. It isn’t a food bank. When the crisis is immediate — a family member needs a bed tonight, a meal today, a place to go right now — the community infrastructure picks up where the installation leaves off. Everett Gospel Mission is the most significant part of that community infrastructure for families facing acute housing or food emergency.

    What EGM Offers Military Families Specifically

    EGM serves anyone in Snohomish County — military family status is not a eligibility requirement, and it is not a disqualifier. A sailor’s spouse facing housing crisis during a deployment can walk into EGM. A veteran family member struggling with addiction can access EGM’s recovery programming. A family with children can be referred to EGM’s Lowell neighborhood family shelter.

    The three resources military families most often need from EGM: emergency shelter for a family member in crisis, meals during a financial emergency, and recovery support for a veteran or family member dealing with addiction. All three are available at 3711 Smith Ave, (425) 740-2500, egmission.org.

    During Deployment: When You Need Community Resources

    Deployment is when community infrastructure matters most for military families. FFSC provides pre-deployment financial planning workshops specifically to help families avoid crisis during extended separations. But emergencies happen. If a deployment-season crisis requires resources beyond what FFSC can provide directly, EGM is one of the closest and most comprehensive community options in Everett’s south side — less than four miles from the main gate.

    For food specifically: EGM’s meal service is available without proof of military status or crisis documentation. If a family is going through a tight month — a delayed LES, an unexpected car repair — the meal resource is there without paperwork. The VOAWW food bank in Everett operates similarly. The 2026 resident resource guide covers both in detail.

    The $30 Million Expansion and What It Means

    EGM’s expansion — 172 beds in a facility three times the current size, construction starting fall 2026, first phase complete for the 2027 cold season — increases the county’s crisis infrastructure capacity at a moment when demand is rising. For military families, a more robust community safety net means there is more buffer between a deployment-season emergency and a genuine crisis that requires installation resources.

    The expansion also adds surge capacity: up to 64 additional beds during severe weather events. That surge capacity is specifically designed for moments when the baseline shelter system is overwhelmed. For families of sailors deployed during Everett winters, knowing that community shelter capacity is increasing is direct practical news.

    Additional Family Support Resources in Everett

    The Boys & Girls Club of Snohomish County serves military kids during deployment. The BGC military family guide covers after-school care, Power Hour homework help, and summer programming for children of deployed parents. The VA claims resources guide — updated for the 2026 Vet Center change — covers healthcare access for veterans in the household.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can military families use EGM services?

    Yes. EGM serves anyone in Snohomish County. Military status is not required and does not exclude. Call (425) 740-2500 or walk in at 3711 Smith Ave.

    Who do I call first in a family crisis?

    Fleet and Family Support Center: (425) 304-3735. They make warm referrals to EGM and other community resources and connect families with Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society emergency funds.

    Is there emergency shelter for families with children near NAVSTA Everett?

    EGM’s family shelter in Everett’s Lowell neighborhood. Contact (425) 740-2500 for current availability and intake process.

    Does EGM serve women?

    Yes. Women’s shelter is on the Smith Ave campus, separate from the men’s shelter. Contact the main number: (425) 740-2500.

    Is emergency food available without documentation?

    Yes. EGM’s meal service does not require military ID, proof of residency, or documentation. Walk in or call first.

    Related coverage: EGM $30M Expansion Complete Guide | BGC Guide for Military Kids | VA Claims Guide for NAVSTA Families

  • Everett Gospel Mission’s $30 Million Expansion: The Complete 2026 Guide to Every Service, How to Get Help, and What 172 Beds Means for Snohomish County

    Everett Gospel Mission’s $30 Million Expansion: The Complete 2026 Guide to Every Service, How to Get Help, and What 172 Beds Means for Snohomish County

    Quick Answer: Everett Gospel Mission at 3711 Smith Ave is expanding from approximately 90 beds to 172 beds in a $30 million project starting fall 2026. It is the only emergency men’s shelter in Snohomish County. Construction connects two existing warehouses into one contiguous building three times the size of the current shelter, with a first-phase completion target for the 2027 cold weather season. Here is the complete guide to every service EGM provides, how to get help, how to give help, and what the expansion means for the county.

