Tygart Media

Tag: Everett Government

  • Everett’s Proposed Utility Tax Hike Could Add $10.74 a Month to Water Bills — What Residents Need to Know

    Everett is considering nearly doubling its utility tax on water service — from 6% to 12% — which would add roughly $10.74 per month to the average household water bill for about 670,000 Snohomish County water customers.

    A utility tax is levied on utility services as a general revenue source for the city budget. Doubling it from 6% to 12% effectively doubles the tax component of every water bill. At roughly $128 per year per average household, it’s not trivial — and it would affect a wide geographic area across Snohomish County given the scale of the water district service area.

    Where It Stands

    As of publication, this is a proposal under deliberation — not an adopted change. The council has not taken a final vote. Monitor council agendas at everettwa.gov for the vote schedule and public comment windows.

    How to Comment

    Everett City Council meets at City Hall, 2930 Wetmore Ave. Public comment can be submitted in person at council meetings, in writing through the city clerk, or through the online portal at everettwa.gov. Comment periods are held before votes — that’s the window to be heard.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Has Everett approved the utility tax increase?

    No — it is a proposal under deliberation. Check everettwa.gov for current agenda status.

    How much would this add to my water bill?

    Approximately $10.74/month for an average household — about $128/year. Individual impact varies by usage and service district.

    How do I comment on the proposal?

    Attend a council meeting at 2930 Wetmore Ave, submit written comment to the city clerk, or use the online portal at everettwa.gov.

  • Everett City Council Passes Fair Labor Ordinance 9-1: What City Contractors Need to Know

    Everett City Council passed a fair labor ordinance on March 25, 2026 in a 9-1 vote — and if your business contracts with the city, you need to know what it requires.

    The ordinance establishes new labor standards for companies holding city contracts above a defined threshold. Businesses that receive city contracts must meet baseline labor conditions — typically wage floors above state minimum, paid leave provisions, and worker notification rights — as a condition of that contract. The intent: ensure city spending flows to employers meeting defined standards.

    The Vote

    9-1, March 25, 2026. Strong council consensus. Fair labor ordinances have been adopted by cities across Washington in recent years. Everett’s is consistent with that regional trend.

    Who It Affects

    Businesses holding or bidding on city contracts above the ordinance threshold. If your company does business with the City of Everett, review the ordinance text at everettwa.gov or contact the city’s purchasing department for compliance guidance. This article is context, not legal advice.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What did Everett Council vote on March 25?

    A fair labor ordinance requiring labor standards compliance for city contractors, passed 9-1.

    Does this affect all Everett businesses?

    No — only businesses with city contracts above the specified threshold. Private employers without city contracts are not directly affected.

    Where is the full ordinance?

    At everettwa.gov. Contact the city’s purchasing or legal department for contract-specific compliance guidance.