Snohomish County does need a new and well-planned courthouse. The ongoing discussions between the city of Everett and the county do not represent the best interest of the citizens of Snohomish County. The county does not need to construct a site that includes shops and an expensive parking lot.
The County Council has the perfect space for a new courthouse — on the grounds of the old mission building. There will be many who oppose this plan and there will be loud opposition; so be it. The Mission Building is outdated, difficult to use, congested and expensive to operate. To rebuild on this site is the best option. It would provide all the facilities in one place, easy access for all citizens, and no confusing locations for different offices. In addition, tunnels are already in place to transport people from the jail to the courthouse.
When all expenses are really accounted for, the costs of building across the street are an enormous burden for the taxpayers. The costs of furnishing all the spaces will be huge. Proper and careful planning and excellent maintenance of all buildings, including the 1967 courthouse, will extend the life of our entire courthouse complex.
Re-examine your priorities and consider a better plan. By using the Mission Building lot, the parking is then resolved, and the city of Everett can use the corner of Hewitt and Rockefeller for a charming little park … and the businesses will come.
Ellen Snow and Cliff Bailey
Snohomish
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