** Pay Herald reporters fairly, without quotas

Lynnwood, WALocal News

In a compelling opinion piece, Lynnwood city councilman Josh Binda articulates his endorsement of the Everett NewsGuild and The Herald journalists in their fight for fair wages and protections against unreasonable story quotas. He contends that the proposed starting wage of $20. 50 per hour is inadequate given the rising cost of living in the area. Binda warns that linking wages to story production threatens journalistic integrity, prioritizing quantity over the depth and thoroughness the community deserves. He highlights the essential role journalists play in educating residents and fostering public discourse, vital for democratic accountability.

Binda encourages community members to support local journalists in this crucial fight for fair treatment, asserting that a strong local news organization is essential for democracy and quality of life in Snohomish County. By advocating for fair compensation, Binda believes journalists can focus on high-quality reporting, ultimately benefiting the community.

Related Articles

Meet the artists reception at Lynnwood Event Center exhibit Pacific Northwest Perspectives Sept. 16

The Lynnwood Event Center hosts a "Meet the Artists" reception on September 16, 2025, featuring local artists from the Pacific Northwest. The event showcases works from various states, including Washington, Oregon, and Alaska, and aims to promote regional artistry. Attendees can explore the unique perspectives of participating artists at this free event.

2026 workers comp rate increase proposed to help pay for rising cost of coverage

The Washington State Department of Labor & Industries proposes a 4.9% increase in workers' compensation insurance rates for 2026 to cover rising benefit costs. This change, if adopted, would raise coverage costs by approximately $1.37 per week for full-time employees. Public hearings are scheduled for late October to gather input from residents.

The quest to make WAs legal system more accessible for people with disabilities

G. Helen Whitener, a Black immigrant woman and Washington state Supreme Court Justice, leads efforts to improve accessibility for people with disabilities in the legal system. Her Disability Justice Task Force recently released a comprehensive report highlighting significant barriers faced by individuals with disabilities in Washington courts. The findings emphasize the need for better training and accommodations to ensure equitable access to justice.