The elections will have an impact on jobs and the economic future of our county for many years. Voters are frequently misled to believe these elections are contests between environmental candidates and pro-growth candidates. The truth is protecting the environment and creating jobs are not mutually exclusive.
New jobs create growth and expand the tax base. Good paying jobs and job growth are required to maintain our quality of life and pay for the services that government provides.
Some recent decisions made by the county council have been presented as environmental protection. They are not! A number of these decisions are reaping havoc on our county’s economy and jobs.
Consider the following facts: Housing related businesses represent the third largest group of employees in the county. Because of delays in county permitting, the number of approved housing lot applications is approximately 80 percent less than in 1999. Since 1994, Snohomish County has collected $32 million in traffic mitigation fees, but has spent only $11 million of these funds. The result is a loss of more jobs and traffic congestion.
Snohomish County Planning Department is larger than ever and has grown to 237 employees. However, this department is years behind schedule in revising and streamlining its regulations and procedures. So, it takes longer and longer to approve building permits and this makes housing less affordable.
The present county council has created a no-growth environment, traffic congestion, a loss of jobs, and a lack of affordable housing. That means more unemployment, business failures and a much reduced tax base. We need some changes on the county council.
Electing John Koster and Jeff Sax will provide a responsible balanced agenda. They have the experience, maturity and integrity to serve the best interests of all of the citizens of Snohomish County.
Everett
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