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Council authorizes contract negotiations for regional indigent defense provider to start July 1
Summary
The council authorized the mayor to execute a professional services agreement with North County Public Defense for indigent defense services shared by Sedro‑Woolley, Burlington and Mount Vernon. The city expects costs to rise relative to prior contracts and staff will return if costs exceed the budgeted worst‑case estimate.
Sedro‑Woolley authorized the mayor to enter a professional service agreement with North County Public Defense to provide indigent defense services starting July 1, 2025, in a shared contract with Mount Vernon and Burlington.
Why it matters: Indigent defense is a mandated public service. The previous provider (Mountain Law) is winding down and cities must secure new counsel to avoid gaps in representation. The council approved authorization to finalize a contract so services…
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