The Lynnwood City Council convened for a special work session on September 29, 2025, focusing on budgetary discussions led by Police Chief Cole Langdon. The meeting, which did not allow for public comments, aimed to provide insights into the decision-making processes of the police department as it seeks to reduce its budget over the current biennium.

Chief Langdon emphasized the importance of sustainability in budgeting, indicating that this would be a recurring theme throughout the discussions. The council members present included Mayor Frizzell, Council President Coelho, and several other council members, all of whom expressed their commitment to understanding the financial strategies being proposed.

The session's primary focus was on how the police department plans to navigate budget constraints while maintaining effective public safety services. This is particularly relevant as cities across the region grapple with similar financial challenges, making the outcomes of Lynnwood's discussions potentially influential for neighboring communities.

In addition to the police department's budget considerations, the meeting highlighted the council's proactive approach to fiscal responsibility. By prioritizing sustainable budgeting practices, the council aims to ensure that essential services can continue without compromising quality or safety.

As the session concluded, the council members were expected to deliberate further on the proposed budget strategies in upcoming meetings. The discussions from this work session set the stage for future decisions that will impact both the police department and the broader Lynnwood community.