Council Passes Everett “Safe City” Resolution

Last night the Everett City Council unanimously passed a resolution assuring people Everett is a safe city for all. The resolution was brought forth by City Council member Cassie Franklin following earlier proclamations by Everett Mayor Ray Stephanson.

During the public comment portion of the deliberation two people addressed the council both speaking against the resolution and expressing concern that people who “speak the same language as you and I” are not being treated fairly. After hearing from them, the council voted to pass the resolution 5 – 0. Council members Brenda Stonecipher and Judy Tuohy were both absent but expressed their support at the previous council meeting.

Here’s a press release issued by the City of Everett today regarding the passing of the resolution…

The Everett City Council on Wednesday unanimously passed a joint resolution with Everett Mayor Ray Stephanson declaring an equitable, inviting and safe community for all who live in and visit Everett.

“This is in many ways, stating the obvious. This is our policy, this is what we do. We want Everett to be a safe, inviting, welcoming city for all of our residents,” Councilmember Cassie Franklin said at the meeting.

The resolution expresses the City’s commitment to uphold the rights of all individuals in the community and to strongly condemn bullying, violence, harassment and other acts of hate.

Stephanson spoke at Council in November in response to recent concerns shared by community members. He reiterated that the City is “committed to preserving the values of inclusiveness and community safety.”

The City’s website includes information about reporting incidents and offers links to community organizations, among other resources: everettwa.gov/welcome.

The website also includes the Everett Police Department’s policy on enforcement of immigration laws, the Mayor’s statement and the full text of the Council resolution.