Everett Mayor Cassie Franklin Addresses the 2025 Budget My Everett News

In a recent City Council meeting, Everett Mayor Cassie Franklin outlined her proposed budget for 2025, which aims to resolve a $12. 6 million deficit while ensuring the continuity of vital public services. The balanced budget reflects a commitment to public safety, quality of life, and economic growth, even as it necessitates cuts affecting 55 city employees. Among the changes, the park ranger program will be eliminated, although emergency response levels will remain intact. The budget also includes reductions to library funding, but Franklin reassured residents that efforts would be made to keep both libraries operational.

She highlighted the city's legal obligation to present a balanced budget, emphasizing the importance of community engagement in determining revenue options. Despite voters rejecting a proposed levy lid lift, their feedback clarified a desire to maintain current tax levels. Franklin's address underscores the difficult financial landscape faced by the city, which is not unique to Everett. Ultimately, the proposed budget represents a strategic approach to navigating fiscal challenges while prioritizing essential services for residents.