Everett City Council Meeting: December 11, 2024

The City of Everett held a City Council meeting on December 11, 2024, with significant focus on procurement and budget-related topics. A major agenda item was the briefing and upcoming vote on the Everett outdoor multi-purpose stadium project, including site selection between the school district's Funko Field and a new downtown location. The fiscal advisory committee presented detailed funding strategies emphasizing the use of Capital Improvement Program (CIP) funds, bonding, and partnerships with the county, state, and private entities such as the Everett AquaSox and USL soccer. The committee recommended no new levies or tax increases and highlighted the economic benefits and job creation potential of the project. Council members requested more detailed financial data and clarity on funding gaps, cost estimates, and revenue projections, which staff committed to provide before the final vote. Additionally, the council discussed utility rate increases for 2025-2028 driven by regulatory requirements and aging infrastructure, with a comprehensive cost of service study presented. The meeting also included public comments on community services and homelessness, but no direct procurement actions were taken beyond the stadium project briefing. The council approved consent agenda items and moved forward with budget amendments and salary ordinance readings related to city employee wages.