City of Snohomish Quarterly Magazine - Fall 2022

City Hall

City of Snohomish PO Box 1589

116 Union Avenue

Snohomish, WA 98291-1589

Phone: 360-568-3115

Office Hours

Tuesday/Wednesday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Monday/Thursday/Friday by appt. only

Please see the City’s website to report a concern or for additional information at www.SnohomishWA.gov.

Police

230 Maple Avenue

Snohomish, WA 98290

Phone: 360-568-0888

Emergency: 911 Non-Emergencies: 425-407-3999

Office Hours

Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m. Patrol deputies are on duty 24 hours a day and can be reached by calling 911.

Department Contacts

Linda Redmon, Mayor 360-282-3154 redmon@SnohomishWA.gov

Heather Thomas, City Administrator 360-282-3194 thomas@SnohomishWA.gov

Scott James, Finance Director 360-282-3197 james@SnohomishWA.gov

Glen Pickus, Planning Director 360-282-3173 pickus@SnohomishWA.gov

Rebekah Park, Human Resources Manager 360-282-3155 park@SnohomishWA.gov

Brandi Whitson, City Clerk 360-282-3181 whitson@SnohomishWA.gov

Nova Heaton, Public Works Director 360-282-3187 heaton@SnohomishWA.gov

Shari Ireton, Director of Community Engagement & Strategic Initiatives 360-282-3176 ireton@SnohomishWA.gov

Robert Palmer, Police Chief 360-568-0888 snohomishpd@SnohomishWA.gov

In This Issue

Snohomish Community Food Bank volunteers Paul Kaftanski (with box) and Dan Pugmire (on truck) are part of the City’s critical services and resources who serve those in need.

Welcome New Staff!

Paul Morse joined our team as a Maintenance Worker in our Public Works Department! Paul was previously with the City of Snohomish for 16 years and brings additional years of varied public sector experience as he returns. Paul works with the Streets Team in serving residents of Snohomish.

Ann Ray, who has served the City for more than 17 years in Public Works, accepted a new role as the City’s first Community Services Program Specialist. A long-time Snohomish resident, Ann’s deep connection to the community and experience is a huge asset as she oversees events and City-wide program activities, including management of the Carnegie Building. She supports our emergency preparedness and planning efforts and helping develop neighborhood projects and events to strengthen community relationships.

Shirah McDonald is the new Administrative Assistant through 2024. She has a bachelor’s degree in English Literature and a master’s in Applied Linguistics. She has over 11 years of professional experience with the San Ramon Valley Unified School District in California. Shirah is working with Human Resources and the City Clerk in research, digitization, and helping to develop programs and procedures that ensure transparency for the residents of Snohomish.

Brady Begin joined our team as the City’s new Economic Development and Outreach Coordinator. He is a Washington native and UW grad who just completed his Master’s degree in public administration from the University of Georgia. He has experience in economic development in rural and underserved communities through UGA and previously worked with non-profits. Brady was also a White House intern in 2016. His position is responsible for developing, recommending, and implementing policies, programs and procedures that ensure the economic health and vitality of the City.

24/7 Emergency Room Care

Urgent Care in Monroe

Primary Care in Monroe & Sultan

Anticoagulation Management Clinic

Chemical and Alcohol Dependency & Recovery Center

Outpatient Addiction Medicine Care

Diagnostic Imaging

Gastrointestinal Services

3-D Mammography & DXA

Midwifery Care

Nutrition Counseling

OB/GYN Care

Orthopedics & Sports Medicine

Pain Management

Physical & Occupational Therapy

Podiatry

Respiratory Care

Surgical Services – General, Orthopedic, Gastrointestinal & Gynecological

Vascular Care

Wound Healing & Hyperbaric Center

What You Don't See

BY LINDA REDMON, MAYOR

Snohomish has a rich events scene, primarily because many remarkable people put in hours and hours of work to create, plan, organize, and run these events that benefit our community. I want to extend gratitude and thanks to the organizers and volunteers who brought to life events such as the Snohomish Farmer's Market, the Snohomish Art Walk, Kla Ha Ya Days, the Easter Parade, and multiple car and motorcycle shows, foot races, and charm and wine walks. Many of the same people are working on upcoming Fall events, such as First Street Trick or Treat, the Zombie Walk, Chase the Grinch Out of Snohomish, and the Holiday Tree Lighting. Our year-round events are a very visible demonstration of community and create a festive environment for residents and visitors alike. They are a treasured part of our town’s identity, and are notable for being accessible to and inclusive of a broad range of people.

What you don’t see are the many other volunteer efforts that happen every week to provide very important resources for those in our community who are in need.

