2007 Snohomish County News
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December 31, 2007
Swearing-in Ceremony 9 am Wednesday
December 31, 2007
In five or six weeks the Snohomish County Council will be streaming across the Internet, bringing its meetings live to the curious and concerned from Darrington to Woodway. The target rollout for webcasting the council is Feb. 1.
December 24, 2007
Nine Snohomish County nonprofits serving the homeless will celebrate the holidays by sharing more than $4 million in federal funding.
December 21, 2007
The Federal Emergency Management Agency has added Snohomish County to its recent Individual Assistance disaster declaration for the December 2007 storm and floods, providing funding and support for residents suffering personal property damages.
December 20, 2007
Snohomish County will combine $1 million in state salmon-recovery funds with $235,000 in funding, labor and materials to improve fish habitat and aquatic resources found throughout the Snohomish and Stillaguamish River systems.
December 20, 2007
Snohomish County is partnering with local and national organizations to help local business address the challenges of workforce housing in the county. The Snohomish County Workforce Housing Summit will be held Tues., Jan. 15, 2008 at the Lynnwood Convention Center in Lynnwood, Washington.
December 20, 2007
More than $2 million in critical federal funding for transportation improvements and a biodiesel initiative has been secured by Snohomish County, in large part from the support of Sens. Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell, as well as Reps. Rick Larsen and Jay Inslee.
December 19, 2007
Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon signed a three-year contract today with the Snohomish County Deputy Sheriff’s Association, finalizing a collective-bargaining agreement, which covers deputies and sergeants through March 31, 2010.
December 19, 2007
Cindy Hart, Snohomish County’s deputy director of facilities management, will temporarily lead the county’s Human Services Department while a nationwide search is conducted to permanently fill the position.
December 18, 2007
Snohomish County will receive an $85,000 grant from the Washington State Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development (CTED) for the launch of a financial-asset-building project.
December 13, 2007
Snohomish County celebrated Friday with eight Housing Hope families entering new homes for the first time. Since Housing Hope’s start 20 years ago, Snohomish County has come alongside the nonprofit -- which provides housing for low-income families -- ensuring that the mission of providing affordable housing continues.
December 13, 2007
The Snohomish County Airport, also known as Paine Field, has received the Washington Pilots Association’s inaugural President’s Award. The association honored the airport’s director, Dave Waggoner, and his staff for their continuous support of and partnership with the organization.
December 12, 2007
Citing the public’s overwhelming demand for traffic congestion relief, the Snohomish County Council today unanimously rejected County Executive Aaron Reardon’s vetoes of a one percent increase in the county property tax for roads for 2008. Only property owners in the unincorporated county pay the road tax.
December 11, 2007
Snohomish County’s Craig Ladiser has been named “Public Employee of the Year” by the Puget Sound Chapter of the American Planning Association (APA) and the Master Builders Association of King and Snohomish Counties (MBA).
December 10, 2007
An agreement between Snohomish County, the YWCA of Seattle-King County-Snohomish County and the Everett Housing Authority to preserve over 200 affordable housing units in Snohomish County has won a regional “Deal of the Year” award and been nominated for national recognition.
December 7, 2007
Reardon signed into law the 1% cut to general property taxes he proposed in September. "We have demonstrated that we can provide quality services to the citizens of Snohomish County while reducing their tax burden," said Reardon. "We are investing in a better and more prosperous future for Snohomish County."
December 7, 2007
Snohomish County Councilman Dave Somers (Monroe) joined local government leaders from across the nation Dec. 3-4, 2007 in Washington, D.C. to help chart the course of Climate Communities, a new national advocacy coalition composed of cities and counties seeking new federal policies and resources to support community action on climate change.
December 5, 2007
Snohomish County is offering aid to individuals faced with the aftermath of flood clean-up in the form of free waste disposal of water-damaged household goods at County solid waste facilities.
December 4, 2007
As flood waters recede and citizens return to their homes, the Snohomish County Department of Emergency Management (DEM) is asking residents and businesses to document and submit their estimated flood-damage assessments to the Snohomish County Department of Emergency Management (DEM).
December 4, 2007
River levels continued to rise in the major river systems in Snohomish County overnight under the watchful eye of Snohomish County Emergency Management. The Snohomish River system prediction has been downgraded by the National Weather Service from "major" flooding to "moderate."
