Your trusted source for local Lynnwood, WA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Washington will impose higher fines for littering, increasing penalties from $103 to $256. A new law also delays the requirement for thicker plastic grocery bags from 2026 to 2028, allowing time to review state bag policies.
Shorewood dominated the Wesco 3A South Championships, with the boys' team scoring 217 points and the girls' team placing second with 131.5 points, while the Edmonds-Woodway Warriors secured a spot in the 3A State Tournament after defeating Mount Vernon 11-1. The Warriors' standout performance included 16 hits, led by Catie Ingalls, who achieved three hits in the game.
Lynnwood appointed Robert K. Grant as its first Municipal Court Commissioner, effective following a private swearing-in ceremony last month. Grant, a former deputy prosecutor and assistant attorney general, brings extensive legal experience, having handled serious felony cases and worked in environmental law. His appointment addresses a rising caseload in Lynnwood Municipal Court, with nearly 67,000 cases filed in 2024.
The Lynnwood City Council will discuss public defense services and wastewater treatment upgrades during its Monday meeting. Patrick Feldman will present on potential reforms that could lower public defender caseloads by 30% starting July 1, 2025. The council will also consider implementing tax increment financing to support infrastructure improvements.
The Washington State Department of Transportation advises travelers to plan ahead for heavy traffic during Memorial Day weekend, with key routes expected to see increased congestion. Most highway construction will pause to alleviate delays, but travelers should remain vigilant for possible lane shifts and emergency repairs. Reservations for Washington state ferry routes are strongly encouraged due to anticipated crowds.
Tolling on the Interstate 5 bridge across the Columbia River will begin in summer 2027, a year later than expected, potentially leading to higher rates for drivers. The Bi-State Tolling Subcommittee recommended increasing toll rates in the second and third years to compensate for lost revenue. Each state's transportation commission must approve the recommendations before finalizing the toll rates.
Lynnwood's City Council members express mixed opinions on local policies and appointments, particularly regarding parks and residency requirements. Comments from citizens highlight support for Parks Director Joel Fabre and concerns over Councilman Binda's qualifications. The ongoing discourse reflects significant community engagement in local governance.
Local high school jazz musicians showcased their talents during the annual Jazz Connection in downtown Edmonds on Saturday. Sponsored by the Rotary Club of Edmonds Daybreakers, the event awarded $2,500 scholarships to five graduating seniors to support their higher education goals.
Washington's Gov. Bob Ferguson signed House Bill 1052, clarifying the state's hate crime laws to include offenses motivated in part by bias. The new legislation allows prosecutors to hold offenders accountable even when hate is one of multiple motives. Rep. Cindy Ryu emphasized that this change addresses the ambiguity that often leaves hate crimes unpunished.
The Edmonds New Start Center for emergency housing remains in the permitting phase, while the Everett facility has received its permits. Both centers, part of a $37 million budget funded by federal and county sources, aim to provide essential services for individuals experiencing homelessness.