Lynnwood approves youth council, public defense attorney requests 15k contract increase

The Lynnwood City Council officially adopted an ordinance to establish a youth council, marking a significant milestone for local youth engagement in government. Proposed by Councilmember Derica Escamilla, the council will consist of 15 members aged 14 to 19 and will act as an official advisory board. Recruitment efforts will begin in the fall, with applications expected to open later in the year. The council also addressed a request from Feldman and Lee, the city's public defense firm, for a $15,000 increase in its monthly contract. This request stems from new caseload standards imposed by the Washington Supreme Court, which will reduce the number of cases attorneys can manage annually.

The firm plans to hire a fourth attorney to meet these new requirements, as current attorneys are projected to exceed their limits before the end of 2025. Council Vice President Josh Binda emphasized the youth council's role in giving young people a voice in local governance. Escamilla expressed gratitude to everyone involved in bringing the youth council to fruition, emphasizing its potential to shape the future of Lynnwood.