National Assessment of Pandemic Recovery Efforts Identifies Snohomish County as a High Performer in Advancing Equity

In a recent independent report by The New School's Institute on Race, Power and Political Economy, Snohomish County has been identified as a top performer in advancing equity through the use of federal pandemic recovery funds. The assessment examined 170 large city and county governments in the U. S. , where Snohomish County stood out as a "high performer" for its equity initiatives. County Executive Dave Somers welcomed the recognition, emphasizing that prioritizing equity was crucial in recovery efforts.

The report specifically highlighted the county's "Recovery Roadshows," which engaged diverse communities to gather input on recovery priorities. These events included partnerships with local food trucks, children's activities, and language translation services to ensure inclusivity. Impressively, 75 percent of the funds budgeted by Snohomish County were focused on equity, showcasing a commitment to transparent outcomes. Wil Johnson, the county’s Chief DEI Officer, noted the importance of this recognition in building a solid foundation for future equity work. The report not only affirms Snohomish County's efforts but also encourages other jurisdictions to elevate their equity initiatives.