Dear North County Neighbors,
It’s been a busy and productive month here in Snohomish County, with new efforts to increase transparency, engage students, and invest in community projects. Below are a few highlights, upcoming events, and opportunities to stay engaged with what’s happening across our county. You can read the full newsletter below this summary:
🧾 Tax Transparency Approved – New policy ensures better public notice and outreach for proposed tax increases
🎓 Civic Education Day – 150 local students visited to learn about county government and careers
🔧 RAP Showcase (Apr 30) – Students will present projects and program updates—community invited
🚴 Arlington Pump Track – New all-skill-level bike track coming this summer to Jensen Park
🐣 Community Event Fun – Local Easter Egg Hunt brought families together in Arlington
🌲 Forest Stewardship Course – Starts Apr 28 for landowners interested in forest management
🧠 Civic Assembly – Residents invited to help shape how the county uses AI in government
Tax Transparency Proposal
Last month, the Snohomish County Council unanimously approved my proposal to increase transparency when considering ordinances that would raise taxes. The new policy requires staff to formally notify local media, post clear notices on the Council’s website, and share updates across social media whenever a tax-related ordinance is scheduled for consideration.
This added outreach aims to give residents more timely and accessible information, ensuring they are aware of proposals that could impact their finances and have opportunities to follow discussions and provide input. Previously, while ordinances were publicly posted, there was no requirement for targeted communication around tax increases. This proposal requires more direct outreach so that residents are informed when we are taking votes that will impact their pocketbooks. You can read more about the proposal in this Lynnwood Times article.
Civic Education Day
On March 22, we held our fourth annual Civic Education Day at the Snohomish County Campus. Nearly 150 students from across the county joined us in Everett to hear from elected officials and department staff about local government and career opportunities in county government.
This year, we hosted students from Jackson High School, Cascade High School, Everett High School, Legacy High School, Grace Academy, and Innovation Lab High School. Students heard from the County Council, Sheriff’s Office, Snohomish County Elections, Public Works, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the Prosecutor’s Office, and the Office of Public Defense. This is one of the best traditions each year and it was enjoyed by students and county staff alike.
The Everett Herald wrote about the event in this article.
 |
|