    What Everett Gospel Mission Does

    Everett Gospel Mission is a Christ-centered nonprofit that has operated on Smith Avenue in Everett’s south side for decades. Its mission is practical and daily: emergency shelter for people experiencing homelessness, meals for anyone who needs them, and recovery support for people working to rebuild their lives. EGM is not a last resort — it is a first-available resource, operating seven days a week.

    The organization’s current facility at 3711 Smith Ave houses separate emergency shelters for men and women, a family shelter nearby in Everett’s Lowell neighborhood, a day center, and staff offices. The main number is (425) 740-2500. The full resource guide is at egmission.org.

    The One Fact That Defines EGM’s County-Level Importance

    Everett Gospel Mission operates the only emergency shelter for men without families in Snohomish County. This is not a local distinction — it is a county-level infrastructure fact. When a man experiencing homelessness in Snohomish County needs a bed tonight, EGM is the option. There is no backup. A $30 million expansion of this facility is not just a nonprofit story. It is a county infrastructure story.

    Services: What EGM Provides in 2026

    Emergency Shelter: Separate shelters for men and women at the Smith Ave main campus. The men’s shelter is the only such facility in the county. Women’s shelter serves women experiencing homelessness. Both operate nightly.

    Family Shelter: EGM operates a family shelter in the Lowell neighborhood of Everett, providing emergency housing for families with children. The Smith Ave expansion will free additional capacity at the Lowell family shelter as resources are consolidated.

    Meals: EGM serves meals to people experiencing homelessness throughout the week. Holiday meals — Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and other occasions — are open to community volunteers who want to serve alongside staff. These are not closed events; faith groups and individuals regularly participate.

    Day Center: The day center on Smith Ave provides daytime space for guests to access services, connect with case managers, and work toward longer-term housing and employment goals.

    Recovery Support: EGM provides programming for men and women working through addiction and rebuilding their lives. This includes structured programming, accountability support, and connections to community resources including employment and housing placement.

    The $30 Million Expansion: What’s Actually Being Built

    The expansion connects two existing warehouses on Smith Avenue with the current shelter building by adding new structures between them. The result is one contiguous building — permit documents filed with the City of Everett show a structure approximately three times the size of the existing shelter. The expanded facility will provide 172 beds with separate spaces for men and women, plus surge capacity for up to 64 additional beds during severe weather events. That surge capacity number matters: Everett’s winters can produce demand spikes that overwhelm fixed-bed facilities.

    Construction is scheduled to begin in October or November 2026. The work will not interrupt the current shelter service — EGM remains operational throughout. The goal is to have the first phase completed in time for the cold weather season in 2027.

    How the Expansion Is Funded

    The $30 million total includes grants from the City of Everett, Snohomish County, a state budget allocation approved by the Legislature, and philanthropic donations. The Snohomish County Council’s $23 million housing and behavioral health award in April 2026 contributed $5.8 million to EGM specifically. The project has already secured significant portions of its funding — it is not a proposal waiting on money. Construction is starting in fall 2026.

    How to Get Help

    Walk-in at 3711 Smith Ave, Everett. Call (425) 740-2500. Visit egmission.org. EGM does not turn away people in crisis based on sobriety status — the organization serves people where they are. For families, the Lowell neighborhood family shelter can be accessed through the main number. For women, the women’s shelter is accessible through the same contact points. For men, the Smith Ave men’s shelter is the direct resource.

    If you are helping someone else find resources in Everett, the 2026 Everett resident guide to VOA Western Washington services and the Cocoon House guide for youth cover additional organizations serving different populations.

    How to Volunteer or Donate

    Volunteer opportunities include meal service throughout the year, holiday meal events, and skills-based support roles. Faith groups and community organizations regularly serve alongside EGM staff. Contact (425) 740-2500 or visit egmission.org to coordinate. Donations can be made at egmission.org/donate. The capital campaign for the expansion is active — this is the highest-impact moment to give if supporting the infrastructure build-out is the goal.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Where is Everett Gospel Mission?

    3711 Smith Ave, Everett, WA. Phone: (425) 740-2500. Website: egmission.org.

    Is EGM the only men’s shelter in Snohomish County?

