Everett Mayor Cassie Franklin delivered her fifth State of the City Address, where she issued five new directives to address some of the city’s challenges and support the community’s ultimate vision of ensuring the best quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors. Mayor Franklin’s priorities include education, parks and recreation, downtown revitalization, violence prevention, economic development, behavioral health, housing, and climate action.
In her remarks, Mayor Franklin shared new public safety directives that will help keep residents safe and give law enforcement the resources they need to be successful. This includes establishing a violent crime unit that will focus on the response and investigation of violent crimes throughout the community, advocating for common-sense gun laws at the state and federal levels, pursuing Extreme Risk Protection Orders, and more.
Mayor Franklin also discussed Housing Choices for All, where she will direct staff to move forward with strategies to help increase the housing supply at all price points, including permit streamlining and development incentives. The city also continues to help its unsheltered population find increased support and services while finding long-term housing solutions.
The Mayor also cited efforts to combat climate change and build a resilient community by continuing to electrify their bus fleet, transition buildings away from fossil fuels, and develop an urban forest management plan.
Watch Mayor Franklin’s full speech here.