Twice a week, the Snohomish

Community Food Bank provides “service” for anyone in the community who stops by. Volunteers staff the services, but even more volunteers work the other days of the week sorting, packaging, and picking up donations, making deliveries to those who can’t make it in, and doing all of the various types of paperwork associated with the operation. There is another large group of volunteers who provide meal service through the Community Kitchen programs. These volunteers plan, procure, and prepare meals twice a week, providing a welcoming dining area, so that anyone can stop by and receive a hot meal and the comfort of

those members of the community who donate their time on our City’s boards and commissions in order to provide advice on behalf of their neighbors to your elected representatives. We are working on emphasizing a more active role for these volunteers, including Public Safety Commission efforts to support development of Neighborhood Watch groups throughout the city with the assistance of our Police Department. My hope is that these neighborhood-focused efforts will also grow to encompass emergency preparedness efforts, including Map Your Neighborhood and Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) programs.

I celebrate all of the

those in our

make for the

of others.

your time,

community. You can find a list of services made possible by some of these volunteer efforts in this issue, and we now have staff at the City keeping this information updated for the benefit of our community members.

I also want to recognize

I celebrate all of the efforts those in our community make for the sake of others. These efforts mean so much to those who receive the benefit of your time, effort, and caring. If you are reading this and are one of the dedicated volunteers who provide so much for our community, I thank you from the bottom of my heart. While your efforts are not always visible and known, you truly are what makes Snohomish such a special community for us all.

Linda

Staff Spotlight

If there’s one thing that you can count on when you work on parks and public spaces in the City is that the whims of Mother Nature and mischievous vandals will keep you busy all year ‘round.

“Sometimes it’s like playing ‘whacka-mole’,” said Parks Lead James Pullen. “Just when we fix one issue, we have to move on to another.”

Those “issues” aren’t just pruning trees and removing graffiti. The Parks Team manages upkeep on the City’s trails, streetscapes, traffic islands, gazebo, rain gardens, restrooms, Carnegie Building, the Senior Center, boat launch, and more.

“The reality is we are doing way more than just parks with just a few guys.”

The weather often dictates what jobs the team has to tackle, but so does the vandalism. When someone pries off a piece of playground equipment, it can leave hazards like exposed bolts that can injure kids.

“A good example of what we are dealing with is, you see all the weeds around these hedges?” asks Pullen, pointing at the evergreen shrubs along the Centennial Trail near the Snohomish Library. “The weeds are four or five feet tall and the hedges need to be trimmed. But, we aren’t getting to that because right now we are re-installing the signs along the Story Trail while we have a break in the weather.”

The previous signs along the trail were defaced and some pulled out of the ground. Parks crews recovered at least one from the Pilchuck River.

A significant number of people from outside the City come to the parks for many of the same reasons City residents love to call Snohomish home: parks with unique features (like river access at Pilchuck Park) or those within walking distance of the shops in historic downtown.

“While the City of Snohomish is a town of 10,000 people, we are a magnet for the surrounding communities. I’ve seen preschool vans from Stanwood and Lynnwood come to our parks. Although we are small, we are servicing a huge demographic beyond just the City,” said Pullen.

But the team occasionally gets a break in the action to plan for the future and work on capital projects with the community. They are currently working with pickle ball enthusiasts to improve the courts at Pilchuck Park and regional disc golfers to help redesign the Ultimate Frisbee Course at Ferguson Park. Next year, they will begin transforming Averill Field to improve amenities and accessibility, install a new playground, and more.

They want to ensure residents have safe options for kids of all ages, including parks for 2-5 years (like Morgantown) and those for 5-12 (like Averill Field), and abilities.

Parks staff re-installing the Story Trail near the library

Pullen and Public Works Operations Manager Tim Cross are working with the Department of Community Engagement to identify grant and funding opportunities for the future of our City’s parks.

“Ultimately, we have a long list of challenges and we are navigating through them. But the main thing is we have a solid group of guys that work together and are dedicated to their jobs and the City,” said Pullen.

Parks staff l to r: James Pullen (Lead), Stephen Ray, Chris Soren, and Curtis Galde. Not pictured Shaun Murphy, Jon Soth and Mike Seltz

Council Goals & City Budget: Planning for our Future

BY TOM MERRILL, COUNCIL CHAIR

Y

ikes! Time moves quickly—seems only a short while since we approved the bi-yearly 2021–2022 budget. But here we are again, preparing the 2023–2024 budget.

Council Goals help guide the budget process. We just finished those now for the next bi-annual budget and you are able to find upcoming agendas and the complete list in the meeting minutes at www. snohomishwa.gov/AgendaCenter. Once approved, you will find the final budget on the City website (www.snohomishwa. gov/Budget) and it will be highlighted in the 2023 Winter Issue of the Snohomish Quarterly.

In this article I want to present just a few, representative initiatives we will work on over the next 2-year cycle. All are elements supporting one or more of the Five Essential ServicesUtilities, Law Enforcement, Transportation, Parks, and Planning/Permitting.

