Lynnwood council May 12 to discuss proposed policy clarifying elected official residency requirements

The Lynnwood City Council will address proposed residency requirements for elected officials at its meeting on May 12. Councilmember Patrick Decker requested the discussion after concerns arose about Council Vice President Josh Binda's residency following his eviction in October 2023. Decker's proposal mandates that councilmembers live continuously within city limits for their terms, with exceptions for extreme hardship limited to 30 days over four years. The council will also recognize Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, Older Americans Month, and Memorial Day with proclamations. Furthermore, Council President Nick Coelho suggested reviewing the current cap on remote meeting attendance, as many members are nearing their limits due to work-related travel.

The council aims to finalize a new remote attendance cap within 90 days. The full agenda is accessible on the city’s website, and the meeting will be held at 6 p. m. at Lynnwood City Hall. This discussion on residency requirements could impact how future council elections are conducted.