December 3, 2007
Snohomish County residents are strongly encouraged to heed local weather service warnings regarding flooding on most Snohomish County rivers. Citizens in low-lying areas should be prepared to take the proper steps to ensure their personal safety in the event of flooding overnight.
December 3, 2007
Snohomish County joined the State of Washington and several other local jurisdictions in declaring a state of emergency in response to extremely heavy rainfall and local flooding.
December 3, 2007
Snohomish County responded to heavy rainfall and potential urban flooding by opening its Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at Paine Field early Monday morning.
November 29, 2007
Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon announced today he is appointing Larry Calter as the new Director of the Department of Information Services.
November 29, 2007
'From Soils to Sales,' the fourth annual Snohomish County Focus on Farming conference, got underway at 8 a.m. today at the Lynnwood Convention Center. The conference, which drew 600 participants, featured nationally recognized agricultural leaders and a broad range of subject-specific breakout sessions, a 35-exhibitor trade show, a plated lunch and a wine and cheese tasting featuring locally grown products.
November 28, 2007
Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon announced several top advisors will remain in key positions in his administration as he prepares to begin his second term.
November 28, 2007
The Snohomish County Blue Ribbon Commission on Criminal Justice is looking for public recommendations and to gather public opinion on a number of key proposals to address criminal justice issues throughout the county.
November 21, 2007
Snohomish County will begin making much-needed improvements to 20th Street SE in the Lake Stevens area in 2008, thanks in part to a recent $1.5 million grant awarded by the Washington State Transportation Improvement Board (TIB).
November 20, 2007
The Snohomish County Council unanimously approved a $672.9 million budget for 2008 that fully funds county programs and obligations without borrowing money to balance the budget. Next year’s budget also includes a one percent reduction to the general fund property tax levy recommended by County Executive Aaron Reardon. The cut is estimated to save owners of a $300,000 house or condo approximately $2.04 next year.
November 19, 2007
The Snohomish County Council today unanimously approved County
Councilmember Dave Somers’ motion reaffirming that the county will continue to abide by the limits set forth in the Initiative 747 – limiting property tax increases to one percent. Somers introduced the motion following the state Supreme Court’s recent ruling nullifying Initiative 747, the property-tax-limiting measure approved by voters in 2001.
November 16, 2007
On Monday, the County Council will consider three proposals sponsored by Council Chair Gossett to raise taxes by nearly $1.2 million over what was proposed in the 2008 Executive Recommended Budget. In a letter sent to Council on Friday, Executive Reardon strongly encouraged Council to reject the tax increases (Ordinances 07-130, 07-131 and 07-133).
November 14, 2007
The Snohomish County Council will hold its final public hearing on the executive’s proposed 2008 county budget on Monday, Nov. 19, 2007, beginning at 1:00 PM.
November 9, 2007
County Executive Aaron Reardon has proclaimed, November 11, 2007, “Veterans Appreciation Day” in Snohomish County. In a message to county residents, Executive Reardon encouraged reflection on the
sacrifices of the men and women of the nation’s Armed Forces.
November 9, 2007
With a little more than a week to go until the final budget hearing on Nov. 19, the Snohomish County Council continues its in-depth review and examination of the proposed 2008 spending plan submitted by the County Executive in September.
November 9, 2007
In response to Thursday’s state Supreme Court ruling nullifying Initiative 747, the property tax-limiting measure approved by voters in 2001, County Councilmember Dave Somers introduced a motion today reaffirming that the county will continue to abide by the limits set forth in the initiative.
November 8, 2007
Pending certification of the Nov. 5 election, come January 1 the Snohomish County Council will officially welcome two new members, Mike Cooper of Edmonds and Brian Sullivan of Mukilteo, who will be respectively replacing retiring council members Gary Nelson and Kirke Sievers.
November 6, 2007
Stepping up to the leadership challenge, the county council has introduced a fast-track, $130 million construction program to address critical road and pedestrian safety improvements in Snohomish County’s most congested areas. Under the council’s proposal, the work would be completed without raising taxes.
November 6, 2007
Snohomish County continues to meet the Growth Management Act’s (GMA) goals for accommodating population increases into urban areas, but the impacts of a large population growth in the county’s rural areas remains a serious concern to Councilmember Dave Somers of Monroe.
November 5, 2007
A very surprised Bob Drewel, former Snohomish County Executive, was honored Nov. 5, 2007 with the county’s new administration building being named in his honor.
