Everett to protect park bathrooms with automatic locks, other tech Snohomish County Tribune

Everett's City Council is poised to vote on a Parks Department proposal aimed at enhancing the security of public restrooms in the city. The initiative includes installing automatic locks and deterrents in restrooms located in downtown and city parks, with an estimated budget of $350,000 sourced from the capital improvement budget. This decision follows budget cuts that resulted in the elimination of five park ranger positions, reducing the city’s ability to monitor its 45 parks effectively. The proposed technology will allow for remote programming of restroom access controls and will feature visual and audio deterrents to discourage vandalism and misuse. Mayor Cassie Franklin highlighted the need for safety in public restrooms, pointing out that an unlocked facility can lead to dangerous activities.

Although Everett does not currently face a significant crime issue in its restrooms, the city maintains a higher-than-average national crime rate. The council's decision is anticipated during its meeting on March 12, 2025, making this proposal timely and relevant for the community. This initiative reflects a broader trend towards utilizing technology to address public safety concerns amid budgetary constraints.