Some wishes for local cities for the new year

Now that 2004 has arrived, here are some suggested New Year’s wishes for cities in South Snohomish and North King Counties:

For Edmonds, here’s hoping that an improved economy will bring enough money into the city’s cash register to stave off cuts for at least another year; that ridership on commuter rail will be so great that more trains will be added sooner than planned; and, maybe the toughest of all, that city critics and officials can somehow get along.

In Lake Forest Park, a wary eye may be needed by officials as the Brightwater wastewater project plans its way through the city. That eye will come in handy, too, as the officials look for ways to increase business-related revenue without impacting the neighborhoods that are the city’s trademark.

In Lynnwood, city officials have made great strides in getting convention center and city center projects off the ground. Now, they need to make sure that progress, not politically motivated bickering, remains the goal and to keep Lynnwood the economic engine of South Snohomish County.

In 2004, Mountlake Terrace City Council members need to call a truce. At least one Council member should wave a while flag, or call a cease-fire, before another year of squabbling ensues. The first meeting of the new Council, on Jan. 5, will see two new members taking seats alongside seasoned warriors. If there is a time for peace, and there is, that time is now.

Hopefully the Mill Creek Town Center project can not only continue to develop, but also become the true heart of the community and its surrounding region. Here’s wishing that the proposed community center finally come to a public vote, and that the city and its Council finalize a reasonable proposal to send to the electorate.

In Shoreline, to all sides involved in city government issues, should go big helpings of tolerance and vision in recognition that to make the city a better place to live, working together is the best way to move ahead.