Everett Councilmember Paula Rhyne Announces Re-Election Campaign

Everett Councilmember Paula Rhyne announced her campaign for re-election to continue representing District 2.

Rhyne enters the race with broad community support including endorsements from Senators John Lovick and Marko Liias, Sheriff Susanna Johnson, County Councilmembers Megan Dunn and Strom Peterson, State Representatives Berg and Fosse, over a dozen state and local leaders, and many more.

Here’s her announcement:

“Four years ago, I was elected to represent you on the Everett City Council to ensure that Everett is safe, affordable, and vibrant for all residents,” said Rhyne. “With your support, I have implemented key initiatives in every District 2 neighborhood, been a consistent voice for fiscal responsibility and economic development, and prioritized accessibility and transparency on the Council. I am excited to continue working for our neighbors and communities so we can keep getting results, together.”

As the mom of two young children and the wife of a veteran, community safety is a top priority of Rhyne’s. As a Councilmember and liaison for the Mayor’s Drug Taskforce, Rhyne has collaborated with law enforcement, supported the implementation of the Flock Safety Camera System, supported federal funding for Alternative Response Teams for when a police officer isn’t needed for a mental health crisis, and also supported the rollout of the Emergency Mobile Opioid Treatment Everett (EMOTE) program which helps people who are struggling with opioid addiction.

Rhyne’s leadership has earned her the endorsement of Snohomish County Sheriff Susanna Johnson who said,

“Paula has been an important partner on the City Council to ensure investments in all aspects of public safety. Paula recognizes the holistic approach to public safety and has a sound understanding that it’s not just about the enforcement of the law and support for law enforcement, but also addressing the root causes of crime, supporting mental health initiatives, and investing in youth programs which can make a difference. We can count on her to continue to work with public safety leaders to get results.”

Rhyne also recognizes that good jobs and affordable housing are critical to the vitality of a city. Her commitment to protecting workers is exemplified by her successful passage of the Wage Theft Ordinance, which safeguards workers from exploitation and ensures that all contractors working with the city adhere to ethical labor standards.

During her time working for the Affordable Housing Program at the Federal Home Loan Bank of Seattle, Rhyne also brings valuable housing expertise to the Council where she has worked to improve access to affordable housing options at every level. Serving on the National League of Cities, she has helped inform federal policies that address housing and homelessness across the nation. Rhyne’s local leadership on supporting workforce development and addressing our regional affordability crisis has secured the endorsement of Snohomish, Bothell and Kenmore Mayors, as well as Councilembers representing Everett, Edmonds, Mill Creek and Bothell.

“Having worked closely with Paula on city council, I can personally attest to her unwavering commitment to improving our city for all Everett residents,” said State Representative Mary Fosse who also serves on the Everett City Council.

“Paula consistently goes above and beyond to ensure constituents are heard, valued, and supported. Additionally, her thoughtful approach to prudent budget development, housing affordability, and support for working families makes her the clear choice for re-election. I’m proud to stand behind Paula in this campaign, and I am confident that she will continue to make a lasting, positive impact on our city.”

Representing Downtown Everett, Rhyne has been a tireless advocate for downtown revitalization and historic preservation. During her first term, she secured funding for the Downtown Everett Association to support their storefront enhancement grants program and help downtown business owners recover from the economic impacts of COVID.

As Chair of the Lodging Tax Advisory Committee and Council Liaison to the Cultural Arts Commission, Rhyne has also worked to ensure that our downtown revitalization includes a thriving arts community and that we continue to reduce vacancies downtown, address parking issues, and support the economic vitality of our county’s urban center.

State Senator Marko Liias, who has also endorsed Rhyne said,

“Paula is a diligent public servant and public school mom who shares our commitment to hard-work, opportunity, and protecting what makes our communities great. Her unwavering commitment to the Everett community and dedication to serving her constituents is truly commendable. I have seen firsthand her tireless work to improve our neighborhoods and ensure that all voices are heard. She is a true public servant and Everett is lucky to have her on the city council.”

Rhyne is a two-time graduate of the University of Washington with a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and a Master’s Degree from the Evans School of Public Policy and Governance. After interning for then-King County Councilmember Bob Ferguson, she went on to serve as the Director of Constituent Relations for County Councilmember Rod Dembowski where she prioritized excellent customer service and accessibility. First elected to the Everett City Council four years ago, Rhyne also works as the Legislative Aide for Snohomish County Councilmember Megan Dunn.

Rhyne, who lives in the Port Gardner neighborhood with her family, two young children in Everett Public Schools, and a rescue dog, said “It is my honor to work everyday for everyone who is lucky enough to call Everett their home. With your continued support, I will continue fighting for a better tomorrow for all of us.”

For a complete endorsement list or to learn more, visit www.paula4everett.com