November 2, 2007
In the latest edition of the county council’s weekly budget commentary, Inside the Budget #3, the focus is the importance of the council’s leadership role in the public participation process offered through its hearings on the county budget, said Fred Bird, the council’s public information officer. The first two hearings on the proposed 2008 budget are set for Monday, Nov. 5th.
November 1, 2007
"From Soils to Sales," the fourth annual Snohomish County Focus on Farming conference, gets underway at 8 a.m. Thursday, November 29, 2007, at the Lynnwood Convention Center. The conference will feature nationally recognized agricultural leaders, a broad range of subject-specific breakout sessions and a trade show exhibition.
October 31, 2007
On Friday, October 26, 2007, County Executive Aaron Reardon submitted a proposal to the Snohomish County Council to provide needed support for a new affordable housing initiative sponsored by Housing Hope, Snohomish County’s largest affordable housing agency. The County Council unanimously approved Executive Reardon’s proposal on Monday, October 29, 2007.
October 30, 2007
To save lives and prevent needless injuries, Snohomish County has joined Energizer® and the International Association of Fire Chiefs for the 20th year of the Change Your Clock Change Your Battery® campaign. The program urges all Americans to adopt a simple, lifesaving habit: changing smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector batteries when changing clocks back to standard time each fall.
October 29, 2007
The county council will hold its first public hearings on the executive’s proposed 2008 county budget on Monday, Nov. 5, 2007. The first session starts at 1:30 PM, and the second session starts at 6:30 PM. Both sessions will be held in the Jackson Board Room on the 8th floor of Admin East building, 3000 Rockefeller Ave., Everett, WA 98201. Please call 425-388-3494 for additional information.
October 26, 2007
On Friday October 26, 2007, County Executive Aaron Reardon submitted a proposal to the Snohomish County Council to provide needed support for a new affordable housing initiative sponsored by Housing Hope, Snohomish County’s largest affordable housing agency.
October 26, 2007
In the latest edition of the county council’s weekly budget commentary, Inside the Budget #2, the focus is the lack of leadership in planning for Snohomish County’s future financial needs, said Fred Bird, the council’s public information officer.
October 26, 2007
Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon will launch the County’s Agricultural Sustainability Project during a news conference at the Farm, a 125-acre working family farm along the Snohomish River.
October 26, 2007
The State Department of Community, Trade & Economic Development (CTED) has awarded Snohomish County $1,184,007 in new funds for a pilot project focused on ending homelessness. Snohomish County was one of nine agencies selected to receive funding out of nineteen submissions.
October 19, 2007
First, the good news: On the surface it appears to be a balanced budget. The bad news, said Fred Bird, County Council spokesman, is that when you look beneath the surface you will quickly discover that the executive plans to borrow money unnecessarily in order to pay the county’s bills. Is this what he means when he repeatedly says the county must "live within its means"?
October 11, 2007
EVERETT – SnoGold 2010, a community-driven initiative led by Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon, will host Get in the Game, a forum to introduce businesses and organizations to 2010 Winter Olympics and Paralympics opportunities on Wednesday, October 17 from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Weyerhaeuser Room at the Everett Station, 3201 Smith Avenue, Everett. The event is free and the public is invited to attend.
October 9, 2007
Snohomish County is tired of being stood up when it comes to people missing their court dates. Officials are doing something about it by sending a message to people with outstanding warrants that if they don’t take care of their warrant, our legal system will.
October 9, 2007
Community Transit (CT) has ordered the area’s first hybrid diesel-electric buses, said County Council Chair Dave Gossett, who serves on CT’s board of directors.
Governor Christine Gregoire came to Snohomish County Monday to announce the designation of Highway 2 as a state “safety corridor,” bringing with her $2.1 million in state and federal traffic safety improvement funds that when combined with $1.5 million provided by the County Council will allow for significant safety enhancements from Monroe to Stevens Pass.
On Sunday, October 7th, Snohomish County truly goes to the dogs (and cats too); particularly for those whose owners would rather not lose them. The first 200 Snohomish County resident dogs and cats brought to the Tulalip Housing Authority at Silver Village, Tulalip, WA starting at 10 a.m. will receive free microchip implants identifying the pet’s owner’s name and contact information, ensuring that a lost animal gets a quick ride home, instead of a trip to the local animal shelter.