Climate Resiliency

The City has an Emergency Management Plan to address many types of disasters. In the last few years, though, reports show extreme weather events becoming more prevalent. Effects of such events may not trigger the Emergency Management Plan but can have serious implications for vulnerable residents.

The worst of these have avoided Snohomish—so far. But we have experienced extreme heat and threat from forest fires. (The Bolt Creek Fire is burning just 30 miles from here as I write this). City staff in partnership with the Snohomish County Department of Emergency Management and the City’s Public Safety Commission, police department, fire district, and concerned citizens will (and are) working on measures such as succession planning in city government, business resiliency, Neighborhood Watch and neighborhood mapping, identifying resources in our city (the Senior Center and Food Bank, for example) and who among their neighbors may need those resources. Knowing and supporting your neighbors is a key ingredient in this plan and serves as a handy crime prevention opportunity as well.

Equipment Replacement

Following the Great Recession, the City began stretching out vehicle and

Sterling Gurney, CFP®, AAMS™, CRPC™

Financial Advisor

WA 98290

heavy equipment replacement schedules as a cost savings measure. Many items are now far past their recommended “shelf life”. Worn out and obsolete, much of the city fleet has uncertain reliability, high maintenance costs, and difficulty sourcing parts, in many instances

posing a safety hazard to the work crews. Action is needed.

Therefore, we will be working to create a capital replacement budget and developing a replacement schedule. Not something usually thought about but quite important to maintain safe and timely service to our residents.

Housing

Housing in Snohomish is both expensive and in short supply. Too many of our residents are stretched to make house or rent payments - if they can find a house or rental at all. It affects our residents at most income levels. Businesses are affected because employees have a difficult time living here, contributing to an ongoing staffing shortage. Panthers of all ages - those starting out, those starting families, those retiring - are having a hard time finding and/or maintaining housing.

There is not one solution, but many avenues to address the problem. The City Council is exploring many of them and will continue to do so. These include forming public/private partnerships for low-income housing, encouraging increases in housing stock for middle-incomes, and developing land use plans for the northern areas of town.

It’s a hard truth that Snohomish will continue to grow. But we will strive to ensure that doing so is managed by Snohomishites to benefit Snohomish and maintain the unique character we all love.

If you have questions about any of the above or want to know more, please feel free to call or email. Be glad to chat with you.

Tom Merrill, Council President

City Council

It Takes a Village: The Snohomish Community Food Bank

They don’t call it the Snohomish Community Food Bank for nothing. Tucked between the Snohomish Armory, Ferguson Park, and the fire station, the food bank brings community members and organizations together to fight food insecurity. According to Executive Director Elizabeth Durand, the food bank can serve a full week’s worth of groceries to every client (including families) thanks to the generosity of donors and volunteers – but it’s not just about hunger. Serving clients addresses their mental and emotional health as well.

“In some cases,” Durand adds, “it can prevent desperation in how to get food.”

The food bank serves clients from a variety of backgrounds and a wide array of needs. Someone might be unemployed, or they might be on a fixed income that doesn’t cover all their expenses. Maybe a family does earn enough, but are struggling with extenuating circumstances such as medical expenses or providing support for family members. On a recent tour of the food bank, Durand points out how extensive the inventory is – including nutritional shakes for seniors, snack bags for families with young children, and products made with dietary restrictions in mind.

Specific programs tend to the needs of vulnerable populations. The Snohomish Community Food Bank’s Food-2-Go Program provides weekend groceries to homeless high school students based off what they like to eat and what they have access to in terms of appliances or cookware. Elderly and disabled people are supported by the Home Delivery Program, which includes calls to clients to perform wellness checks and take grocery orders –which are then delivered to their doorsteps.

One program with a major impact is the Kids’ Café, a collaboration between the food bank, the Boys and Girls Club, and the Snohomish School District since 2010. The annual summer program invites kids age 18 and younger to breakfast and lunch across the school district, with no sign-up required. For the 2022 program, volunteers served 4,431 breakfasts and 10,572 lunches – a total of 15,003 meals. Partnerships are a major focus

Above & below left: Snohomish Community Food Bank volunteers

of the food bank’s work. In addition to the Boys and Girls Club and the school district, the food bank also works with the Lions Club, local churches, and the business community. Albertsons, Haggen, Safeway, and Franz Bakery all donate regularly. Not to mention the Snohomish Farmers Market!

“This past season,” Durand noted, “produce vendors gave over 3,500 pounds of fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs to share with our families. What a generous gift!”

Donating and volunteering are great ways for community members to make a difference. During the holiday season, the Snohomish Community Food Bank takes pledges for special Thanksgiving and Christmas meals. The food bank serves Thanksgiving dinner to about 200 families, and you can pledge a specific holiday item by calling (360) 568-7993 or sending an email to director@snohomishfoodbank.org. During the rest of the year, Durand recommends checking Facebook (@SnohomishFoodBank) or calling to find out what is needed most. Still not sure what to donate or don’t have the time? Monetary donations are always accepted.

