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Washington State Ferries offers two decommissioned vessels, the Hyak and Klahowya, for sale without a minimum bid. However, potential buyers face significant hurdles, including regulatory approvals and stripped components, making sales challenging. The agency may resort to recycling if no suitable buyers emerge.
Lynnwood City Council proposed raising sewer connection charges by over $7,000 and instituting a new $1,932 water connection charge to address an estimated $8 million deficit in 2026. The council also considered increasing permit fees up to 40% for large projects and discussed the allocation of $1 million from the city's affordable housing fund.
The Edmonds Arts Festival Foundation allocates $29,500 to support local art education impacted by Edmonds School District budget cuts. The funding aims to enhance creativity in schools through partnerships and restore art classes for special education students.
The Lynnwood City Council plans to vote on a 53% property tax levy increase and a utility tax hike from 6% to 10% at its November 24 meeting. The property tax increase aims to address an $8 million budget gap for the upcoming year, while the utility tax adjustment is the first in a decade.
The Kicking Gas campaign will host an online information session on transitioning to electric heating on December 3 in Snohomish County. Homeowners can learn about energy-efficient solutions and qualify for subsidies by attending the session. The program aims to help residents save on energy costs and improve indoor air quality.
The Lynnwood Chamber invites community members to register for its annual ugly sweater contest and meeting on December 17. Participants can join in the festivities while contributing to a charitable cause.
The Lynnwood Public Menorah Lighting and Celebration of Hanukkah will occur at 4 p.m. on December 21 at the Lynnwood City Center Light Rail Station. The event will include holiday treats, live music, and a “Gelt Drop” from a fire truck, marking its 14th year organized by the Chabad Jewish Center of Snohomish County.
Sales of Washington's annual Discover Pass fell 23% in October following a price increase, but revenue rose 16% year-over-year. The state expects pass sales to decline by an average of 15% over the current budget cycle while still generating more revenue due to the $15 price hike.
Washington state will increase the minimum price of plastic film carryout bags to 12 cents starting January 1, 2026, as part of a law to encourage reusable bags. The price for paper bags will remain at eight cents. Ecology officials emphasize that bringing your own bags can help reduce environmental impact and avoid the new fees.
The Edmonds School District Board adopted school improvement plans and reviewed financial reports during its Nov. 18 meeting. The District reported a fund balance of 8.61%, slightly above the minimum threshold, while anticipating a decline in student enrollment for the 2025-2026 school year.