October 7-13, 2007 is Fire Prevention Week, and Snohomish County is joining forces with the nonprofit National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to remind local residents to 'Practice Your Escape Plan.
Join a crew of volunteers and experienced staff who
will clean up and paint out graffiti along a heavily vandalized section of the Interurban Trail, before traveling to the paint-out area where the Trail crosses underneath 220th Street SW in Mountlake Terrace and Edmonds (behind Funtasia.)
"Executive Reardon sets priorities for 2008, proposes general property tax cut." County Executive Aaron Reardon delivered his 2008 Budget Address today in which he outlined spending priorities for 2008 and proposed a 1% reduction in general property taxes.
September 27, 2007
County Executive Aaron Reardon today announced two Snohomish County sponsored activities in support of United Way "Days of Caring."
September 27, 2007
The Snohomish County Domestic Violence Coalition and the Snohomish County Domestic Violence Taskforce will sponsor a "Month of Mondays", a series of evening candlelight vigils scheduled at locations throughout the region on each of the five Mondays this October as support of national Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
September 21, 2007
Snohomish County Executive Reardon will present his 2008 Recommended Budget in a 10:00 a.m. speech on Friday, September 28. The public is welcome. Executive Reardon will address highlights and priorities in his budget and present an outlook for 2008.
September 18, 2007
Snohomish County will host its third annual Native American Heritage Celebration, Thursday, September 20, 2007, 11a.m. to 4 p.m., at the County Campus Plaza, 3000 Rockefeller Avenue, in downtown Everett.
September 13, 2007
The County Council has told the County Executive they will not consider lifting recently imposed development restrictions along the 164th Street SE/SW corridor “unless we can simultaneously provide the public with a solid plan for addressing and mitigating the ensuing impacts.”
September 13, 2007
The Snohomish County Diversity Council and Snohomish County Government will conduct the third annual Native American Heritage Celebration, Thursday, September 20, 2007, 11a.m. to 4 p.m., at the County Campus Plaza, 3000 Rockefeller Avenue, in downtown Everett.
September 12, 2007
The Snohomish County Auditor's Office – Licensing Division and Animal Control Services will be closed all day on Wednesday, September 19, 2007 for all staff training. The Election Division and Recording Division will remain open for public service. Marriage licenses will still be available through the Recording Division of the Auditor's Office.
September 9, 2007
County Executive Aaron Reardon will dedicate the newly constructed playground and climbing rock at Lord Hill Regional Park on Wednesday, September 12, 2007, at 3:30 p.m.
August 24, 2007
Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon announced today the appointment of Ryan Hembree as the County's new Agriculture Coordinator during the annual Farmer's Breakfast at the Evergreen State Fair.
August 23, 2007
A biodiesel processor will be a featured part of the Evergreen State Fair this year – and it's not just for viewing. This functional processor will turn used oil from Fair food vendors into fuel.
August 22, 2007
Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon will officially open the 2007 Evergreen State Fair on Thursday, August 23, at 2:00 p.m. Last year, nearly one million fairgoers passed through the Fair gates for 12 days of rodeos, auto races, carnival rides, concerts, lumberjack contests and more.
August 15, 2007
Today, Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon signed new regulations into law that will help protect the County’s environment. The ordinance, which updates the County’s critical areas regulations, was signed into law at a signing ceremony where Executive Reardon was joined by County Councilmen Somers and Sievers, county staff and community stakeholders.
August 15, 2007
Snohomish County Councilmembers expressed reservations about the Executive’s proposal to penalize property owners who are victims of graffiti. At a meeting of the Planning and Community Development Committee on Tuesday, Council was briefed on legislation proposed by the Executive to stiffen the penalties against people who deface public and private property with graffiti and for those who carry implements of graffiti. The ordinance also would place the responsibility for cleaning up the graffiti on the owners of the defaced property.
August 13, 2007
County Executive Aaron Reardon will dedicate the newly constructed playground and picnic shelters at North Creek Park, today, August 13, 2007, at 1:30 p.m.
August 07, 2007
The Snohomish County Council on Monday took action to provide the County Executive with direction regarding how new revenues coming to the county in 2008 should be spent. New money is anticipated from a variety of sources including the State Legislature’s passage earlier this year of SSB5089, the Streamlined Sales & Use Tax Agreement, that will mean an additional $3 million in 2008, and $7 million in 2009 and later years. Other sources of funding will come from the retirement of an existing debt issuance in 2009 that will free up $1.4 million each year, and a redirection of $1.25 million of Real Estate Excise Tax revenues from debt service into capital projects.