“With inflation and supply chain problems, our monthly budget has gone from $7,500 a month to $12,000 a month.”

As for volunteering, you’ll be in good company – over 140 people volunteer at the food bank. Volunteers work in a variety of positions, “and it is all done with a strong work ethic and laughter.” To learn more and apply, visit www. snohomishfoodbank.org. Durand says her volunteers are amazing, and a trip to the food bank makes that apparent. In fact, one community member recently celebrated her 15th anniversary of volunteering.

“I see all the good in people,” Durand stresses. “I see so many things done for people.”

community resources

Do you or someone in your family need help? We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of services in the community and surrounding areas, including housing, childcare, clothing, and more.

FOOD INSECURITY

Snohomish Food Bank

The Snohomish Community Food Bank serves weekly groceries as well as provides social services to residents living within the Snohomish School District boundaries.

• (360) 568-7993

• director@snohomishfoodbank.org

• snohomishfoodbank.org

CrossView Church Food Bank

CrossView Food Bank is open to anyone who needs supplemental groceries or is experiencing food insecurity. All are welcome - there are no residency or income requirements.

• 360-568-5886 or office@mycrossview.com

• Hours: Monday 6:30pm - 7:30pm, Wednesday 10:30am - 11:30am

• www.mycrossview.com/food-bank

Meals on Wheels

Meals on Wheels offers nutritious meals for homebound older adults and people with disabilities. The delicious frozen meals are easy to heat and are delivered directly to your home each week by caring and compassionate staff and volunteers. Pet food is available upon request.

• 425-347-1229 or nutrition@homage.org

• homage.org/nutrition/meals-on-wheels

UTILITY ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

LIHEAP – Low-Income Household Energy Assistance Program helps with your heating bills and LIHWAP – Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program helps with your water/sewer bills

Help with utility bills is available through this program, whether residents heat with electricity, natural gas, propane, oil or wood.

Certain eligibility requirements apply.

• 425-388-3880

• snohomishcountywa.gov/552/EnergyAssistance

HOUSEHOLD GRANTS

Snohomish Household Support Grants

Grants to qualifying residents to help meet needs associated with the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Up to $2,500 grants are available to help defray expenses such as rent, childcare, utilities, medical bills, car repair bills, or other household expenses per calendar year.

• www.snohomishwa.gov/householdgrants

St. Vincent De Paul

This is a one-time grant for families or individuals whose income is less than 200% of the federal poverty guidelines, or who have experienced sudden income loss due to the COVID-19 pandemic, are eligible to apply.

• 425-355-3504 or PUDprojectpride@ hotmail.com

• svdpnsc.com/help/

Puget Sound Energy

If you’re struggling to pay your energy bills, our bill assistance programs and a home weatherization program can help. It’s easy to learn if you’re eligible for bill assistance or free home weatherization upgrades.

• (888) 225-5773

• www.pse.com/account-and-billing/ assistance-programs

HOUSING INSECURITY

Everett Gospel Mission

Our long-term housing facilities provide a safe, affordable place for individuals to transition into a life of sustainability with the support they need to continue moving toward independence.

• Men’s Shelter (425) 740-2550 or feedhopehere@egmission.org

• Women’s Shelter (425) 740-2501

• egmission.org/get-help/

Matthew House

Founded in 1980, we have helped thousands of women, children and families of the incarcerated. With the generous help of donors and private party sponsors we have been providing food, shelter, clothing, love, support and hope to this forgotten population of children & Families

• (360) 794-8720

• matthewhousemonroe.org

Mercy Housing

Home is where vibrant, stable families and communities begin. Mercy Housing is a leading affordable housing organization, working to eliminate homelessness and housing insecurity for low-income families, seniors, individuals, and people with disabilities. Our goal? To create healthy, sustainable communities where every person has a place to call home.

• (206) 838-5700

• www.mercyhousing.org/northwest/

Interfaith Family Shelter

Uniting in service to families, with children, facing homelessness. We provide emergency shelter and rehousing case management to help families overcome homelessness and achieve permanent housing.

One of only two shelters in Snohomish that accepts single dads and families with teenage sons.

• (425) 303-9774 or admin@interfaithwa.org

• interfaithwa.org

BEHAVIOR HEALTH RESOURCES

Children’s Hospital Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine Unit

Children with complex mental health issues may need to stay in the hospital at times. When this happens, we have a Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine Unit (PBMU) with 41 beds where we treat children from ages 3 to 18. We also see people age 19 to 21 who are developmentally delayed and in crisis.