    Yes. EGM operates the only emergency shelter for men without families in Snohomish County.

    When does construction start?

    Fall 2026 — October or November. Service continues without interruption during construction.

    How many beds after expansion?

    172 beds, plus surge capacity for 64 additional beds during severe weather.

    How is the expansion funded?

    $30M total from City of Everett grants, Snohomish County (including $5.8M from the April 2026 housing award), state Legislature allocation, and private philanthropy.

    Does EGM require sobriety to access shelter?

    EGM serves people where they are. Contact them directly at (425) 740-2500 for current intake requirements.

    Related coverage: VOAWW Complete 2026 Guide | Cocoon House Youth Services Guide | Snohomish County $23M Housing Award

  • Here’s Who Filed for Snohomish County’s August 4 Primary: Contested Races, Key Matchups, and What Everett Voters Need to Know

    Here’s Who Filed for Snohomish County’s August 4 Primary: Contested Races, Key Matchups, and What Everett Voters Need to Know

    Q: When is the 2026 primary election in Snohomish County?
    A: August 4, 2026. Ballots will be mailed July 15. The voter registration and update deadline is July 27.

    Washington’s 2026 candidate filing window closed at 5 PM Friday, May 8, and the races for the August 4 primary ballot are now set.

    Filing week ran May 4–8 at the Snohomish County Elections Office, 3000 Rockefeller Ave. in Everett, with online filing also available through the Washington Secretary of State’s portal. By Friday’s close, every race on the August primary ballot had its final candidate list.

    The Everett City Council’s EMS levy lid lift — which voters approved sending to the August 4 ballot in April — also appears on this ballot as a proposition, separate from the candidate races. That’s covered in its own article; this one focuses on who filed to run for office.

    How the Primary Works

    Washington uses a top-two primary. All candidates for a given race appear on a single ballot regardless of party. The top two vote-getters — even if both are from the same party — advance to the November 3 general election.

    If only one or two candidates filed for a position, they automatically advance to the general election and won’t appear on the August primary ballot.

    Snohomish County will mail ballots July 15. The last day to register to vote or update voter registration is July 27. Completed ballots must be returned by 8 PM on August 4.

    Congressional Races

    Congressional District 2 covers a large portion of Snohomish County including Everett. Incumbent Rick Larsen (D), who has represented the district since 2001, faces four challengers: Edwin H. Feller (R), Devin Hermanson (D), Raymond Pelletti (R), and Tomas Scheel (D). With two Democratic challengers plus two Republican candidates in a district Larsen has held for over two decades, this is the county’s most competitive congressional primary.

    Congressional District 1 — covering parts of the county’s southern and eastern edges — sees incumbent Suzan DelBene (D) facing five challengers: James Etzkorn (I), Hunter Gordon (D), Catherine Hildebrand (D), Benjamin Kincaid (D), Bryce Nickel (D), and Mary Silva (R).

    Congressional District 8, which includes parts of Snohomish County’s eastern edge, has incumbent Kim Schrier (D) facing Keith Arnold (D), Trinh Ha (R), Bob Hagglund (R), Spencer Meline (R), and Andres Valleza (R).

    State Legislative Races: The Districts That Cover Everett

    District 38 covers Everett and surrounding communities. State Sen. June Robinson (D) faces challenger Brad Bender (R). In the House, Rep. Julio Cortes (D) faces Annie Fitzgerald (D) and Thomas (Jeff) Kelly (Cascade) in Position 1. Rep. Mary Fosse (D) filed alone for Position 2 and advances automatically to the general.

    District 44 covers Mill Creek and adjacent areas of Snohomish County. State Sen. John Lovick (D) faces Sherri Larkin (R). In the House, Rep. Brandy Donaghy (D) faces Chris Elder (R) in Position 1, and Rep. April Berg (D) faces Tonya Stadlman (R) in Position 2.

    District 21 covers Edmonds, Mountlake Terrace, and Mukilteo — communities south of Everett in Snohomish County. State Sen. Marko Liias (D) faces Riaz Khan (R). Rep. Strom Peterson (D) is the sole Position 1 filer and advances automatically. Rep. Lillian Ortiz-Self (D) faces Bruce Guthrie (Libertarian) in Position 2.

