I am writing to express my deep concern over the repeated misconduct Lynnwood Council Vice President Joshua Binda, which has damaged public trust, wasted city resources, and compromised the integrity of our city government. I urge Mayor Frizzell and esteemed members of the Lynnwood City Council, to take action and hold him accountable for his misconduct rather than enabling it with rule changes designed to accommodate him.
Why Councilmember Binda’s Actions Hurt Our Community
1. Residency Violation – Ineligible to Serve
Binda has been living in south Everett for over a year, making him ineligible to hold office. He is not a registered voter in Lynnwood, yet he continues to vote on policies that affect our residents. By allowing him to remain in office, the council is setting a precedent that elected officials do not need to follow the very rules they impose on this community.
2. Bending the Rules for One Person Undermines Democracy
There is discussion about forming a committee to amend the Lynnwood Municipal Code to accommodate his residency violation. This is a gross misuse of power. Rules should apply to everyone—not be rewritten for one person’s benefit. Doing so damages the credibility of the entire city council and sets a dangerous precedent for future corruption.
3. 52% Property Tax Increase— A Vote from Someone Who Shouldn’t Be Voting
Lynnwood residents are now facing a 52% increase in property taxes, a significant financial burden in an already challenging economy. Councilmember Binda, who does not live in Lynnwood and does not pay these taxes, supported this increase without personally being affected by its consequences. The community should not be paying the price for decisions made by someone who lacks the legal standing to participate.
4. Misuse of City Resources for Personal Gain
He used council chambers and city email to promote his private speaking tour, profiting at least $14,500. Public office is not a personal business platform. Taxpayer dollars should fund community needs, not a councilmember’s self-promotion. Every minute and every dollar spent dealing with his actions is time and money taken away from addressing real community issues, such as public safety, infrastructure, and economic development.
5. Campaign Finance Violations—Spending on Luxury Instead of Ethics
He misused over $2,700 in campaign funds for designer clothing and airfare. If he cannot handle his own finances responsibly, how can he be trusted with city budgets?
6. Inappropriate Conduct—A Lack of Professionalism
Councilmember Binda has demonstrated a lack of respect for the role he holds. His shirtless Instagram post to promote a school speaking tour was highly unprofessional, inappropriate, and cast Lynnwood’s leadership in an embarrassing light. Elected officials must uphold higher standards. His inability to uphold basic professionalism damages the credibility of the entire city council.
The Council Must Act—Lynnwood Demands Accountability
Lynnwood Council Vice President Binda has wasted time, resources, and taxpayer money. The council must:
- Remove him immediately for failing residency requirements.
- Reject any changes to the LMC that would bend the rules to accommodate his violations.
- Uphold ethical and professional standards for all city officials.
Failure to act on this matter will only erode public trust further and signal that corruption and dishonesty are tolerated in Lynnwood’s leadership. I encourage the council to prioritize the integrity of our city government and act in the best interests of the people who live, work, and pay taxes in Lynnwood. The community is watching—do the right thing.
Sincerely,
Phong Nguyen, Lynnwood
Op-Ed DISCLAIMER: The views and comments expressed are those of the writer and not necessarily those of the Lynnwood Times nor any of its affiliates.
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
