Everett citizens looking for a wave of change

Herald staff

Not everyone agrees what should be done with the Everett waterfront, but most agree it’s time to do something.

At The Herald’s waterfront town hall meeting Saturday in Everett, many of the 150 or so people in the crowd were regulars to public meetings about the waterfront.

Some were there in support of preserving natural areas in east Everett. Some were north Everett residents concerned about industrial expansion in the port. Some were public officials looking for new ideas.

Here’s what some of them said:

More recreation: "It’s encouraging they are looking at what’s done well and what isn’t," said John Flowers, an attorney from north Everett.

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Arts and entertainment: "Everett doesn’t have a lot of venues" for concerts, said John Hanks, who works in the arts community. "We need open-air amphitheaters that work on land and water. I think it will happen."

Wildlife preservation: "There’s got to be more emphasis on wildlife habitat and preservation," said Bobbi Cross, a board member for the Pilchuck Audubon Society. "A lot of people say what’s the point, because the city council hasn’t listened before."

Lack of leadership: "There’s a lack of leadership at the city and port," said David Mascarenas, who lives in north Everett. "They’ve been systematically closing access, but they don’t care."

More involvement: "I would like to see more people involved," said Everett City Council member Dan Warnock. "This needs to go to the neighborhood associations to get more involvement. I think the city has taken efforts to get people involved."

Working together: "I think we all want something wonderful," said Jean Molloy of Everett, who would like to see public walkways and shopping. "There’s hope. We can do this in a creative way."