August 02, 2007
The Snohomish County Council took an important step Wednesday to provide better protection for our local communities and natural resources through the adoption of revised Critical Areas Regulations. The regulations include significantly stronger protections for our drinking water, local streams, rivers, wetlands and steep slopes.
August 02, 2007
County Executive Aaron Reardon will dedicate the newly constructed playground at Kayak Point Regional Park, August 8, 2007, at 3:00 p.m. Kayak Point Regional Park is a 690–acre property that supports camping and recreational vehicle camping, the Yurt Village, salt-water beach access, a boat launch, picnic shelters, hiking and the 270-acre Kayak Point Golf Course.
July 30, 2007
The Snohomish County Council is seeking individuals interested in serving on the Pro/Con Committees to prepare written arguments in support of and written arguments in opposition to approval of the Roads and Transit proposition on the November 6, 2007 general election ballot.
July 27, 2007
County Executive Aaron Reardon will dedicate a newly constructed playground and a new picnic shelter at the Centennial Trail Machias Trailhead, July 31, 2007, at 3:00 p.m.
July 26, 2007
Today, County Executive Aaron Reardon hosted a summit with leaders from across Snohomish County to begin tackling graffiti in Snohomish County.
July 26, 2007
The Snohomish County Veteran’s Assistance Fund Program in conjunction with the Veteran’s Administration Puget Sound Health Care System (VAPSHCS) will conduct the 2007 CHALENG survey July 30, at 1 p.m., in the Snohomish County Campus Administration East Building, in first floor conference room F-103.
July 24, 2007
County Executive Aaron Reardon will dedicate and officially open Snohomish County’s first off-leash dog park, Tuesday, July 24, 2007, at 5:30 p.m., at Willis Tucker Community Park.
July 20, 2007
Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon today issued an Executive Order to address climate change in a way that aims to reduce the County's carbon footprint and greenhouse gas emissions. “Our initial goal is by the Year 2020 to reduce Snohomish County's greenhouse gas emissions to 20 percent below the Year 2000 levels,” Executive Reardon said.
July 18, 2007
County Executive Aaron Reardon will sign an agreement between the County, the YWCA of Seattle-King County-Snohomish County and the Everett Housing Authority preserving over 200 affordable housing units in Snohomish County.
July 17, 2007
Snohomish County has again been ranked one of the nation's most technologically-advanced, cutting-edge county governments.
July 11, 2007
County Executive Aaron Reardon submitted the contingent loan agreement which had been negotiated by the County and representatives of the YWCA and the Housing Authority for Council approval in June. Today, the County Council approved the proposal and the contract will be forwarded to the Executive for final approval.
July 11, 2007
Today the County Council passed legislation to provide stable living situations for lower wage earners and homeless residents.
July 10, 2007
Tomorrow, County Executive Aaron Reardon will sign the proposed Regional Transportation Investment District’s (RTID) Blueprint for Progress, which recommends improvements for major roads and bridges in the most congested corridors in Snohomish, King and Pierce counties. The Blueprint for Progress will be combined with Sound Transit Phase 2 to create a “Roads & Transit” plan to appear on the November 2007 ballot in each of the three counties.
July 5, 2007
Executive Aaron Reardon today proposed to the County Council an ordinance to give law enforcement and code enforcement officers new tools to combat graffiti.
June 28, 2007
Executive Aaron Reardon today urged citizens to “Celebrate Safely” with the June 28 opening of County retail fireworks stands. “We are asking everyone to act responsibly in discharging fireworks and enjoying festivities,” Reardon said.
June 27, 2007
Executive Aaron Reardon today joined other public officials at the ribbon-cutting celebration of completion of the new pedestrian walkway in the Pinewood Elementary School neighborhood in Marysville.
June 25, 2007
Artworks representing a variety of styles from six Puget Sound region artists will be on public display as part of a temporary sculpture exhibition on the Snohomish County Plaza, beginning June 20, 2007.
June 18, 2007
Executive Aaron Reardon today announced Snohomish County will launch “Partners for Health,” a new long-term health improvement strategy for employees, retirees, and spouses.
