Lynnwood City Council Introduces Preliminary 2025-2026 Biennial Budget

The Lynnwood City Council has introduced its preliminary budget for the 2025-2026 biennium, which prioritizes public services including police, public works, parks, and mental health initiatives. Finance Director Michelle Meyer reported that the estimated biennial revenues are $152. 2 million, while expenditures are projected at $156. 1 million, indicating a budget shortfall. The funding plan includes ten police officers, with five positions supported by the American Rescue Plan Act and five by a Community Oriented Policing Services grant.

Meyer pointed out that most of this funding will expire by early 2025, raising concerns about sustainability. The city is also attempting to permanently fund a senior park planner position by integrating it into the baseline budget. Mental health services are supported through a recently approved contract for medical services at the Community Justice Center. Positions such as maintenance workers for graffiti remediation remain unfunded, and the city has not received requests for additional funding from other departments. As the budget process unfolds, city officials will continue to evaluate financial needs and potential adjustments.