Council Approves Motion for North Bend to Confer Law Enforcement Authority during Police Transition

The Snoqualmie City Council voted to pursue law enforcement authority from North Bend to ensure public safety amid a dispute over the 2025 Police Services Interlocal Agreement (ILA). The council's decision, made on May 22, directs staff to negotiate or litigate for this authority, which will end when the current ILA expires on May 31, 2025. Mayor Pro Tem Bryan Holloway emphasized the commitment to protect residents from both cities. A subsequent council vote on May 27 authorized the Mayor to sign agreements for law enforcement authority. Mayor Katherine Ross highlighted the necessity of maintaining public safety during the transition period.

North Bend's City Council had previously passed legislation for a new police services contract with the King County Sheriff’s Office, set to take effect on December 1, 2026. This transition will result in Snoqualmie officers losing their policing authority in North Bend unless new agreements are reached. The situation underscores the importance of cooperation between neighboring cities during this critical period.