Bothell City joins Norcom to manage rising dispatch and jail service costs

The City Council of Lake Forest Park convened on July 10, 2025, to address several pressing financial issues impacting the city's budget, particularly concerning public safety and associated costs.

The meeting began with a discussion on the transition to Norcom for dispatch services. The city’s long-time provider, nineeleven dispatch, along with Bothell City, could no longer sustain the financial burden of providing these services. The Chief of Police explored various options, ultimately determining that joining Norcom would be the most cost-effective solution, despite an anticipated annual increase of $284,000. This decision was influenced by the significant costs Bothell had been shouldering for both cities.

Council members also reviewed the rising jail costs, which have reached $197,000 per year. These increases are attributed to broader county trends rather than local decisions. The council previously opted to send long-term inmates to Sunrise Jail, located on the East Side, which has logistical implications for the city.

Insurance costs were another focal point, with increases projected at over $109,000 for 2023 and an additional $84,000 for 2024. These hikes are linked to changes in the insurance market within the state, including the withdrawal of several insurance agencies and a consolidation of reinsurers. The Washington City Insurance Authority, to which Lake Forest Park belongs, has passed these increased costs onto member cities.

Public safety remains the largest budget item for the city, accounting for 34% of total expenses. This category encompasses not only police officers and their equipment but also 911 dispatch services, mental health crisis response through the RACER program, jail costs, insurance, patrol vehicles, and the city’s prosecuting attorney and court services.

The meeting concluded with a clear understanding of the financial challenges ahead, particularly in maintaining public safety services while managing rising costs. The council will continue to explore strategies to address these budgetary pressures in future sessions.