Mount Vernon City Council Meeting - February 11, 2026

The City of Mount Vernon, WA City Council held a meeting on February 11, 2026, which included a significant discussion on the proposed reinstatement of the Mount Vernon Police Department's K9 program. The council reviewed a resolution (1090) to fund the purchase of a new drug detection canine, associated vehicle, equipment, and training, with funding proposed from opioid settlement funds and general fund vacancy savings. The meeting featured extensive public comment both in support of and opposition to the K9 program, with concerns raised about the use of opioid settlement funds, the program's policy clarity, and community priorities for addiction treatment and prevention programs. The council debated the financial and policy implications, including the allocation of approximately $100,000 in opioid settlement funds and the impact on the iOS program. After discussion, the resolution to approve the K9 program funding failed with a 4-3 vote. The council agreed to further discuss the K9 program policies, funding, and public input in upcoming meetings, including a potential budget amendment and community engagement on opioid settlement fund use. Additionally, the council authorized a $3.76 million state grant agreement for the Carpenter Creek Hickox Road Fish Passage improvement project, a capital infrastructure initiative.