June 11, 2007
2007 Property Assessment Notices Mailed
New assessment notices will be sent to residential property owners this week and to commercial property owners next week. The new assessed values reflect the market value of each property as of January 1, 2007 and will be used to determine each property owner’s share of property taxes due in 2008.
June 11, 2007
Snohomish County Council announced the appointment of Barbara Dykes as the new Hearing Examiner for the County. Barbara previously headed the Civil Division of the Snohomish County Prosecutor’s Office.
May 25, 2007
The online program satisfies County Code requirements for mail notice of applications and decisions to citizens for land use permit projects. The project includes mail technologies to reduce or eliminate publications, postage and staff costs and implements an online information site where scanned project information including detailed public notices, narratives, site plans, project status, staff reports and other project information is available.
May 21, 2007
County Executive Aaron Reardon today announced the County has ended exploratory planning to reactivate the 183-bed Ridge Corrections facility to help ease state Department of Corrections (DOC) prison overcrowding.
May 18, 2007
Executive Reardon proclaimed the week of May 20-26 as "Snohomish County Historic Preservation Week." Thousands of individuals around the country will celebrate National Preservation Month in May.
May 17, 2007
County Executive Aaron Reardon today released a report on the activities of the community panel he formed to update the MRD Document regarding use of Snohomish County Airport (Paine Field). “MRD” is an acronym for “Mediated Role Determination”, reflecting the role of the University of Washington Office of Environmental Mediation in bringing together a panel to choose among possible airport roles and uses.
May 16, 2007
Executive Aaron Reardon has proclaimed May 18, 2007 “Bike to Work Day” as Snohomish County joins businesses and government agencies across the nation supporting efforts to encourage citizens to ride their bikes to work, school and on other occasions.
May 4, 2007
Executive Aaron Reardon will participate in Washington State Council of Fire Fighters (WSCFF), “Fire Ops 101,” May 4-5, 2007 in Richland.
April 26, 2007
Executive Aaron Reardon today announced the Sound Transit (ST) Board has approved a motion to finalize the Sound Transit 2 Regional Transit System Plan that extends Sound Transit light rail lines north to the Ash Way/164th terminus, including transit stations at Mountlake Terrace, Lynnwood Transit Center, Alderwood, and Ash/164th. The ST motion adopted today also includes funding for a Mukilteo Station parking garage, a permanent station in Edmonds for Sounder Commuter Rail, and additional service hours for ST Express Bus service.
April 25, 2007
Responding to communications and public testimony from mobile home park residents facing financial hardships due to mobile home park closures, the County Council today passed Ordinance # 07-029 unanimously.
April 25, 2007
Today the Council passed an ordinance establishing a public information officer (PIO) as a regular position in the legislative branch of government. The Council carefully weighed alternatives to meet the objectives of the County Charter and unanimously supported the PIO position as the way to promote public access to Council proceedings and other aspects of county government.
April 25, 2007
Today the Snohomish County Council unanimously approved an agreement with the Snohomish County Museum & Historical Association to perform emergency salvage, restoration, and preservation work on Snohomish County Historical documents and items.
April 24, 2007
The new Puget Park Drive Extension in south Snohomish County has been named National Transportation Project of the Year in the $2-10 million category by the American Public Works Association (APWA).
April 23, 2007
The Snohomish County Driving while Under the Influence (DUI)/Traffic Safety Task Force acknowledged 2007 award winners at recent ceremonies held at the Everett Public Utility District Auditorium.
April 23, 2007
County Executive Aaron Reardon was recently named recipient of the Washington Recreation and Parks Association’s (WRPA) Citation of Merit–Legislative for leadership in the creation and administration of the Snohomish County Enhanced Community Infrastructure Development Initiative (ECIDI).
April 20, 2007
Executive Aaron Reardon today signed the Contingent Loan Agreement preserving affordable existing housing for County low income seniors and guaranteeing bond offerings of the Housing Authority of Snohomish County (HASCO) for the Squire and Kingsbury East Mobile Home Parks (the Parks”) in Lynnwood.
April 18, 2007
The Snohomish County Council today unanimously approved a resolution, introduced by Councilmember Dave Somers, recommending that the Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway grant an operating lease that would enable the Spirit of Washington Dinner Train to relocate its’ operations from the Renton-Woodinville rail line to the Woodinville-Snohomish rail line beginning August 1, 2007.
