Councilmember Nehring's April Newsletter

Snohomish County, Washington sent this bulletin at 04/01/2025 06:00 AM PDT

Dear North County Neighbors,

As we move into spring, there is lots happening across Snohomish County. This month, I’ll share updates on exciting developments at Paine Field, highlight the achievements of our Regional Apprenticeship Pathways (RAP) students, and provide details on local events and meetings.

Childcare Facilities Ordinance

On March 19th, the Snohomish County Council unanimously approved Ordinance 25-015, a proposal designed to expand childcare availability by reducing regulatory barriers for providers. I co-sponsored this ordinance along with Councilmember Mead. The new code simplifies zoning and permitting processes, making it easier for new childcare facilities to open across the county. You can read more about the ordinance at this link.

The ordinance was the result of outreach we have done to find solutions to the childcare crisis we have in Snohomish County. Childcare providers are facing barriers to opening new facilities, challenges recruiting and retaining qualified staff, and issues with regulations around childcare facilities. During a panel discussion held at the County Council on March 18th, we heard from local childcare providers and advocates about these challenges. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the County Council to identify further solutions to this critical issue. Councilmember Mead and I penned an op-ed for MyNorthwest that you can read here.

Snohomish County Update Presentations

Last month, I had the opportunity to connect with several community groups to share updates on the work of the Snohomish County Council. On March 11th, I presented to the Stilly Valley Chamber of Commerce and on March 28th, I presented to the Marysville-Tulalip Chamber of Commerce. I provided an overview of key issues, including the county budget, public safety initiatives, economic development efforts, and local project investments. Thank you to both Chambers for the invitation and the opportunity to speak to your members.

If you have a group that would like to receive a Snohomish County Update, please reach out to me at nate.nehring@snoco.org.

SCSO Ride-Along

As a councilmember, I believe it’s important to understand the work of those who keep our communities safe to help influence public policy. Recently, I had the opportunity to ride along with the Snohomish County Sheriff's Office Violent Offender Task Force, a specialized unit focused on apprehending the county’s most dangerous fugitives. Seeing their work firsthand eye-opening. The coordination required between the Task Force and other local law enforcement agencies is critical to their success. The Task Force members carry out this duty with professionalism and dedication. Their efforts track down and bring to justice some of the highest priority offenders in our county.

In The News

Stanwood receives grant for Heritage Park dugout enclosure project | Stanwood Camano News, Feb. 28

Regional Apprenticeship Pathways Program Provides an Alternative to College | MyEverett News, Feb. 28

Commentary: Career Pathways can be expanded through high school trades education | Stanwood Camano News, Mar. 1

Snohomish council members push to improve child care access | Everett Herald, Mar. 4

Snohomish County welcomes Frontier Airlines to Paine Field Airport | My Edmonds News, Mar. 4

Snohomish County donates surplus vehicles to local nonprofits | Lynnwood Times, Mar. 11

Snohomish County considers zoning changes to address day care shortage | The Business Journal, Mar. 12

Snohomish County passes new ordinance to help meet childcare demand | King 5, Mar. 19

Snohomish County ordinance aims to expand childcare availability | Kiro 7, Mar. 19

County unanimously passes ordinance to improve childcare access | Lynnwood Times, Mar. 19

Snohomish County Council approves child care ordinance | Everett Herald, Mar. 19

Community Events

April 5 – Arlington Easter Egg Hunt

April 12 – Marysville Happy Parks

April 19 – Marysville EGGstravaganza Egg Hunt

April 27 – Stanwood McClinchy Camano Classic Century

I am grateful for their service and look forward to exploring how we, as policymakers, can continue to support their mission.

Oso Slide Memorial

11 years ago, the most deadly landslide in U.S. history rocked our entire community. The SR 530 Slide took the lives of 43 of our friends and neighbors and destroyed an entire neighborhood. Each year, on the anniversary of the tragedy, the community gathers to remember the lives of those lost and to honor the first responders who worked tirelessly to rescue and recover victims.

CJTA Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

On Thursday, March 20th, I joined law enforcement leaders, local and state elected officials, and community members to celebrate the grand opening of the Criminal Justice Training Academy in Arlington. This new facility increases the state’s capacity to train law enforcement officers, helping them get into the field more quickly. Previously, prospective officers and their agencies faced long wait times for openings at the Burien training facility. With this expansion, those delays are reduced, allowing new officers to begin serving our communities sooner.

