As former mayor of Everett, I understand the unique challenges our city faces and the sometimes disproportionately greater burden that we are asked to bear in addressing issues that extend beyond our city limits.
That’s why I was particularly disappointed to see the push-back Mayor Cassie Franklin is receiving from the Washington state Department of Transportation and its partner agencies for rightfully asking them to be more transparent and accountable for the additional impact their state clean-ups will bring into the city. The DOT is adding to the challenges we are facing addressing homelessness without a clear plan for shelter locations, what services will be offered or pathways to permanent housing.
These decisions greatly affect the quality of life for Everett residents and businesses and overburdens the city’s public safety teams. Mayor Franklin has long been a homeless advocate and a housing champion. Long before she became our mayor, she was CEO of Cocoon House, she served on national boards to ensure safety for homeless teens, she actively participated in the Everett Community Streets Initiative and as a city council member, she worked to ensure Clare’s Place was successfully brought to Everett.
There is no one who partners more to advocate for successful housing and shelter programs. Everett is a city of compassion and care; however, we also must have limitations on the amount of services and shelter that we offer here to ensure they can be successful and effective. I ask that our state and partner agencies make it a priority to understand how their decisions affect our local municipalities and commit to working with these municipalities to find better solutions.
Ray Stephanson
Everett
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