• 206-987-2000

• www.seattlechildrens.org/clinics/ psychiatry-behavioral-medicine-unit/

Compass Health Snohomish County

Compass Health provides comprehensive services to treat behavioral health conditions, and we are here to support anyone who needs our care. We offer a wide-range of behavioral health services for clients of all ages in Snohomish, Skagit, Island, San Juan, and Whatcom counties.

• 800-457-9303

• www.compasshealth.org/

North Sound Behavioral Health Administrative Services Organization

The State of Washington contracts with the North Sound Behavioral Health Administrative Services Organization to provide Behavioral Health Crisis Services and other state-funded non-Medicaid behavioral health services in the 5 county North Sound Region. We work in cooperation with North Sound Tribal Behavioral Health Agencies to provide Crisis Services to American Indians and Alaskan Natives.

• 800.684.3555 or contact@nsbhaso.org

• nsbhaso.org

LEGAL ASSISTANCE

Snohomish County Legal Services

Snohomish is Washington’s third-most populous and fastest-growing county with more than 770,000 residents, at least 100,000 of whom have household incomes below 125% of the Federal Poverty level. Too many of our neighbors are unable to address life-changing legal issues. Lack of meaningful access to legal services can exacerbate unemployment, homelessness, and family disintegration, placing significant additional burdens on social services and the community… and continuing the cycles of poverty.

• 425.258.9283 or information@snocolegal.org

• snocolegal.org/why-civil-legal-aid/

Northwest Justice Project

NJP provides legal assistance to eligible low-income families and individuals needing help with civil (non-criminal) legal problems in Washington State. Washington LawHelp is a library of free “know your rights” articles, videos, court forms and do-it-yourself packets covering many common legal issues such as family law, eviction/housing, public benefits and money/debt problems.

• 1-855-657-8387

• nwjustice.org/get-legal-help

Snohomish County Family Law Facilitator Program:

The Courthouse Facilitator program at Snohomish County Superior Court Clerk’s Office provides assistance to Family Law and Guardianship clients who are not represented by attorneys. This program operates in the Snohomish County Courthouse.

• 425-388-3795

• snohomishcountywa.gov/5540/74119/Courthouse-Facilitator

INTERNET ACCESS

Xfinity/Comcast

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a federal government program designed to help income-constrained households connect to the internet, as well as Xfinity Mobile service. We’re making it simple for both new and existing customers to apply.

• (800) 934-6489?

• www.xfinity.com/support/articles/ emergency-broadband-benefit-enroll

Ziply Fiber

Customers who qualify for the Lifeline program also qualify for Affordable Connectivity Program enrollment. If you are not a Lifeline customer, you may still qualify for the Affordable Connectivity Program. Eligible households will get a discount of up to $30 per month towards eligible broadband plans, and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands.

• 1.866.MYZIPLY (1-866-699-4759)

• ziplyfiber.com/resources/discountprogram-types/low-income-assistanceprograms

Astound Broadband

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is a federal government benefit program operated by the Federal Communications Commission that reduces one eligible household’s broadband internet access service bill by up to $30 per month. We offer a variety of internet packages with no contracts required and no early termination fees. Eligible customers may apply the ACP benefit to one of our current internet packages in their area, opt-out of the program or transfer the ACP benefit to another provider.

• 1.800.427.8686

• www.astound.com

PARENTING, FAMILY, ELDER OPTIONS

Cocoon House

Cocoon Project SAFE is designed to help parents and guardians to delve beyond their child’s destructive behavior patterns to expose the nature of what may be causing the behavior. The therapist will even follow up with you to review the action plan created in the initial phone consultation and discuss ways to confront barriers that may come up.

• 425-317-9898

• Meetings are every 2nd and 4th Tuesday, from 6:30-8:00 PM

• 2929 Pine Avenue Everett, WA

Sunrise Services of Snohomish County

We offer a variety of quality services that are focused on real individuals. These services share a common goal – to improve or uphold our individual quality of life. We employ a holistic, responsive and innovative approach to providing community and in-home supports. We want our individual to progress toward wellness and maintain successful independent living.

• (425) 212-4200

• sunriseservicesinc.com/

Homage Senior Services

of Snohomish County

Washington State’s Community Living Connections is part of a national collaborative effort of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the Veterans Administration and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services designed to help individuals of all ages, disabilities and income levels, their caregivers, legal representatives and families get the right home and community-based supports and services at the right time, in the right place.

• 425.513.1900

• homage.org/aging-and-disabilityresource-network

CHILD CARE ASSISTANCE

Boys and Girls Club of Snohomish County (Snohomish)

We keep our kids safe, provide them with resources and space to accomplish their homework, let them play, and instill values focused on leadership, character and friendship. Club kids enjoy nutritious, hot meals and healthy snacks. Our programs are delivered by trained, caring professionals and volunteers in a safe environment that encourages kids to explore their interests, gain confidence, and make new friends.