SnoPUD Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

On Saturday, March 22nd, I attended the grand opening of the North County Community Office in Arlington. This new facility enhances service for PUD customers in north Marysville, Arlington, Darrington, Stanwood, and Camano Island, replacing the outdated Arlington and Stanwood offices.

The event featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, tours of the new office and warehouse, demonstrations by PUD linemen, and a look at the Clean Energy Center and line training yard. With expanded space and resources, this facility will help the PUD better serve our growing communities and provide critical support during major storms or grid disruptions.

Weston High School Visit

Last month, I had the privilege of visiting Weston High School in Arlington along with Superintendent Dr. Chrys Sweeting and School Board Director Erica Knapp. During the visit, I met with students, teachers, and staff. Weston is an alternative high school that provides a unique, personalized education experience that helps students thrive, offering flexible pathways to graduation and career readiness. I enjoyed the opportunity to learn more about the innovative options provided to Arlington students at Weston High School and appreciate the invitation to tour the school.

RAP Program Updates

We have some exciting updates from the Regional Apprenticeship Pathways (RAP) Program. Next month, 14 RAP students will compete in the Skills USA State Competition. This competition includes multiple categories, including Chapter Display, Electrical Construction Wiring, Extemporaneous Speaking, Job Skill, Job Interview, Prepared Speech, and Welding. These students will showcase their skills and competencies learned in the RAP Program.

The Sixth Annual Girls Build event will be held on May 7th at the RAP Center in Marysville. This year, the focus is shifting to freshmen and sophomores to build awareness and create a pathway into the RAP Program. Participants will engage in five hands-on stations led by local tradeswomen and hear from an inspiring speaker panel. By providing this early exposure, we are helping develop the next generation of skilled trades professionals.

Save the date! On Tuesday, April 29th, the RAP Program will be hosting its annual Spring Showcase. From 11:30 AM-1:00 PM, students will give tours, present on their projects, and RAP staff will give updates on the program. This annual event is a great way for community members, RAP stakeholders, and local leaders to learn about the program and support the students who will be our future workforce. Below, find the flyer for the event with more details.

Frontier Airlines Announces Paine Field Flights

Last month, Frontier Airlines announced that it would begin commercial air service at Paine Field Airport in Everett. They are beginning direct flights to Denver, Las Vegas, and Phoenix starting June 2nd. This expansion increases Paine Field’s direct destinations to 10 cities, offering more convenience for local travelers while reducing congestion on regional roadways.

We are excited to have Frontier join Alaska Airlines at Paine Field as we expand the role of Paine Field in our local economy. You can read more about the announcement here.

Wellness and Family Friendly Initiatives

Our County Council leadership team (Vice Chair Dunn and I) have been working on a series of family-friendly and community wellness initiatives in Snohomish County. Last year, we hosted a roundtable discussion with County employees and community members. The roundtable identified key priorities to enhance community safety, improve workforce, and promote health & wellness. These initiatives are focused on how Snohomish County can be a family-friendly employer as well as how we can foster a family-friendly environment throughout our communities. You can read more about this initiative in a joint op-ed linked here.

Passing of former Secretary of State Ralph Munro

Last month, Ralph Munro, Washington state's longest-serving Secretary of State, passed away at the age of 81. Ralph served five terms as secretary of state and was known for his bipartisan approach to public service. Beyond his official duties, he was a passionate advocate for environmental conservation and disability rights. I had the privilege of knowing Ralph Munro and believe we can all learn from his leadership style and unwavering commitment to the people of Washington State.

I send out monthly newsletters to keep you informed about what I am working on and how I am representing the residents of North Snohomish County on the County Council. Please feel free to reach out to me at 425-512-4810 or Nate.Nehring@snoco.org.

Sincerely,

Nate Nehring
Councilman, District 1

Snohomish County Council

3000 Rockefeller Ave., M/S 609
Everett, Washington 98201

8th floor, Robert J. Drewel Building
Phone: 425-388-3494
E-Mail: Nate.Nehring@snoco.org

Russell Wiita, Legislative Aide