Mayor's corner

On Oct. 30 I presented the City's proposed 2020 budget, built on a strong foundation of seven quality-of-life priorities that I believe will serve our community well for years to come and supports the important services the City provides to its residents and businesses.

One of my top priorities is ensuring the people of Everett are safe. That’s why over half of our proposed general fund expenditures will support investments in fire, police and other public safety programs.

The proposed 2020 budget also supports efforts that encourage economic growth to bring more businesses, jobs and commerce to our city.

And, our proposed budget invests in essential city infrastructure, including transit, roadways, and pedestrian safety. The passage of Initiative 976, however, will significantly impact funding for some of these services. For more details of the proposed budget, community members can watch and read my budget address on the City’s website.

Mayor Cassie Franklin giving 2020 budget address

Rucker Renewal update

Rucker Renewal Phase 1 construction is nearing the end! Sunny weather helped contractors make significant progress on concrete pouring, and Hoyt reopened to traffic on Nov. 5. Concrete work on roads, curbs and sidewalks continues along Rucker with additional intersections expected to reopen in the coming weeks. Visit everettwa.gov/RuckerRenewal for updates on progress and next steps, and sign up for email or text alerts so you don't miss a thing!

Evergreen Branch Library set to reopen Dec. 6

The moment we’ve been waiting for is almost here! The Evergreen Branch of the Everett Public Library, will reopen to the public on Friday, Dec. 6 at 2 p.m. with a grand reopening celebration and ribbon-cutting. The Evergreen Branch will resume full library service on Saturday, Dec. 7 at 10 a.m. and the community is invited to a weekend of family-friendly programming.

As the library prepares to reopen the Evergreen Branch, the Library Board of Trustees has approved a change in library service hours, effective Sunday, Dec. 1, 2019, to respond to an increased need for library services and resources on Thursday evenings.

Rendering of new Evergreen Branch Library sign

Transit's Customer Service Center gets a makeover

Everett Transit’s Customer Service Center will be temporarily closed for renovations Nov. 11-22. Help will still be available inside Everett Station and can help with ORCA card reloads (ORCA ticket vending machine), trip planning, and lost and found. Customers looking to purchase a Regional Reduced Fare Permits, or youth, senior,or replacement cards can go to the Lynnwood Ride Store or select QFC or Safeway locations for ORCA card reloads. Learn more at everetttransit.org/alertcenter.

Double the swim time for Everett residents

Everett city residents will have two indoor pools to enjoy when the new Everett YMCA pool opens in December 2019! Through a partnership between the Everett Family YMCA and the Forest Park Swim Center, locals can enjoy twice the space and additional swim times for affordable aquatic fitness play, with no membership required. For speedier entry to the YMCA pool, stop by the Everett Recreation Office at Forest Park or Everett YMCA in advance to get a background check and verify residency. Learn more

Shelly the cat at Everett Animal Shelter

Pet of the month: Shelly

If you love having conversations with your cat, Shelly might be the cat you're looking for. Whether it’s the weather or philosophy, she's open to any topic. Not only is she great company, but just look at those gorgeous green eyes! *swoon* She has been patiently waiting for a quiet retirement home where she can be your one and only. She enjoys spending time out in the catio, eating, lounging and being brushed.

Learn more about the adoptable animals at the Everett Animal Shelter and how you can support them at everettwa.gov/animals.

Community events

City offices will be closed Monday, Nov. 11 in observation of Veterans Day. Everett Transit and Everett Para Transit will operate on a regular weekday schedule.

Everett Transit’s Stuff a Bus event returns to the Murphy's Corner Fred Meyer Nov. 30, Dec. 1, Dec. 7 & 8, and Dec. 14 & 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. collecting food, toys and other essential items for families in need in Snohomish County. Swing by and drop off donations to help stuff the bus!

Save the date to celebrate seasonal merriment at Wintertide! All are invited to this free family-friendly celebration on Thursday, Dec. 5, from 4–7 p.m. at the Everett Performing Arts Center. Enjoy arts and crafts, face painting, entertainment, cookies and cocoa, a photo booth and more! A special jolly old elf will also stop by for photos at 5:30 p.m.

Keep the holiday celebrations going with the Annual Holiday Craft Bazaar Dec. 6 & 7, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days, at the Carl Gipson Senior Center. Local vendors and artisans will offer a variety of crafts such as jewelry, home decor, accessories and more! Find handcrafted treasures for yourself and all those on your holiday gift list.