Everett Council addresses neighborhood crime and vacant properties concerns

The Everett City Council meeting on April 2, 2025, highlighted pressing community concerns regarding vacant properties and their impact on local safety and quality of life. Residents voiced their frustrations about abandoned buildings in their neighborhoods, which have become hotspots for crime and homelessness. One resident urged council members to visit these areas to witness the issues firsthand, emphasizing the need for a sensible solution to the ongoing problems.

In response, council members acknowledged the concerns raised and discussed potential actions, including exploring code enforcement measures to address the situation. Council member Bridal noted the importance of understanding the processes involved in dealing with these properties and suggested a future presentation from code enforcement staff to clarify the steps that can be taken.

Additionally, the council recognized the efforts of the police department during an awards ceremony, celebrating the contributions of officers and volunteers who work to keep the community safe. Council member Bader expressed appreciation for the event, highlighting the positive stories often overlooked in the news.

Other topics discussed included upcoming community events, such as Bike Riding Month in May, and the introduction of a drone system for police response, which aims to enhance public safety. Council member Tuohy emphasized the importance of community engagement in these initiatives, encouraging residents to participate in discussions about the drone program and its implications for privacy and civil rights.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from council members to continue addressing the concerns raised by residents, particularly regarding vacant properties, and to keep the community informed about ongoing efforts to improve safety and quality of life in Everett. As the council moves forward, they aim to foster a collaborative approach to tackling these challenges, ensuring that the voices of residents are heard and considered in decision-making processes.