MUKILTEO—At its Business Meeting on February 20, the Mukilteo City Council amended its building and fire codes and approved legislative priorities from its annual retreat. Also, Mukilteo Police Chief Andy Illyn presented local crime fighter and resident, Debbie Willcut, with the Community Law Enforcement Award for her exemplary volunteer service to public safety. All councilmembers were present for the meeting except for Councilman Steve Shmaltz.
Community Law Enforcement Award
Below is Chief Illyn’s speech to the City Council in its entirety:
“One of our core values at the Mukilteo Police Department is Community. Yet, I haven’t always done the best job of recognizing our excellent partners within our city. Tonight, I want to rectify that by presenting a very special award.
“Since arriving in our city, Debbie has exemplified unwavering dedication to our department. Her steadfast support is evident through her consistent donations of snacks, cards and amazing lemon bars, providing food and reminding our officers that the community appreciates their often selfless and unseen actions. I don’t think I would be exaggerating by saying she stops by almost weekly.
“Debbie’s partnership with the Mukilteo Police Department has been nothing short of exemplary. Her proactive engagement in various initiatives, including her participation in the citizen’s academy, presence at National Night Out events, attendance at promotion ceremonies, and active involvement in community meetings, demonstrates her deep commitment to fostering a strong and collaborative bond between the community and law enforcement.
“Furthermore, Debbie’s invaluable role as a source of crucial information cannot be overstated. Her willingness to pass on tips to the department has directly contributed to the success of several operations, underscoring the significant impact of citizen engagement on our collective efforts to ensure public safety.
“Debbie Wilcutt’s selfless dedication, proactive involvement, and valuable contributions embody the spirit of the Community Law Enforcement Award. Her exemplary support and partnership with the Police Department serve as a shining example of the positive impact that an engaged citizen can have on law enforcement and the community as a whole.
“In recognition of Debbie Willcut’s exceptional commitment to supporting the Police Department and her outstanding contributions to the community, we proudly present her with the Community Law Enforcement Award.”
Amendments to Mukilteo building and fire codes
Councilman Mike Dixon motioned to adopt amendments to the Mukilteo building and fire codes, as-is, which was seconded by Councilman Richard Emery. The motion passed unanimously, 6-0.
The City of Mukilteo currently uses 2018 codes for building and fire review. The Internation Code Council develops new codes on a three-year code cycle. These codes are then reviewed and approved at a state level before being available for adoption by local jurisdictions. This code update has been delayed due to litigation, but the 2021 codes have been adopted by the state and will become effective on March 15, 2024. We are required to update the Mukilteo Municipal Code to reflect the 2021 code standards. Any amendments to the base code require a public hearing.
City staff are recommending adopting the 2021 codes with minor amendments to tailor the codes to Mukilteo’s needs. This would include modifications to the refunds and appeal processes to match how they are done for other local permits. Staff confirmed with the state code authority that these modifications are acceptable. This update will adopt the 2021 edition of the following code books:
- International Building Code
- International Residential Code
- International Mechanical Code
- International Fuel Gas Code
- Uniform Plumbing Code
- International Swimming Pool and Spa Code
- International Energy Conservation Code
- Existing Building Code
- International Wildland Urban Interface Code
- International Fire Code
To view the supporting documents, click on a link below:
LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES
The council adopted its priorities list developed from its annual retreat on February 10, 2024. The motion passed unanimously, 6-0.
Below are its legislative priorities from the retreat:
Short Term Priorities
- Long Range Financial Plan
- Fire Department Sustainability (Study of)
- Better City Council Utilization of DEI, MYAC, and PAC
Long Term Priorities
- Waterfront Development
- Economic Development
To view supporting documentation, click here.
OTHER BUSINESS
The council approved the following items listed in its consent agenda:
- Approval of minutes for January 9, 2024, Work Session and February 5, 2024, Regular Meeting (AB24-047)
- Council to approve payment vouchers of $2.9 million
- Police Vehicle Purchase. To authorize Mayor Joe Marine or his designee to purchase a 2024 Ford F150 Police Responder for the Police Department in an amount not to exceed $90,000.
- Award 76th Street Parking Lot paving contract to Quilceda Paving & Construction, Inc. in the amount of $75,000
- Authorize Mayor Marine to sign a Department of Ecology (DOE) Pollutant Removal Grant Acceptance in the amount of $440,829 for WQC-2024-Mukilt-00156 Stormwater Pipe Pollutant Removal Project Phase 2.
- Approve $1,170 in travel reimbursement to Mayor Marine, Councilmember Jason Moon, and Councilmember Donna Vago for the Association of Washington Cities Legislative City Action Days.
- Climate Change Grant Acceptance. To authorize Mayor Marine to sign a $500,000 grant contract with the Department of
- Commerce to develop Climate Change Policies with no match requirement.
Author: Mario Lotmore
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