County auditor dismisses challenge of Councilmember Bindas residency, voter registration

Snohomish County Auditor Garth Fell dismissed a challenge to Councilmember Josh Binda's voter registration, affirming the validity of Binda's updated Lynnwood address. Diodato Boucsieguez, a Lynnwood resident and previous leader of a recall campaign against Binda, contended that Binda did not reside in Lynnwood as required for city office. On the day of the hearing, Binda updated his registration to reflect a Lynnwood apartment and provided a certificate of renter's insurance dated February 11. However, the insurance was under his father's name, raising questions about Binda's residency. Fell concluded that Boucsieguez did not provide convincing evidence to refute Binda's claim of residency at the new address.

Binda expressed gratitude for the ruling and emphasized his commitment to his work for the community. The dispute reflects ongoing public scrutiny of Binda's residency following media reports questioning his living arrangements. This case may prompt the council to reconsider the city’s electoral residency requirements.