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Washingtonians can enroll in or change their health insurance plans starting Nov. 1, amidst a federal government shutdown affecting subsidies under the Affordable Care Act. Premiums are projected to rise by an average of 21%, with nearly 300,000 residents relying on the state exchange, and officials warn that without federal tax credits, many may forgo insurance.
Lynnwood City Council approved a temporary reduction in the General Fund Reserve Policy amid a projected $2.5 million shortfall for 2025-26. Residents raised concerns about surveillance risks from Flock license plate cameras and alleged wage theft by contractors at the Enzo apartments. The Council also designated October 28 as First Responders Day.
Lynnwood's license plate reader database was accessed by out-of-state law enforcement agencies for immigration-related searches, violating state law. Police Chief Cole Langdon confirmed unauthorized searches surged shortly after the cameras became operational. The department disabled the feature and is negotiating to clarify data-sharing practices.
Washington's Paid Family & Medical Leave premium rate will rise to 1.13% starting January 1, 2026. As of 2025, over 218,000 individuals have claimed benefits totaling more than $1.76 billion. Employers contribute 28.57% of the premium, while employees cover 71.43%.
Lynnwood plans to build a three-story mixed-use building near Edmonds College, featuring 23 apartments and commercial space. Property owner Ajay Sikka aims to start construction next year, pending city approval.
Snohomish County Elections urges voters to use official ballot drop boxes to ensure timely ballot returns before Election Day, November 4. Voters can also mail their ballots but should be cautious due to recent postal service changes affecting mail processing. In-person voter registration and services will be available leading up to the election.
Olympic Fly Fishers of Edmonds will host a meeting on November 11 featuring fishing guide Mark Shimazu. His presentation will detail fishing techniques for the Yakima River throughout all four seasons. The event is free and open to the public at the Lake Ballinger Center in Mountlake Terrace.
The American Crown Circus brings family-friendly entertainment to Lynnwood from October 31 to November 3, featuring clowns, acrobatics, and aerial performances. Tickets are priced at $10 for children under 10 and $30 for adults, with VIP seating available. The circus will continue its tour through Federal Way and Vancouver, Washington.
The ongoing federal shutdown threatens food assistance for over 77,000 residents in Snohomish County as SNAP benefits may cease after Oct. 31. Local food banks are mobilizing support to mitigate hunger, while Washington State directs nearly $2.2 million weekly to aid food banks during this crisis.
Scotty’s Food Truck will operate Thursday and Saturday this week at Calvary Church, offering a menu featuring Caesar salad and Wild Alaskan seafood. The event highlights local dining options and the growing food truck trend in the community.