In my eight years as Marysville’s mayor, this city has made significant investments in public safety and infrastructure.
My proposed $352 million budget for the next two years continues to deliver on other long-term investments.
These include major projects like building the First Street Bypass in anticipation of the new I-5/SR529 freeway interchange and widening State Avenue north of 100th Street NE, extending the Ebey Waterfront Trail and connecting Bayview Trail to the Centennial Trail.
I propose adding two new officers in both 2019 and 2020. It is important to note that 66 percent of the city’s General Fund is allocated toward Law, Safety and Justice.
Three other proposed new FTEs are a grant-funded Streets worker and two Utilities positions.
All of these investments are made on behalf of, and to serve, our residents and taxpayers.
People rely on cities for core services like public safety, streets, utilities and parks.
Here in Marysville, my third balanced biennial budget will continue to deliver and improve upon those services through 2020.
Some other highlights:
•Transportation Infrastructure
Intersection improvements on Soper Hill Road and Sunnyside Boulevard
•Economic Development and Quality of Life
Build new Olympic View Park Continue to build on Opera House success with local cultural events
•Public Safety
Construct new Public Safety Building (Police, Jail and Municipal Court) •Police Continue successful anti-bullying campaign in schools •Fire
Continue to pursue Regional Fire Authority with Fire District 12 •Public Works – Transportation
Design and construction of State Avenue signal improvements at intersections of 3rd Street, 6th Street, 8th Street, 76th Street NE and 80th Street NE
Design and permitting to widen 88th Street NE between State Avenue and 67th Avenue NE
Deliver on voter-approved Transportation Benefit District projects:
2019 Pavement Preservation Program and ADA ramp upgrades:
State Avenue (Grove Street to 88th Street NE)
Lakewood Crossing area: 27th Avenue NE, 171st Place NE, 169th Place NE, Twin Lakes Boulevard Build intersection improvements at Soper Hill Road and 83rd Avenue NE
Design intersection improvements at Soper Hill Road and 71st Avenue NE
Construct Alder Avenue sidewalk improvements Develop ADA Transition Plan and pavement management system Complete traffic safety improvement projects
•Utilities Water: System upgrades and well site exploration Sewer: Treatment plant head works rehabilitation, sewer lift station
I look forward to discussing these proposals and our shared priorities with the City Council. We also want to invite public comment. A public hearing on the proposed budget is scheduled for 7 p.m. Nov. 13 in the City Council Chambers at City Hall, 1049 State Ave.
Jon Nehring is the mayor of Marysville. His column runs monthly.