• (360) 568-7760

• snohomish@bgcsc.org

• bgcsc.org/clubs/snohomish-club/

Early Childhood Educations and Assistance Program (ECEAP)

ECEAP is designed to provide a comprehensive early childhood program for preschool children and their families. If your child resides within the Snohomish School District boundaries or is highly mobile such as migrant or homeless, they may be eligible for the ECEAP program.

• 360-563-4641

• britta.grass@sno.wednet.edu

• www.sno.wednet.edu/Page/2686

Child Care Aware of Washington

We work alongside families, child care providers, caregivers, and communities to meet the diverse and specialized learning needs of every child in our state. We use data and story to influence policy makers, system leaders and our partners to ensure every child in Washington has equitable access to quality learning experiences.

• 1-800-446-1114

• familycenter@childcare.org

• childcareawarewa.org

COLD WEATHER OPTIONS

Angel Resource Connection

From Seattle to Everett, ARC provides sleeping bags and warm clothes to the unsheltered.

• 425-496-7711

• penelope@angelresourceconnection.org

• www.angelresourceconnection.org

Snohomish County

Cold Weather Shelters

Multiple locations in Snohomish County provide overnight shelter during dangerously cold weather. The Snohomish Cold Weather Shelter, when activated, is located at 210 Avenue B. Hours of operation, criteria for opening, and length of season vary by location. Youths between the ages of 12-17 years of age who need shelter may call 425877-5171.

• (425) 388-7200

• Tyler.Verda@snoco.org

• snohomish-county-public-safety-hubsnoco-gis.hub.arcgis.com/pages/coldweather-shelters

CRISIS CENTERS

Domestic Violence Services of Snohomish County

If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, Domestic Violence Services of Snohomish County can help you. We provide free and confidential services: emergency shelter, legal advocacy, support groups and domestic violence education. We are the only program in Snohomish County providing emergency shelter and comprehensive, confidential services to all victims of domestic abuse.

• 425-25-ABUSE (425-252-2873)

• dvs-snoco.org/

Providence Sexual Assault Crisis Center

Our team of advocates, forensic nurses, nurse practitioners, therapists, and social workers offer an array of services to those impacted by sexual, physical, and/or relationship violence. We believe everyone in our community deserves to feel safe, to be treated with care and respect, and to feel empowered to reach out for support. Our services are designed to center and value your unique needs as we work alongside you to identify meaningful next steps.

• 425-252-4800

• www.providence.org/locations/wa/intervention-center-for-assault-and-abuse-everett

National Suicide Prevention Hotline

The Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones. 988 is now active across the United States. This new, shorter phone number will make it easier for people to remember and access mental health crisis services.

• 1-800-273-TALK (8255)

• 988lifeline.org/

WRAP-AROUND SERVICES

Carnegie Resource Center

Carnegie Resource Center is a one-stop location that serves as a gateway to a multitude of resources and training opportunities related to mental health counseling and substance use disorder treatment, employment services, housing enrollment, veteran programs, health insurance navigation and public benefit enrollments. All services at the center are coordinated by Pioneer Human Services.

• 206-768-1990

• communications@p-h-s.com

• pioneerhumanservices.org/

Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS)

Nearly one out of every four Washington citizens turns to the Department of Social and Health Services’ Economic Services Administration for assistance with cash, food, child support, child care, and disability determination, and supports for transition to employment and other services.

• 877-501-2233

• www.dshs.wa.gov/dshs

Catholic Community Services

Our mission is to serve men, women and children who come to us for assistance, with compassion and understanding while supporting and promoting self-sufficiency. We believe every child should grow up in a safe, loving, nurturing environment, in joining with others to change systems which oppress, discriminate or otherwise cause human suffering, and to work towards affirming and supporting a healthy family life.

• (425) 257-2111

• www.org/get-help/snohomish-island-counties

Salvation Army

We assess the needs of each community in which we serve. We work to understand the obstacles, hardships, and challenges native to the area’s particular population. Next, we build local programs designed to offer immediate relief, short-term care, and longterm growth in the areas that will best benefit the community.

• 425-259-8129

• Caleb.Fankhauser@usw.salvationarmy.org

• everett.salvationarmy.org

Volunteers of America (VOA)

Volunteers of America Western Washington is the largest human service agency in Snohomish County and we serve six counties in Western Washington. Specifically, we help families in crisis, cultivate promise in children, and empower independence for seniors and adults with disabilities. Whether we are delivering food to a homebound senior, providing rent and mortgage assistance, or providing a child with the tools needed to succeed in school, we are there, answering the calls for help from our community’s most vulnerable neighbors.