April 18, 2007
The Snohomish County Council today proclaimed April 22 – 28 as National County Government Week in Snohomish County. Sponsored by the National Association of Counties (NACo), National County Government Week was first celebrated in 1991 to raise public awareness and understanding about the roles and responsibilities of the nation’s counties. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Protecting the Environment.”
April 18, 2007
Responding to concerns about the potential cost of a county-sponsored event to celebrate the launch of the Boeing 787, the County Council today limited for the next 60 days the Executive’s ability to sign ontracts in amounts over $5,000. Currently the Executive may sign contracts in amounts up to $50,000 without Council approval.
April 17, 2007
On May 3, 2007, the Snohomish County Office of Children’s Affairs in partnership with the Juvenile Courts will conduct Cross-Systems 101 Training Day, seminar beginning at 8:00am, at New Life Four Square Church, 6830 Highland Dr., Everett.
April 13, 2007
“This is an amazing program that places children in the hands of people that are truly looking out for that child’s best interest,” says Executive Reardon. “It is an opportunity to provide a sense of security and safety that every child deserves.”
April 11, 2007
The UDC Update Project Kickoff Event will provide the public with an advance opportunity to learn how the UDC Update Project will affect the future of Snohomish County and how citizens can play a role in the decision-making process.
UDC Update Project Kickoff Event
Wednesday, April 11, 7:00pm – 8:30pm
Snohomish County Campus, Admin. East, Meeting Room 1
3000 Rockefeller Avenue, Everett
April 10, 2007
On March 30, 2007, the Conservation Futures Program Advisory Board approved a motion recommending the expenditure of $600,000 in Conservation Futures funds to purchase properties located in the Skyview Tracts Subdivision for the purpose of providing open space and seasonal public access to the Skykomish River.
April 9, 2007
A recent fire in Everett resulted in significant water damage to the collection of the Museum of Snohomish County History. Last week, former Snohomish County Auditor Bob Terwilliger contacted Council Chair Dave Gossett to suggest appropriating a portion of filing fees dedicated to historical preservation in 2005 by the State Legislature to help with the restoration and preservation of the damaged items.
April 6, 2007
County Executive Aaron Reardon today announced the Infrastructure Coordinating Committee, a sub-committee of Snohomish County Tomorrow (SCT), has recommended funding approval for Phase 2 of the I-5/124th Street Interurban Trail Overcrossing Project.
April 4, 2007
SnoGold 2010 welcomes Washington State’s 2010 Program and communities throughout the greater Northwest for a “Community Strategies for Team Hosting” workshop and webinar from 1 to 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 11 at the Edward D. Hansen Conference Center at the Everett Events Center, 2000 Hewitt Avenue.
March 29, 2007
Amidst increasing recognition of the dangers surrounding climate change Snohomish County Councilmembers Dave Gossett, Dave Somers and Kirke Sievers sent a memo to county Executive Aaron Reardon today directing his office to work collaboratively with Council staff to compare the difference in the amount of energy consumption in county buildings as well as the level of greenhouse gases produced by the county vehicle fleet from 1996 to 2005. In 1996, Snohomish County entered into a contract with Honeywell Inc.
March 29, 2007
Governor Chris Gregoire today announced the appointment of Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon to the Washington Climate Change Challenge Advisory Team.
March 29, 2007
County Executive Aaron Reardon’s proposal to preserve affordable existing housing for County low income seniors was approved by the Snohomish County Council on March 28, 2007. The approved ordinance provides a contingent loan guarantee to bond offerings of the Housing Authority of Snohomish County (HASCO).
March 29, 2007
The Snohomish County Council chambers erupted in applause Wednesday as the Council took action to save the homes of audience members. The more than 100 residents of the Kingsbury East and Squires mobile home parks in Lynnwood were threatened with eviction when the property was recently purchased. Many are low income seniors. Mike Echelbarger, the new owner, agreed to work with residents and government to find a solution.
March 23, 2007
Executive Aaron Reardon and the Snohomish County Arts Commission invite the public to a rededication of “Snohomish County,” a nine panel mural originally created for the Snohomish County government campus in 1991 by beloved local artist, Bernie Webber. The mural was temporarily removed when the campus underwent extensive renovation.
March 13, 2007
Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon today unveiled a high-tech online mapping service that will improve County planning and offer residents a unique view of their County. The new landscape imaging program adds accuracy and speed to planning in the fastest-growing area of the county and enables a unique view to residents.
