EVERETT—At the Wednesday, Jan. 7, 2026, City Council meeting, the City of Everett swore in multiple elected and appointed leaders, including Cassie Franklin for a new mayoral term, five city councilmembers and Everett’s recently appointed police chief.
Mayor Franklin begins her third term after being re-elected by Everett voters in the November 2025 General Election. She originally took office in 2018, becoming Everett’s first elected female mayor.
“It’s an honor to continue serving this community and I’m grateful for the trust Everett residents have placed in me,” said Mayor Franklin. “Our priorities are clear: public safety, with an emphasis on youth and traffic safety; housing and human needs; sustaining quality-of-life services and amenities; and strengthening community engagement. My commitment is to ensure Everett is positioned to lead today and for generations to come.”
Re-elected and newly elected city council representatives
Everett has a total of seven city council positions, with two at large positions and five that each represent a district. All five district positions were on the ballot in 2025. The city councilmembers sworn in were:
- Erica Weir (District 1), newly elected to the City Council following the November 2025 General Election.
- Paula Rhyne (District 2), re-elected to continue representing her district.
- Don Schwab (District 3), re-elected to continue representing his district.
- Luis Burbano (District 4), newly elected to the City Council following the November 2025 General Election.
- Ben Zarlingo (District 5), re-elected to continue representing his district.
Re-elected Municipal Court judges
Additionally, Everett has two full time elected Municipal Court judges and both positions were on Everett ballots in 2025. Municipal Court Judge Amy C. Kaestner (Position 1) and Judge Remy Leonard (Position 2) were both re-elected by the voters in November for four-year terms.
Newly appointed chief of police
Robert Goetz was sworn as Everett’s new chief of police, appointed by Mayor Franklin to lead the Everett Police Department following the retirement of Chief John DeRousse.
“I’m incredibly grateful to Deputy Chief Goetz for accepting this appointment to serve as Everett’s new chief of police,” said Mayor Franklin. “Robert brings decades of experience; strong relationships throughout the department and across the region; and a steady leadership style that reflects the values of our community. His willingness to step up and serve in this capacity during this period of transition speaks to his commitment to this department and the people of Everett.”
Previously, Chief Goetz served as a deputy chief, overseeing the department’s Investigations and Services Bureau. He brings more than 34 years of service with the department, with experience across nearly every operational and administrative function – including as administrative lieutenant with the Snohomish Regional Drug Task Force, patrol sergeant, detective with the Office of Professional Standards, school resource officer, public information officer, member of the Marine Unit and a longtime member of the department’s Honor Guard.
“It’s an honor to step into the role of chief and continue the strong legacy of integrity, professionalism and innovation built by Chiefs DeRousse, Templeman and the leaders before them,” said Deputy Chief Goetz. “Everett has an outstanding police department, and I remain committed to supporting our officers, staff and the Everett community as we move forward together.”
Source: City of Everett
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
