Lake Stevens officials plan out-of-town retreat

LAKE STEVENS — The City Council and department heads will conduct a one-day retreat Saturdayin Pacific Beach, north of Ocean Shores.

The council planned the retreat away from the city so members can fully focus, said Glenn McLoughlin, council president.

"We typically want the separation, to be away from the (local) environment," he said. "We’ve always been very rushed through our retreats, and I don’t think we’ve accomplished what we’ve wanted to. This way, we don’t have to worry about traveling home. People are really into this."

The council expects to have the agenda set next week.

The cost of the retreat at the Pacific Beach Resort and Conference Center is expected to be less than $1,000, McLoughlin said.

"Usually, we have them fairly local, but you still have to pay for the facility and caterers and things. You have several meals," city clerk-administrative assistant Norma Scott said.

The council will use the retreat to set its priorities for the year.

Department heads are included because the council members need someone to respond to their questions and provide details, she said.

Reporter Cathy Logg: 425-339-3437 or logg@heraldnet.com.