Snohomish County
District 3 Newsletter
Snohomish County Council
3000 Rockefeller Ave., M/S 609
Everett, Washington 98201
8th floor, Robert J. Drewel Building
Phone: 425-388-3494
Email: Strom Peterson
JoshuaThompson, Legislative Aide
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Justice Fund and Transportation Benefit District Ordinances
On August 12, 2026, the Snohomish County Council held a public hearing to consider several ordinances, two of which are designed to raise revenue for the county. I believe that public safety is the core mission of county government, and by voting to help fund safe roads as well as critical investments in our justice system, I am committed to that mission. I am proud to stand with our county staff, Sheriff Johnson, County Prosecutor Cummings, Executive Somers, and our courts to deliver on the services Snohomish County residents deserve.
Amended Ordinance 26-030, which adds a new section to Snohomish County Code under Title 4 implementing a 1/10th of one percent sales and use tax, also referred to as the Justice Fund, passed by a 3-2 bipartisan vote. This funding is about more than hiring new sheriff’s deputies and corrections officers, though that is critical. It is also about supporting domestic violence programs for vulnerable families, victims’ services, public defense, ensuring everyone's constitutional rights are protected, and court systems, such as our innovative and very effective drug diversion courts, saving taxpayer dollars and helping people get back on their feet
The council also took action on Ordinance 26-009, which amends Snohomish County Code Section 2.85, relating to the Snohomish County Transportation Benefit District, passing by another bipartisan 3-2 vote. While I do not take raising taxes lightly due to their effect on families throughout Snohomish County, safe roads and bridges are fundamental to our economy, our communities, and the safety of everyone in Snohomish County.
To learn more, please visit the Snohomish County’s Transportation Benefit District webpage.
The public hearing lasted just under 2.5 hours where Council heard from elected officials and county residents. For video and minutes from this hearing.
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