Which would you prefer? Would you like to vote your mayor into office? This would mean a yes vote on Proposition 2.
Right now Snohomish has a weak mayor. This proposition would allow Snohomish voters to vote for what is called a strong mayor.
There is a lot of misconception as to what the difference is and it depends on who you ask how it is explained to you. So, I did my research.
A strong mayor is elected by the people. There is still a city council. The mayor answers to the people.
A weak mayor, a council member, is appointed by the city council. The city manager gets paid a salary, plus benefits and perks (in this case about $218,000 a year) and answers to the city council.
The current city manager does not live in Snohomish. He decided to rescind a deed that pledged Averill Field be used for playground purposes only. It actually states it on the deed more than once! The property was gifted to the city with the covenant still on the deed. He rescinded this without the council’s knowledge or approval. With a strong mayor this would not have happened. The mayor would have to answer to the people of the Snohomish. I hope the deed gets restored to maintain the integrity of Snohomish, that promises made, are promises kept. Regardless of personal agendas.
You decide. Vote your mayor into office, vote yes on Proposition 2.
Mary Hendrickson
Snohomish
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