    District 32 covers northwest Snohomish County. The senate seat held by Jesse Salomon (D) features a three-way race: Salomon (D), Cindy Ryu (D), and Ira McBee (R). Position 1 is particularly crowded with six candidates: Chris Bloomquist (D), Will Chen (D), Jenna Nand (D), Danica Noble (D), Lisa Rezac (R), and Keith Scully (D). Rep. Lauren Davis (D) faces Imraan Siddiqi (D) in Position 2.

    Snohomish County Offices

    PUD Commissioner District 1: Three candidates filed — Bruce King, Janet St. Clair, and incumbent Sid Logan. The Snohomish County PUD sets electricity rates and runs the utility infrastructure for most of the county outside Everett’s city utility service area. Three candidates means this race goes to the primary ballot.

    Snohomish County Prosecuting Attorney: Incumbent Jason Cummings (D) filed unopposed and advances directly to the general election.

    Courts

    Most district court judicial positions in Snohomish County appear to have single filers, meaning judges automatically advance to the general election without a primary race. This includes both Everett District Court positions: Judge Anthony E. Howard (Position 1) and Judge Jennifer Millett (Position 2).

    Court of Appeals, Division 1, District 2 incumbent Linda Coburn also filed.

    What’s Not on This Ballot

    Everett City Council seats are not up in 2026. Seats 6 and 7 are next on the 2027 cycle.

    The Everett Charter Review Committee and the Snohomish County Charter Review Commission are both targeting November 2026 for their ballot measures — those are still being developed and are separate from the primary.

    What To Do Next

    Check your registration now: Visit vote.wa.gov to confirm your registration is current and your address is correct. You have until July 27 to update.

    Find your district: The Snohomish County Elections website at snohomishcountywa.gov/224 has an interactive map. Enter your address to find which congressional, legislative, and judicial races appear on your ballot.

    See the full candidate list: The Washington Secretary of State’s candidate portal at voter.votewa.gov lists all candidates statewide with party and filing status.

    Mark your calendar: Ballots arrive July 15. Don’t wait until August 4 to return yours by mail — give it a few days of transit time, or use a drop box.

    Track the EMS levy separately: The Everett EMS levy lid lift is also on the August 4 ballot as a standalone proposition. It’s separate from candidate races.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    When do I get my ballot?

    Snohomish County mails ballots July 15. If you haven’t received yours by July 22, contact the Snohomish County Elections Office at 425-388-3444 or visit snohomishcountywa.gov/224.

    What if I moved since the last election?

    Update your registration at vote.wa.gov before July 27. You must register to your current address to receive the correct ballot.

    Do I have to vote on every race?

    No. You can leave individual races blank without affecting the rest of your ballot.

    How does the top-two primary work?

    All candidates for a race appear on a single primary ballot. You pick one. The top two advance to the November 3 general — regardless of party. This means two candidates from the same party can face each other in November.

    Are Everett City Council seats on this ballot?

    No. Everett City Council Seats 6 and 7 are next on the 2027 election cycle, not 2026.

    Where can I find drop boxes?

    Drop box locations across Snohomish County are listed at snohomishcountywa.gov/224 in the weeks before the August 4 deadline.

    🗳️ Exploring Everett — Expanded Coverage

  • Everett City Council Unanimously Adopts NR-MHC Zone: Seven Manufactured Home Parks Now Permanently Protected

    Everett City Council Unanimously Adopts NR-MHC Zone: Seven Manufactured Home Parks Now Permanently Protected

    Q: What did the Everett City Council just vote on?
    A: On May 7, 2026, the council unanimously adopted an ordinance creating the NR-MHC (Neighborhood Residential – Manufactured Housing Community) zone, permanently protecting seven named manufactured home parks from redevelopment for other uses.

    Seven manufactured home parks in Everett can’t be redeveloped for other uses under a new zoning ordinance the City Council unanimously adopted on May 7, 2026.

    The ordinance establishes a new land use zone called Neighborhood Residential – Manufactured Housing Community (NR-MHC) and immediately rezones seven named parks to that classification. It also repeals Title 17 of the Everett Municipal Code, a section of zoning law the city described as defunct and no longer administered.

