Everett adds ‘no sit, no lie’ zone around children’s museum

Everett has expanded its 'no-sit, no-lie' zone to include the area surrounding the Imagine Children’s Museum, marking the fourth such buffer zone established in the city. This initiative follows a city council ordinance passed in 2021 to address public safety concerns related to homelessness and street-level issues. The designated area stretches between California and 33rd Streets, and from Grand to Oakes Avenues. Critics, including civil rights advocates, argue that these measures unfairly penalize the homeless population and complicate their access to vital services. City officials emphasize their commitment to outreach services through social workers who connect individuals with necessary resources.

Elee Wood, the CEO of the Imagine Children’s Museum, expressed hope that the zone would improve perceived safety for families visiting the museum. As of late October, local police had issued 30 warnings and four citations within existing buffer zones. The ongoing debate highlights the tension between public safety initiatives and the rights of vulnerable populations in urban settings.