Everett council faces scrutiny over 25 Garvey Street land deal and classroom shortages

The Everett City Council convened on January 13, 2025, to address several pressing community issues, including educational infrastructure, property management, and local economic development. The meeting featured public comments that highlighted concerns regarding the city's handling of various projects and the implications for residents.

One of the primary topics discussed was the shortage of classrooms in the city. A representative from the neighborhood developers group expressed that the lack of educational facilities was a significant issue, leading to the decision to halt plans for constructing two high-rise apartment buildings. The representative emphasized the need for zoning changes to facilitate future developments. Concerns were raised about the condition of the old high school, which has been vacant for over 25 years and is in disrepair, including issues such as a leaky roof and mold. In contrast, the Pope John building, which is structurally sound and has adequate parking, was suggested as a viable option for renovation to address overcrowding in schools.

The discussion then shifted to the property at 25 Garvey Street, which the city acquired in 2014 due to back taxes. Questions arose regarding the lack of recorded transactions related to this property and the subsequent plans presented by Greystar for its development. Residents expressed confusion over the council's decisions regarding the property and called for transparency, suggesting that the matter be investigated by state authorities to ensure proper management of funds and processes.

Public comments also included a plea for the council to reconsider its stance on animal testing regulations. A speaker pointed out that neighboring cities have benefited economically from welcoming life science companies, urging the council to prioritize the future economic health of Everett over personal beliefs.

Additionally, the need for addressing food insecurity in the community was raised, with suggestions to attract a low-cost grocery store to the area instead of relying on food pantries, which some residents felt were detrimental to neighborhood quality of life.

The meeting concluded with a call for strategic planning to enhance the community's infrastructure and economic opportunities, emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability in city governance. The council is expected to consider these discussions in future meetings as they work towards solutions that benefit all residents of Everett.