    Mayor Cassie Franklin issued a statement following the vote: “Thank you to the Council for approving this important action to preserve an affordable housing option in Everett. Manufactured home parks provide one of the most affordable home ownership options. Potential redevelopment of these properties and rising rents are threats to the homeowners’ tenure. Residents don’t own the land under their homes and pay rent. It may not be possible to find a new site for their home if their current location is no longer an option due to redevelopment. This new ordinance offers new protections for the homeowners, preserving this housing option into the future.”

    The Seven Parks Now Under NR-MHC Protection

    The ordinance rezones these communities to NR-MHC effective upon adoption:

    1. Creekside Mobile Home Park — 5810 Fleming St.
    2. Fairway Estates Mobile Home Park — 1427 100th St.
    3. Lago De Plata Villa — 620 112th St.
    4. Loganberry Mobile Home Park — 9931 18th Ave. W
    5. Mobile Country Club — 1415 84th St.
    6. Silver Shores Senior Mobile Home Park — 11622 Silver Lake Road
    7. Westridge Mobile Home Park — 7701 Hardeson Rd.

    What the New Zone Actually Allows — and Doesn’t

    The NR-MHC zone limits land use to the continuation of a manufactured housing community. That means each property must keep operating as a manufactured home park under normal circumstances.

    The single exception: if circumstances beyond the control of the property owner change in a way that results in no reasonable economic use of the property, the owner could seek a different use. That’s a high bar — it’s not a backdoor to redevelopment based on rising land values or more profitable zoning alternatives.

    Permitted uses within NR-MHC include replacement or modification of manufactured homes or tiny homes, and accessory structures including community rooms and laundry facilities. The zone does not allow conversion to apartments, retail, commercial development, or other uses typical in residential or mixed-use zoning.

    Why This Matters for Manufactured Home Residents

    People who own a manufactured home typically own the home itself but not the land it sits on. They rent a pad — the lot — from the park owner. If a park is sold for redevelopment, residents often can’t simply move their homes. Relocation is typically cost-prohibitive, and many older manufactured homes can’t survive a move at all.

    That dynamic has displaced manufactured home communities in high-growth cities throughout the Puget Sound region over the past decade. The NR-MHC zone is Everett’s mechanism for preventing that outcome in the seven parks it covers.

    The ordinance implements two goals from Everett’s Comprehensive Plan: HO-10, which directs the city to protect existing affordable housing stock, and HO-19, which specifically addresses manufactured housing community preservation.

    What the Title 17 Repeal Means

    The ordinance also repeals Title 17 of the Everett Municipal Code. City staff described Title 17 as a section of zoning law that has not been actively used or administered in recent years and is considered defunct. The repeal is housekeeping — removing dormant code language — rather than a substantive change in how anything currently works.

    Context: Where This Fits in Everett’s Housing Picture

    Everett’s planning commission and city council worked on the NR-MHC ordinance as part of the city’s broader housing affordability effort. A public hearing was held May 6 at 6:30 PM in City Council Chambers at 3002 Wetmore Ave. The council voted unanimously to adopt the ordinance the following day, May 7.

    The vote comes as the city navigates a projected $14 million general fund deficit heading into the 2027 budget cycle and considers several revenue-side options including the utility tax increase currently working through council readings. The NR-MHC ordinance doesn’t cost the city anything to implement — the protection comes through the zoning map, not city expenditure.

    Snohomish County approved $23 million in housing funding across six projects on April 24, including three in Everett — a signal that housing preservation and production is a coordinated regional priority.

    What To Do Next

    If you live in one of the seven parks: The ordinance is now in effect. Your park cannot be rezoned for other uses without extraordinary circumstances that must be demonstrated to the city. If you receive any notice from your park owner about redevelopment or sale, contact the City of Everett Planning Division at 425-257-8731 or visit everettwa.gov.

    To review the ordinance: The ordinance and associated documents, including the rezoning map (Exhibit A) and staff memo, are available through the City of Everett Agenda Center at everettwa.gov/agendacenter under the May 7, 2026 City Council meeting materials.

