Lynnwood City Attorney, councilmembers question Deckers proposed policy on residency requirements

In a recent meeting, the Lynnwood City Council debated changes to residency requirements for elected officials, prompted by questions about Council Vice President Josh Binda's residency. Councilmember Patrick Decker introduced a proposed ordinance aimed at enhancing the city's residency rules, requiring officials to be active registered voters residing within city limits. The ordinance includes provisions for councilmembers needing to live outside the city temporarily, necessitating hardship documentation. Furthermore, residents can request proof of residency for elected officials biannually, with a 15-day response requirement. City Attorney Lisa Marshall expressed concerns about the potential complexities tied to these proof-of-residency requests and the associated public records obligations.

The proposed changes seek to bolster accountability among elected officials and address community concerns. The council's ongoing discussions highlight the importance of transparency in local governance. As the council considers the ordinance, the outcome could significantly impact how residency requirements are enforced.