I suggest that Mayor Ray Stephanson’s newly established task force to address street-level nuisances consider implementing a Community Court system similar to the one currently used by the city of Spokane.
The Community Court would be a valuable adjunct to the establishment of an Alcohol Impact Area (prohibits the sale of certain low-price, high-alcohol content beverages) in the core of Everett’s downtown. I also encourage Everett’s mayor and City Council to request that the Washington State Liquor Control Board establish an AIA as soon as possible for the affected area(s).
Spokane’s Community Court is a system that offers chronic, nonviolent offenders intense supervision instead of jail time. It also requires defendants get help with their problems such as homelessness, addictions and health care.
Everett officials should talk with the city of Spokane to learn from their successes struggling with street-level nuisances.
Sandra Kramer
Everett
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