• (425) 259-3191

• info@voaww.org

• www.voa.org/offices/volunteers-ofamerica-western-washington

CLOTHING BANK

Clothes for Kids

Clothes For Kids provides free school clothing to lower-income students. Any child who attends school in Snohomish County or the Northshore School District (Head Start/ ECEAP through 12th grade) and requests help qualifies for Clothes For Kids. Clothing is distributed from early August through the end of May.

• 425-741-6500

• office@clothesforkids.org

• clothesforkids.org

SJH Clothing Bank

SJH Clothing Bank supports hundreds of men, women and children throughout Snohomish County, free of charge. We are currently the only organization of its kind in our community and we strive to create a welcoming environment, along with an enjoyable shopping experience. We are continuously engaging in community outreach activities to ensure that those in need are aware of and have access to our services.

• (360) 651-8246

• contact@stjosephshouse.org

• www.stjosephshouse.org/

YWCA

Offering free, business-appropriate attire to women experiencing homelessness in need of clothing for interviews or new jobs. Clients should call in advance to schedule an appointment. No income verification or voucher needed. Up to 4 visits allowed per year.

• 425.258.2766

• www.ywcaworks.org/locations/everettregional-center

Operation School Bell

Operation School Bell levels the playing field for in-need school kids by providing them with brand new school clothes, just like everybody else. Teen Retail Programqualified high school students are provided with vouchers to shop for appropriate school attire. Students may choose clothing and shoes.

• 425-252-3011

• contact@assistanceleagueofeverett.org

• www.assistanceleague.org/everett/ operation-school-bell

City Re-allocates ARPA Funds for Community Recovery and Support

What is ARPA?

The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) is a $1.9 trillion stimulus bill passed by US Congress and signed into law by President Biden in spring of 2021. The bill was and was designed to assist the country’s recovery from economic and health impacts caused by the COVID-19 Pandemic. $350 billion in funding was given to states and local governments. Much of this funding is now available to be spent on key projects in cities and towns across America, including the City of Snohomish.

How much was distributed to the City?

The City of Snohomish received $2.8 million, providing an unprecedented opportunity; this a chance for the City to offer critical assistance to members of our community. These funds allow the City to invest in key priorities such as infrastructure, housing, health, transportation, parks, and more. ARPA funds are also allocated to reimburse certain revenue losses, provide premium pay for essential workers, and invest in water, sewer, and broadband infrastructure. These funds have the ability to make a tremendous impact on addressing the needs, services and amenities that make a city a healthy, welcoming place to live.

How is the City using the funds?

The Snohomish City Council and City staff have identified six areas to distribute ARPA funds to best address the needs of our community:

Household Support: Grants are available to households earning less than 60% of the Snohomish average yearly median income (in 2022 for a 1 person household, 60% AMI is $54,360) to be used for rent/mortgage expenses, utility bills, food, medical bills, childcare, internet access, and other household expenses. Eligible individuals or families may receive up to $2,500 for expenses incurred per calendar year.

Business and Non-Profit Support: This work may include economic development, coaching and technical support for nonprofits and the overall business community; financial support to businesses and nonprofits experiencing impacts due to the COVID19 pandemic; and improving resiliency and continuity of operations within the Snohomish business and nonprofit community.

Public Safety Program Support: This work includes police support, public safety infrastructure and equipment needs, and expenses necessary to complete the Environmental Protection Agency’s Lead Service Line Inventory Survey and will require public outreach with water utility customers to assess lead service lines in the City’s water distribution system.

Community Resource Navigation and Support: This program is a collaboration between the City of Snohomish and Snohomish School District as required by the Behavioral Health Partnership Program with Snohomish County. Funds will be set aside for pass-through grants for nonprofit organizations and agencies providing applicable services to City residents.

City Expenditures Support: This focus area includes investments in cybersecurity equipment and software, hybrid meeting equipment and software, infrastructure backup equipment, data backup equipment and software, laptops and related supplies, and emergency preparedness and continuity of operation needs.

City Infrastructure Support: City capital projects, such as the First Street and Historic Downtown Utility and Street Master Plan (water, sewer, sidewalks, trees, garbage, outdoor seating, and parking), Water and Sewer Line Replacement Capital Projects, and Broadband Access

The City of Snohomish has until December 31, 2024, to finalize funding decisions and until December 31, 2026 to spend the funds. Any funds not assigned by the end of 2024, as well as any funds not spent by the end of 2026, will be returned to the Department of the Treasury.

Federal Funds Available to Help with Household Bills

The City of Snohomish is offering ARPA Household Support Grants to qualifying residents to help meet needs associated with the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Up to $2,500 grants are available to help defray expenses such as rent, childcare, utilities, medical bills, car repair bills, or other household expenses per calendar year. Residents must meet the following two criteria to be eligible:

1. Must live within the Snohomish city limits (go to the City’s property map to see if you are a resident) and

2. Earn no more than 60% of the Snohomish median income (in 2022 for a one-person household, 60% AMI is $54,360)

Request an application at www.snohomishwa.gov/HouseholdGrants

What is a Neighborhood Watch— and Why Should I Get Involved?