    To stay current with Everett zoning changes: Sign up for news flash notifications at everettwa.gov to receive city announcements directly.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Does this ordinance cap my rent?

    No. The NR-MHC zone controls what the land can be used for, not what a park owner can charge for pad rental. Rent is governed by lease terms and Washington landlord-tenant law — not this ordinance.

    Can the park owner sell the property?

    Yes. The NR-MHC zone follows the property, not the owner. If a park is sold, the new owner takes ownership of a parcel zoned NR-MHC and cannot redevelop it for other uses except under the narrow economic-use exception.

    What was Title 17 EMC?

    Title 17 was an older section of Everett’s zoning code that had not been actively used for some time. Its repeal is cleanup — removing defunct language — not a change to any active regulations.

    Are there other manufactured home parks in Everett not covered by this ordinance?

    The ordinance covers the seven parks identified in Exhibit A of the staff memo. The city did not publicly identify additional parks as being under active redevelopment threat. Parks not on the list are governed by their existing zoning designation.

    Where can I read the full ordinance?

    Visit everettwa.gov/agendacenter and search the May 7, 2026 City Council meeting materials. All ordinance exhibits are available as public documents.

  • Everett Gospel Mission: The Nonprofit Feeding, Sheltering, and Rebuilding Lives Across Snohomish County — And About to Nearly Double Its Capacity

    Q: What does Everett Gospel Mission do and where is it?
    A: Everett Gospel Mission provides emergency shelter, meals, and recovery services for men, women, and families experiencing homelessness in Snohomish County. Their main location is at 3711 Smith Ave in Everett. The organization is currently planning a $30 million expansion that will nearly double its shelter capacity to 172 beds, with construction set to begin in fall 2026.

    Most people in Everett have driven past the Everett Gospel Mission without really knowing what happens inside. That’s starting to change — partly because of a major expansion announcement that has drawn coverage from KING 5 and the Everett Herald, and partly because the need it addresses is increasingly visible in our community.

    Here’s the full picture of what EGM does, who it serves, and what’s coming next for one of Snohomish County’s most essential nonprofits.

    What Is Everett Gospel Mission?

    Everett Gospel Mission is a Christ-centered nonprofit based in Everett that alleviates homelessness, hunger, addiction, and poverty in Snohomish County. Founded on a mission of community care rooted in faith, EGM operates as a practical, daily resource — not just a last resort. Men and women who are unhoused, hungry, or struggling with addiction can walk through EGM’s doors and find shelter, a meal, and support connecting to longer-term recovery resources.

    EGM’s main facility is located at 3711 Smith Ave, Everett — a cluster of buildings on the city’s south side that houses emergency shelter for men, a women’s shelter, a day center, and staff offices. The organization can be reached at (425) 740-2500, and their full resource guide lives at egmission.org.

    Services: What EGM Provides

    EGM’s programming spans three core areas: shelter, meals, and recovery support.

    Emergency Shelter

    Everett Gospel Mission operates separate emergency shelters for men and women. The men’s shelter holds particular significance in the regional context: it is the only emergency shelter available for men without families in Snohomish County. When a man experiencing homelessness in Snohomish County needs a bed, EGM is the option. That context makes the organization’s upcoming expansion not just a local story but a county-level infrastructure story.

    EGM also operates a family shelter in Everett’s Lowell neighborhood, providing an additional resource for families with children who need emergency housing. The expansion of the main Smith Avenue facility will free up additional space at the Lowell family shelter as well.

    Meals and Day Services

    EGM serves meals to people experiencing homelessness throughout the week. The organization hosts holiday meals — Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, and other special occasions — for men, women, and families in need. These meal services are open to community volunteers and faith groups who want to serve alongside EGM staff.

    The day center on Smith Ave provides a daytime space where guests can access basic needs — a place to be, connections to services, and support from staff working toward longer-term stability solutions.

    Recovery Programs

    Addiction and homelessness are deeply intertwined in Everett, as they are in most of Western Washington. EGM provides recovery-oriented programming as part of its holistic model — the goal isn’t just a bed for the night but a pathway toward sustainable change. Their approach is explicitly faith-based and community-rooted, which distinguishes EGM from county-administered services and makes it a complementary part of the broader Snohomish County social safety net alongside organizations like Housing Hope and Cocoon House.

