County Council votes 3-2 toward Snohomish northern annexation

The Snohomish County Council approved a 3-2 vote to annex approximately 237 acres into Snohomish, moving the proposal to the Boundary Review Board for review. Residents of North Ridge, a private neighborhood of about 120 households, oppose the annexation, citing concerns about increased regulations and costs associated with city services. Councilman Sam Low noted that three-fourths of the residents he consulted do not support the annexation, putting him in a difficult position due to his constituents' desires. City leaders maintain that the annexation is necessary for growth, as North Ridge has been part of the urban growth area since the 1990s. If North Ridge is excluded from the annexation, the city risks a denial from the Boundary Review Board, according to city administrator Heather Thomas-Murphy.

The 2020 state law change allowing annexations without public votes has stirred controversy among residents seeking to maintain their self-managed community. North Ridge residents argue that they should not be treated as an "island" to be absorbed by the city. If at least 15% of registered voters in the area petition against the annexation during the review period, a public vote will be mandated.