During the Everett City Council meeting on April 8, 2024, significant concerns were raised regarding the future of the old high school and the proposed construction of a new stadium. The discussions highlighted deep community dissatisfaction with current city leadership and the handling of local infrastructure issues.

Peggy Serino, a resident, opened the meeting by criticizing the mayor's plan to borrow $1.14 million for roof repairs on the old high school, which she described as unsafe and in disrepair. She argued that the city should instead focus on renovating Pope John High School, which she believes could alleviate overcrowding in local schools. Serino expressed skepticism about the mayor's claims regarding state funding for the new high school, asserting that the financial support would not meet the city's needs.

Following Serino, Steve Iannaco echoed her sentiments, questioning the safety of the old high school and criticizing the mayor's inconsistent stance on whether to renovate or demolish it. He urged the council to prioritize the needs of the community over what he termed the mayor's "petulant" behavior and mismanagement.

The proposed stadium, which would be built near the Encore casino, also drew sharp criticism. Residents voiced concerns about traffic congestion and the potential burden on city services. Iannaco and other speakers argued that the stadium would not benefit local taxpayers, who would likely face increased costs without receiving adequate returns from the project. John Pablo, another resident, emphasized the need for transparency in the negotiations surrounding the stadium and the casino's host agreement, suggesting that the mayor's focus on billionaire developers was detrimental to the community.

Mary Fortin and Myra Gutierrez further articulated the frustrations of residents, calling for accountability from city officials and expressing doubts about the administration's ability to manage the city's growth effectively. Gutierrez specifically pointed out the existing traffic issues and the saturation of new developments in the area, arguing that the proposed stadium would exacerbate these problems.

The meeting underscored a growing discontent among Everett residents regarding city governance, particularly in relation to infrastructure decisions and financial management. As the council continues to deliberate on these pressing issues, the community's call for greater accountability and transparency remains a central theme. The outcome of these discussions could significantly impact the future of Everett's educational facilities and urban development.