Josh Binda launches Fair Pay Lynnwood initiative to boost minimum wage

Lynnwood City Councilmember Josh Binda launched the “Fair Pay Lynnwood” initiative, proposing to raise the minimum wage from $16. 66 to $20. 24 for businesses with 15 or more employees by summer 2026. The initiative will phase in wage increases for businesses with 15 to 499 employees while requiring larger employers to comply by July 2026. Binda highlighted the economic struggles faced by families, particularly following recent federal cuts to SNAP benefits, stating, “This is a crisis that demands immediate attention.

” He intends to collect signatures to potentially place the measure on the February 2026 ballot, advocating for an ordinance if necessary. Supporters, including local union leaders and Seattle mayoral candidate Katie Wilson, emphasize the initiative's regional popularity and bipartisan backing. Wilson pointed out that similar measures in nearby cities have passed overwhelmingly, indicating strong community support. According to state estimates, a minimum wage worker would take home about $2,390 a month, while average rent in Lynnwood ranges from $1,600 to $1,800. The disparity between wages and living costs underscores the need for such initiatives to ensure economic stability for residents.