Latest News in Snohomish, WA

Everett Film Festival April 5-6 is chance to see unique flicks

The Everett Film Festival is set to take place on April 5-6, featuring a diverse lineup of films, including documentaries that highlight local Native American issues and the story of Seattle's unique Chinese Community Girls Drill Team. Festival director Teresa Henderson expressed pride in the festival's resilience following a two-year hiatus due to the pandemic, despite facing challenges with ticket sales this year. The event aims to provide a space for community engagement and enjoyment through film.

Local measles cases put containment efforts into overdrive risk is low for previously vaccinated

Snohomish County health officials are urging residents to prioritize vaccinations following recent measles cases, emphasizing the importance of immunization to prevent the spread of this highly contagious disease. Despite two confirmed cases linked to an infant and an adult, health authorities believe the risk of further outbreak is minimal due to effective isolation measures. The article highlights the critical role of maintaining high vaccination rates to achieve herd immunity and protect public health.

Snohomish Fire has EMS levy lift on August ballots

Voters in Snohomish will decide in August whether to restore the fire district's EMS levy from 36 cents to 50 cents per $1,000 of assessed property value. This increase aims to address rising operational costs and hire additional firefighter-paramedics to meet increasing call volumes. Fire Chief Don Waller emphasizes the necessity of additional personnel to ensure effective emergency response in the community.

Homeless housing site in Everett lays unused after disagreements between operators

The Faith Family Village in Everett, designed to temporarily shelter homeless families, has gone on hiatus due to operational disagreements among its managing organizations. Initially opened in September 2023, the project successfully housed 22 families before its closure. Organizers are now planning to revive the initiative under a new name, Madison Family Village, to continue providing necessary support to families in need.

Council eases laws on day cares in rural areas of Snohomish County

Snohomish County is grappling with a significant child care shortage, with only 62 slots available for every 100 working parents of young children, falling short of the state average. In response, the County Council has unanimously passed an ordinance aimed at easing regulations for child care facilities, particularly in rural areas. While this initiative is a step forward, experts caution that it may not fully resolve the underlying issues, such as the lack of qualified teachers.

Soccer for all, big and small

The article highlights a soccer skills class for toddlers at the Snohomish Sports Dome, emphasizing the joyful experience of young participants like Winnie. Taught by coaches Cody Duncan and Mikaela Warburton, this class is designed to introduce soccer skills in a fun and engaging way. The piece also touches on the personal aspect of Winnie, whose parent describes her as shy.

Proposed large-scale housing site next to Glacier Peak High approved at county, and hit with appeals

The Snohomish County hearing examiner's approval of the Eastview Village housing development has prompted four parties to request a reconsideration, citing errors in traffic analysis and environmental concerns. The proposed development, which spans 144 acres near local schools, is expected to significantly increase traffic in the area without adequate infrastructure improvements. Opponents, including local residents and organizations, argue that the decision favors developer interests over community and environmental health.

Man who stabbed 13-year-old in mid-January on Broadway pleaded not guilty, trial is April

Andrew Freeman Jr., a 21-year-old man, pleaded not guilty to charges of first-degree assault after allegedly stabbing a 13-year-old boy in Everett while the victim was walking to school. The incident occurred shortly after Freeman's release from prison, raising concerns about community safety. His trial is set for April 11, with bail set at $2 million.

Snohomish PDs plans for license plate cameras for crime prevention

The city of Snohomish plans to implement Flock-brand license plate reading cameras at three intersections to enhance crime prevention efforts. While the police chief assures that the footage will be kept private and not shared with federal authorities, concerns about potential misreads affecting innocent drivers have been raised. The move aligns with similar initiatives in neighboring cities like Everett and Stanwood, prompting discussions about the implications of such technology.

City of Snohomish Issues Key Development Decisions for Residential and Mixed-Use Projects

The City of Snohomish has issued two significant planning decisions affecting local development. The first is a Notice of Decision for a Planned Residential Development that will subdivide a 12.83-acre site into 39 single-family lots, while the second is a Mitigated Determination of Non-Significance for a mixed-use and townhome development near Avenue D and Bonneville Avenue. These decisions reflect ongoing efforts to shape the community's growth and infrastructure.