As 2016 comes to a close, I like to reflect on what we have accomplished and look forward to what’s ahead. I’m proud of the gains the city has made. Although there are too many to list, here are some highlights:
Our executive office and the City Council made progress on a number of priorities. We launched a new city website that is easier to navigate and includes an Open Budget/Checkbook feature that makes city financial information transparently available to the public we serve.
We launched Marysville Extended Shelter Housing, a transitional housing partnership with Everett Gospel Mission and the local faith community led by Allen Creek Community Church. We coordinated a Fire Service study and continue to explore the feasibility of a Regional Fire Authority. And we identified future capital project needs and began planning for public safety, transportation and economic development projects.
Public safety: Using targeted initiatives and proactive policing strategies, crime was reduced by more than 30 percent.
Public works: Completed widening and improvements of State Avenue between 116th Street NE and 136th Street NE; new access and egress to Highway 529; several street overlays, pedestrian, bike, signal and safety improvements. Sunnyside Well treatment facility work is under way, increasing our access to local water supply and keeping costs stable; 3rd Street Local Improvement District work is under way as part of the continued downtown revitalization efforts; Water &Surface Water comprehensive plans completed.
Community development: Lakewood comprehensive plan; increased housing permits; business expansion, particularly in the north end.
Parks, Culture &Recreation: Opera House renovation and expanded programming; completed Phase 1 of Ebey Waterfront Trail; Jennings Dinosaur Park upgrade.
Finance: Sound financial strategies have served the city well by funding core services while building reserves. The city refinanced debt to take advantage of lower interest rates, saving $2.15 million over the remaining 10-year term.
Last week the City Council approved a $298 million two-year budget that provides the financial framework for continuing to provide and improve on city services in 2017 and 2018.
The budget funds completion of the basic framework for the Ebey Waterfront Trail, an important project years in the making that will reconnect residents, visitors and neighborhoods with the long-neglected waterways that fueled industry and transportation in Marysville’s early days. Completing the trail is an important part of attracting visitors and revitalizing the historic downtown area. Other improvements there include building the 1st Street Bypass and beautifying 1st and 3rd streetscapes. We’ll also continue to expand programming and events for the newly refurbished Opera House.
The city continues to focus on public safety by adding officers to increase patrol presence in neighborhoods and increase community outreach and engagement; creating new police unit incorporating Code Enforcement, Community Services officer and Parks security; and continuing Regional Fire Authority discussions with Arlington and Fire District 12.
We’re also investing in economic development opportunities, diversifying our employment base and preparing for incoming growth by building street and utility infrastructure for the Smokey Point Industrial Center and in the Lakewood neighborhood.
It’s an exciting time for Marysville. On behalf of the City Council and city employees, here’s wishing you and your families a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Jon Nehring is the mayor of Marysville. He column runs each month.
