Another ‘Everett as usual’ project?

I have been following what The Herald dishes out about the arena project and sense that we are in the midst of an Everett as usual picture once again. Sure we want to use the available tax money for an arena or civic center, but why does it have to be on what is already such a congested intersection? Why does it have to replace buildings on the historic register, and why does it have to look so utterly cheap and ugly? Has the Mayor and the Planning Department got that much power that they can just go ahead and purchase more land for twice market price, kick out all the tenants, ram an agenda down both the citizens’ and city councils’ throats then expect a pat on the back?

Many well-written letters about the saga of “battleship” Everett have been published, but I am also concerned about the direction this thing has taken. The city has a performing arts center, a baseball team, an indoor soccer arena and a hand full of other public facilities. Where is all the business that is springing up around these properties? Isn’t it the job of the city to create worthwhile projects that attract the private sector?

Does anyone think that we could improve Interstate 5 and routes 2 and 9 before we decide to invite 10,000 people to our downtown? And wouldn’t the new transportation center be a better location for moving people in and out of our city?

Here we go again with saying yes to any old thing that comes along. Or maybe this is just a case of the city painting itself into a corner. Either way, the people of Everett deserve a top-quality facility and need to know that their voice will be heard. If you believe that we need a popular vote on this arena, then find a copy of the petition and sign it before Jan. 25.

Everett

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Opinion

toon
Editorial cartoons for Saturday, Feb. 15

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

Rivian, based in Irvine, Calif., has introduced its new R2 models, smaller and more affordable SUVs. (Rivian)
Editorial: Open electric vehicle market to direct sales

Legislation would allow EV makers to sell directly to customers, making lease or purchase easier.

Eco-nomics: Climate change is making insurance a risky bet

Keeping home insurance affordable amid climate change will take adaptation to threats and broader efforts.

Comment: Keeping health care fair, affordable as costs rise

Bills in the state Senate would look to control costs and keep decisions in the hands of providers.

Comment: Proposal takes a swipe at credit card swipe fees

State legislation would exempt taxes and gratuities from the fees that credit card firms charge businesses.

Forum: State church leaders call for compasion for immigrants

Scripture repeatedly instructs us to love our neighbor and show the stranger hospitality.

Forum: Support state legislation to reform policing, corrections

One bill would harmonize standards for agency leadership; another would clarify review of corrections facilities.

The Buzz: When you gotta boogie, best to shake it off, kid

A pasquidadian review of the week’s news.

People walk adjacent to the border with Canada at the Peace Arch in Peace Arch Historical State Park, where cars behind wait to enter Canada at the border crossing Monday, Aug. 9, 2021, in Blaine, Wash. Canada lifted its prohibition on Americans crossing the border to shop, vacation or visit, but America kept similar restrictions in place, part of a bumpy return to normalcy from coronavirus travel bans. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
Editorial: U.S. and Canada better neighbors than housemates

President Trump may be serious about annexing Canada, but it’s a deal fraught with complexities for all.

Schwab: If you’re OK with foreign aid cuts, guess who’s next

At some point, if they haven’t already, Trump’s and Musk’s cuts will hit all but a very elite few.

Poor planning behind Snohomish PUD rate increase

It did not take long in 2025 for the Snohomish Public Utility… Continue reading

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.