EVERETT — A three-way primary has an incumbent and two challengers running for one of the two at-large seats on City Council.
The other at-large seat has four candidates vying for an open position being vacated by Brenda Stonecipher.
For this seat, incumbent Judy Tuohy is running for another term after being elected to the council in 2014, knocking out an appointed incumbent. Tuohy is the long-time executive director of the Schack Art Center downtown.
Bryce Nickel and Judith Martinez filed.
Martinez didn’t respond to the Tribune by press time and so is excluded.
Nickel is a disabilities advocate and lists being a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion consultant.
Nickel has previously run for the Skagit PUD board of commissioners and a state Representative’s seat.
The three way primary will narrow to two candidates to go on to the general.
The Tribune asked:
1) What do you hope to accomplish by running for council for the next four years?
Tuohy: My top priorities are:
• Affordable housing for all, finding solutions for our unsheltered population and addressing the root causes of homelessness. A comprehensive approach that puts people in homes and helps them stay long term.
• Workforce development for living wage jobs. We must be attractive to businesses to expand and locate here so our residents have meaningful economic choices.
• A safe community. Everyone has the right to be safe in their homes and neighborhoods. I will continue to collaborate with Police and Fire to ensure safety for our businesses, schools, parks and neighborhoods. I will step-up regional efforts to tackle the fentanyl crisis and help those with substance abuse.
Nickel: My primary objective is to create a lasting and meaningful impact on our community. I am committed to addressing urgent challenges, including homelessness and the need for affordable housing, while advocating for the rights and well-being of marginalized communities. By placing equity, social justice, and sustainability at the forefront of my agenda, I aspire to foster positive change and enhance the overall quality of life for every resident. Through collaborative efforts, innovative solutions, and a strong commitment to serving the needs of our diverse population, I am dedicated to building a more inclusive, thriving, and equitable city for all.
2) What’s your vision of Everett prospering?
Tuohy: I envision an inclusive and diverse Everett with a roof over every head; a public transportation network that takes people where they want to go and makes owning a vehicle optional; safe neighborhoods and streets so our residents live without fear; and parks, arts and recreational amenities to bring our residents together and into nature to make the highest quality of life for all who live here. That also includes quality healthcare, and educational and recreational opportunities for everyone in 25 years we can substantially reduce greenhouse gases and reverse the negative impacts of climate change.
Nickel: I envision a city where housing first programs are prioritized, ensuring that every resident has access to safe and affordable homes. By creating affordable and low-income housing projects owned by the city, we can provide stable housing options that meet the diverse needs of our community. This vision of prosperity also includes revitalizing neighborhoods, promoting economic growth and job opportunities, investing in sustainable infrastructure, and fostering a vibrant cultural and arts scene. Through these efforts, we can create an inclusive and thriving Everett where all residents can flourish and enjoy a high quality of life.
3) Where should Everett focus its budget for quality of life needs?
Tuohy: The most important quality of life requirement is a home for all in a safe environment. We must also provide amenities that create a City where people want to live. Important budgeting decisions must be made to try to balance these interests:
• Police and fire represent 70% of our total operating budget and they must remain a top priority.
• Housing affordability can be accomplished through rezoning, partnerships with developers and community groups, incentives, and support for low-income housing options.
• We have designated over $10 million from federal ARPA funds to help the unsheltered with housing, treatment and support services.
• We need sustainable, reliable funding for our parks, trails and beaches so they are safe and accessible to all families.
Nickel: To enhance the quality of life in Everett, our budget should be strategically focused on addressing critical needs. One area of priority is housing, where we can allocate resources to develop affordable housing units and implement housing first programs. By redirecting funds from non-essential programs, we can ensure that every resident has access to safe and affordable housing options. Additionally, investing in the creation of park district-style projects throughout the city will enhance community engagement, providing recreational spaces and retail opportunities. By aligning our budget with the needs of our residents, we can significantly improve the overall quality of life.
4) What needs to change in Everett?
Tuohy: Everett has the second lowest median income in our county, keeping many of our families below a living wage. Two things that could change family’s futures and their financial trajectory are:
• Homeownership, which brings many benefits through equity, stability, tax benefits, retirement assistance and fosters a sense of community.
• Living wage jobs and job training for local jobs that will provide stability, health insurance and a higher quality of life.
Both issues are complex, requiring a multi-solution approach. If we can make progress in expanding opportunities for home ownership and availability of good jobs, Everett will be a stronger community.
Nickel: In order to foster positive change in Everett, we must prioritize key areas. First, it is crucial to end the criminalization of homelessness and instead focus on implementing housing first approaches that provide stable housing and support services. Secondly, we need to invest in improving the cleanliness and accessibility of our streets and public spaces, ensuring they are safe and welcoming for all residents. Lastly, we must actively engage with community organizations and stakeholders to develop innovative solutions for affordable housing, creating more opportunities for low-income individuals and families. By making these changes, we can build an inclusive Everett.
