County hearing on Snohomish northern annexation continued to Sept. 24

The Snohomish County Council will continue public hearings on September 24 regarding the annexation of 237 acres, including the North Ridge neighborhood, into the city limits. The city council approved the annexation plan in August, but county officials must also agree before it undergoes review by the Boundary Review Board. Councilman Sam Low called for extended public testimony to gather more community input, acknowledging existing opposition to the annexation. City administrator Heather Thomas-Murphy reported that city staff engaged with residents in the urban growth area, particularly the North Ridge neighborhood. Some residents have expressed concerns about being annexed, citing issues related to access and the potential for creating unannexed land.

The city plans to hire an additional public works employee to manage street maintenance, with an estimated salary of $97,500 per year. Financially, the city anticipates an increase of $15,572 in property tax revenue starting in 2027, which may grow with future developments. The annexation process remains contingent on public feedback and further approvals from county officials.