Lynnwood Council approves farmers market agreement, reviews property tax levies, budget amendments

Lynnwood City Council approved a contract with Sound Transit to reserve the City Center Station site for a farmers market planned for spring 2026. Public hearings addressed mid-biennial budget amendments and proposed 2026 property tax levies, which could raise the average homeowner's property taxes by $209 annually. The council adopted 2026 legislative priorities aimed at securing funding for the Poplar Way Bridge and improving public defense resources. Councilmembers also adopted code updates that clarified development and parking standards while reaffirming a pause on the use of Flock license plate reader cameras. The council will continue its budget review on November 17, with final amendments anticipated for November 24.

Key proposed changes include an additional $351,000 for the legal department and a $567,000 boost for human services initiatives. The council's focus on these budget adjustments reflects the rising costs in prosecution and indigent defense. Mayor Christine Frizzell indicated that utility rate increases are necessary to fund upgrades at the Lynnwood Wastewater Treatment Plant.