BY PUBLIC SAFETY COMMISSIONERS STEPHANIE STROM (POSITION 2) & JILL CLARK FULMER (POSITION

Neighborhood Watch is about more than crime. Although crime prevention is arguably the most common benefit, Neighborhood Watch is about living in neighborhoods where we look out for each other.

We are lucky to have a low crime rate in Snohomish, and we’d all like to keep it safe and friendly. When pockets of criminal activity threaten our sense of safety, a Neighborhood Watch empowers residents to compare notes and feel comfortable engaging with local law enforcement to address collective concerns.

Today, establishing more independent Neighborhood Watches is important to both City Council and the Snohomish Police Department, because they make a very real difference in fostering community.

And it works: the Morgantown neighborhood of Snohomish generated 114 calls to 911 dispatchers over a 9-month span. Six years after launching their Neighborhood Watch, they saw a 96 percent decrease in these calls.

An established Neighborhood Watch creates caring neighborhoods that function well in both large and small emergencies.

Neighborhood Watch isn’t just about preventing crime. We wave to our neighbors all the time, but may never know how to reach them in an emergency. By forming an official Watch,

you’ve declared your willingness to manage a centralized contact list and look out for each other. It’s the first step in building a hyper-local community you can rely on.

Consider the recent wildfire in our neighboring community of Index. If we have a similarly serious situation, those in a Neighborhood Watch can help determine who may need help — or be able to help.

What’s the commitment?

There are two easy steps:

1. Sign up: Simply meeting your neighbors at an informal kickoff event helps you feel comfortable reaching out to them when you think they might need help.

2. Stay engaged with occasional communication: This will look different for each Watch group, depending on what it decides. It might include:

Engaging in designated communication channels, such as email or private Facebook groups.

If you’re not a regular technology user, don’t let this dissuade you — you can ask your block captain to keep you informed.

Your level of engagement is up to you, as long as you’re reachable.

Get-togethers: informal meetings, police-led safety seminars, BBQs — whatever works for your individual group!

How Will I Know What To Do?

The Public Safety Commission has created a launch kit to help you consider your own neighborhood’s needs for your unique Watch. This kit contains invitation templates and training materials, including this decision tree:

• If something seems out of the ordinary and you think your fellow Watch member might want to know, call your neighbor directly.

• If you see suspicious activity, such as someone looking in windows or walking around a house, call the Snohomish PD non-emergency line (425-407-3999) and describe the situation.

• If you witness an active crime or think someone is in danger, call 911 immediately.

• In doubt about what to do? Call the SPD non-emergency line and ask to speak to a deputy.

As you get started, you can always rely on the educational support of Snohomish Police Department Administrative Sergeant Chris Veentjer, who can join your meetings and share resources.

How Do I Get Started?

To learn more, go to: snohomishwa. gov/Neighborhoods.

Holiday Open House

November 11–12, 2022 Historic Downtown www.historicdowntownsnohomish.org

Learn & Launch Your Own Neighborhood Watch Harvested Holiday Market

Valley View Middle School

Miracle on First Street Window

November 26–December 23, 2022 www.historicdowntownsnohomish.org

Annual Tree Lighting

November 26, 2022

Snohomish Carnegie www.historicdowntownsnohomish.org

Santa’s Arrival

November 26, 2022 Historic Downtown www.historicdowntownsnohomish.org

Photos with Santa Saturdays and Sundays, December 3–18, 2022 Historic Downtown www.historicdowntownsnohomish.org

Chase the Grinch Outta’ Snohomish Fun Run

December 4, 2022 Averill Field & Centennial Trail www.databarevents.com/ chasethegrinch

2022 Fall & Winter Events

Winterfest 2022:

Miracle on First Street

December 9-11, 2022

Historic Downtown www.historicdowntownsnohomish.org

Sippin’ n’ Shoppin’—

Holiday Wine Walk

December 10, 2022 Historic Downtown www.historicdowntownsnohomish.org

Winter Solstice Walk

December 21, 2022 Historic Downtown www.historicdowntownsnohomish.org

Snohomish Groundfrog Day

January 28, 2023 Avenue A/Riverfront Gazebo www.snohomishchamber.org

Sweethearts’ Stroll

February 11, 2023

Feather Ballroom and Snohomish Carnegie www.mysnohomishwedding.com

Visit our cooperative gallery featuring the works of community-minded local artists. Explore a diverse array of paintings, photography, drawings, mixed media artworks, jewelry, greeting cards, and unique handcrafted gifts.

Wednesday-Sunday: Noon - 5 pm Monday and Tuesday: Closed 1024 First Street, Suite #104, Snohomish

artsofsnohomish.com