    The $30 Million Expansion: What’s Coming

    In April 2026, EGM announced a major expansion that will transform the Smith Avenue campus and significantly increase the county’s shelter capacity. The Herald covered the announcement on April 10, 2026; KING 5 followed with a segment focused on the growing need EGM is preparing to meet.

    The Scale

    The expansion will connect two existing warehouses on Smith Avenue with EGM’s current shelter building, creating one contiguous facility approximately three times the size of the current structure. When complete, the expanded shelter will provide 172 beds — nearly double current capacity — with separate spaces for men and women. The facility will also include surge capacity for up to 64 additional beds during severe weather events, giving the county a significant cold-weather emergency resource.

    The Funding

    The $30 million project has assembled funding from multiple sources: the City of Everett, Snohomish County, the Washington State Legislature (through a budget allocation approved earlier this year), and private philanthropic donations. Significant portions of the funding have already arrived, positioning the project for a real construction start rather than a planning-stage announcement.

    The Timeline

    Construction is set to begin in October or November 2026, with the goal of having Phase 1 complete in time for the cold weather season in 2027. For a community where winter shelter access is often a matter of survival, that timeline reflects urgency, not ambition.

    Why This Matters for Everett

    Everett has been grappling with visible homelessness for years — a challenge that intersects with the Casino Road corridor, the downtown core, and the waterfront area. The organizations working on this problem in Everett are all connected: Volunteers of America Western Washington runs food banks and the Casino Road pantry; Housing Hope develops and operates affordable housing throughout the county; Cocoon House focuses on youth experiencing homelessness; and EGM holds the critical position of being the only overnight shelter for adult men without families.

    The expansion doesn’t solve Snohomish County’s homelessness crisis — no single building does. But it closes a real gap in the county’s emergency infrastructure, and it positions EGM to serve a growing population with more dignity and space than the current facility allows.

    The Stations Unidos community development corporation, which works to prevent displacement in the Casino Road corridor, has noted that homelessness prevention and emergency response are two sides of the same challenge. EGM works the emergency response side with consistency and scale that few organizations in the county can match.

    How to Get Involved

    Volunteer

    EGM welcomes volunteers for meal service and a range of other roles. The organization requires a Poverty 101 orientation for most volunteer opportunities beyond hosted meal service — a brief training that helps volunteers understand the context they’re stepping into and show up more effectively. Groups (faith communities, businesses, civic organizations) can sign up to prepare and serve meals on a recurring basis. Visit egmission.org/volunteer to connect.

    Donate

    EGM is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 91-0780146) and accepts donations directly through their website. The expansion has raised a significant portion of its $30 million target, but EGM’s ongoing operating budget — meals, shelter staff, utilities, recovery programming — is funded by the community year-round.

    Access Services

    If you or someone you know needs emergency shelter, meals, or recovery support, EGM’s main location is at 3711 Smith Ave, Everett. Call (425) 740-2500 to connect with staff, or visit egmission.org for current hours and intake information.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Where is Everett Gospel Mission located?

    Everett Gospel Mission’s main facility is at 3711 Smith Ave, Everett, WA. Their family shelter is in the Lowell neighborhood. They can be reached at (425) 740-2500 or at egmission.org.

    What services does Everett Gospel Mission provide?

    EGM provides emergency shelter for men and women, a day center, meals, and recovery-oriented programming for people experiencing homelessness, hunger, or addiction in Snohomish County.

    Is Everett Gospel Mission the only men’s shelter in Snohomish County?

    Yes — Everett Gospel Mission’s shelter on Smith Avenue is the only emergency shelter available for adult men without families in Snohomish County.

    What is the EGM expansion project?

    EGM is planning a $30 million expansion of its Smith Avenue campus that will nearly double shelter capacity to 172 beds, with surge capacity for 64 additional beds in severe weather. Construction is set to begin in fall 2026, with Phase 1 targeting completion before the 2027 cold weather season.

    How can I volunteer at Everett Gospel Mission?