March 5, 2007
Governor Chris Gregoire has announced a plan designed to address overcrowding in state Department of Corrections (DOC) facilities. Governor Gregoire, Snohomish County Executive Aaron Reardon and DOC Secretary Harold Clarke have reached agreement to temporarily house DOC community custody violators in Snohomish County.
March 2, 2007
County Executive Aaron Reardon today proposed for Snohomish County Council approval and funding, details of the Community Enhancement Initiative announced in his February 27, 2007 State of the County Address.
February 26, 2007
Island County and Snohomish County Fire District 4 Ask to Recertify Amounts
Snohomish County Fire District 4 will now be able to recertify the correct bond amount for their district and Island County requested that the Snohomish County Assessor make a correction for Island County as well.
February 22, 2007
The November 2006 floods that hit Snohomish County were among the most catastrophic for the area in the last 100 years. Councilmember Dave Somers, Chairman of the County Council’s Planning and Community Development Committee, has requested a review of the event from the county departments involved in the response and aftermath of this major flood event.
February 21, 2007
In November of 2006, voters approved a proposition giving the County Council the discretion to adopt either annual or biennial budgets. On Tuesday the Council introduced an ordinance that updates the County Code to reflect that change.
February 19, 2007
Just Days after the 2007 Snohomish County property tax statements were mailed, the county assessor’s office informed county officials that its annual tax assessment roll was incorrect. The Assessor’s Office error resulted in the production and mailing of about 267,000 tax statements that are wrong. According to County Assessor Cindy Portmann, the error occurred because one personal property tax account with an assessed value of about $150,000,000 was left off the tax roll.
February 19, 2007
Assessor Finds Error that Will Result in a Refund or Credit of Property Taxes
The Snohomish County Assessor’s office announced today that due to an error in posting one account for personal property, all property owners in Snohomish County will either receive a refund or credit to their property taxes. Refunds or credits will range from approximately $1.88 in most areas of the county and up to an estimated $32.77 for City of Everett residents with a home valued at $350,000. The exact amounts won’t be available until the taxes due per parcel are recalculated.
February 09, 2007
Local residents interested in children’s issues have a chance to speak with local elected officials and network with child advocates in a kids rally this coming Valentine’s Day.
February 02, 2007
The Snohomish County Arts Commission has elected Rebecca Chawgo Chairperson of the 14 member cultural board. Under Ms. Chawgo’s leadership, the Arts Commission will make recommendations to Executive Reardon concerning the selection and commissioning of public artwork; and manage the installation of 7 newly approved art commissioned for parks throughout the Snohomish County region.
February 02, 2007
The Washington State Department of Ecology has awarded a grant of nearly $500,000 to the Snohomish County Solid Waste Division of Public Works, the largest Coordinated Prevention Grant (CPG) in the state for 2007-2008.
January 31, 2007
On Thursday, January 25 the annual Point in Time homelessness count was conducted. County officials spearheaded the coordinated effort across Snohomish County which included hundreds of volunteers and spanned multiple organizations. The count is used to determine the size and scope of the homeless population in the county and is required by both the State and Federal government.
January 29, 2007
The press release from the County Executive’s office regarding multi-family zoning issued on January 23, 2007 contains an error. It states that the recent vote adding an additional 90 acres of LDMR zoning was passed by a 5-0 margin. That is not correct. The vote on that issue was 4-1 with Councilmember Dave Gossett voting “no”.
January 26, 2007
On Thursday, January 25 Executive Aaron Reardon, along with numerous volunteers, elected officials, community service agencies, and County staff worked diligently to determine the size and scope of homeless population in Snohomish County. The Point In Time Count of Homeless Persons is conducted annually as a requirement of both the Federal and State governments.
January 26, 2007
County Planning and Development Services will present proposed rule changes to the County Planning Commission today that would change the way high density housing developments in Snohomish County are regulated.
January 10, 2007
The Snohomish County Council today elected Dave Gossett to serve as chair of the council for 2007. The council elected Dave Somers to serve as Vice Chair. The action was taken as the council held its first meeting of the New Year.
January 4, 2007
Carolyn Diepenbrock was appointed Wednesday by the Snohomish County Council as Snohomish County Auditor. She replaces Bob Terwilliger who has moved on the serve the County as the Superior Court Administrator.