The Lynnwood City Council has scheduled a special work session for September 29 at 6 PM to address the anticipated budget shortfall for the 2025-2026 biennium. This decision comes as council members emphasize the need for more thorough deliberation on the budget, aiming to gather essential information from city directors before the regular agenda becomes too crowded.

Council member Coelho highlighted the importance of front-loading discussions to ensure that the council can make informed decisions without being rushed later in the year. The session will feature key city directors, including Police Chief Cole Langdon and Director of Building and Safety, Director Walters, who are expected to provide insights into potential cuts to city services and revenue-generating strategies.

The motion to hold the work session was passed with a majority vote, indicating strong support among council members for proactive budget discussions. This meeting aims to clarify the financial challenges ahead and explore solutions that will impact the community's services and resources.

In addition to the budget discussions, the council also entered an executive session to discuss a potential real estate transaction, signaling ongoing efforts to manage city assets effectively. The outcomes of these discussions will be crucial for shaping Lynnwood's financial landscape and ensuring that city services remain robust in the face of budgetary constraints.