    EGM welcomes volunteers for meal service and other roles. A Poverty 101 orientation is required for most positions. Visit egmission.org/volunteer to sign up or learn more.

    Is Everett Gospel Mission a faith-based organization?

    Yes — EGM is a Christ-centered nonprofit. Their approach to shelter, meals, and recovery is rooted in faith-based community development, though their services are available to anyone in need regardless of religious background.

    🏠 Exploring Everett — Expanded Coverage

  • What Comes Next for Everett Residents After the Stadium Vote: Timeline, Traffic, and the $25 Million Gap

    The April 29 council vote approved $10.6 million for Everett’s downtown stadium. For residents, the immediate question isn’t the vote — it’s what comes next: when does construction start, what does it mean for your neighborhood, and what is the $25 million gap that still has to close?

    What the Stadium Actually Costs You (Right Now)

    The $10.6 million approved April 29 comes from Everett’s general fund balance as an interfund loan — money the city is effectively lending itself. It is not a new tax. It does not require a voter ballot measure to approve. The council voted 6-1 to authorize it, with council member Judy Tuohy casting the lone dissent.

    The long-term cost picture is different. The full stadium costs $120 million. The city has committed approximately $17.7 million to date (the earlier $7.2 million in pre-development plus the new $10.6 million). The remaining $25 million gap — about 21% of the project — still requires a solution. That solution will likely involve a stadium construction bond. If a bond is issued, residents may see the debt service reflected in future city budgets, depending on how it is structured and what revenue sources are pledged to service it.

    The Fiscal Advisory Committee — reconvening in May at Council Vice President Paula Rhyne’s formal request — will be the body that clarifies the bond structure before the council votes on a full funding plan, expected July or August 2026.

    Construction: What Happens Near Your Home

    The stadium site is in the downtown core, adjacent to Angel of the Winds Arena on Colby Avenue. The surrounding blocks include surface lots, commercial properties, and several parcels still being acquired. City staff report that 14 property offers have been made, with some purchase agreements complete and others in negotiation.

    Construction is targeted to start in September 2026 and complete in late 2027. For residents who commute through downtown or use Everett Station — one of the region’s major transit hubs — the construction period will bring lane restrictions and traffic changes on blocks adjacent to the site. The city has not yet published a traffic management plan for the construction phase.

    Residents near the arena should expect: noise during construction hours (typically 7 AM–6 PM weekdays), increased truck traffic on Colby and adjacent streets, and periodic weekend work as the project accelerates toward its 2027 deadline.

    Neighborhood Impact: The Long View

    Downtown Everett’s transformation is already underway on multiple tracks: the Millwright District on the waterfront, Waterfront Place at the Port of Everett, and Sound Transit’s fully-funded Everett Link extension. The stadium is the entertainment anchor that connects these investments.

    For residents in neighborhoods close to downtown — Bayside, Port Gardner, Broadway District, and the blocks north of Everett Station — a functioning multi-sport venue that hosts AquaSox baseball and United Soccer League matches adds evening and weekend foot traffic. That foot traffic typically accelerates adjacent restaurant and retail openings, which is exactly the economic sequence the city needs.

    The downside scenario: if the $25 million funding gap cannot be closed — whether because private partners withdraw, the bond structure proves unworkable, or the Fiscal Advisory Committee raises red flags — the April 29 vote’s $4.8 million in unrecoverable spending becomes the cost of a project that did not reach groundbreaking. The council accepted that risk. Residents watching the next three months should track the funding plan vote, not the groundbreaking announcement.

    The Three Dates Every Everett Resident Should Track

    May 2026: Fiscal Advisory Committee reconvenes. This is the first test of whether the financing is structurally sound.

    July–August 2026: Funding plan vote. The council approves (or rejects) the full financial architecture including the construction bond, private partner contributions, and debt service plan. This is the highest-stakes decision remaining in the process.

    September 2026: Target groundbreaking — if the prior two steps succeed.

    Frequently Asked Questions: Everett Stadium and Residents

    Related Exploring Everett coverage: Everett’s $10.6M Stadium Vote — Complete Guide | Port of Everett Waterfront Place Guide | Eclipse Mill Park Complete Guide