LYNNWOOD—It is with great sadness we report that former Lynnwood Councilman Jim Smith, 75, passed away at 5:30 p.m., Thursday, January 15, his wife, Sherry informed the Lynnwood Times.
“Tonight, Jim Smith is flying our plane to heaven. It was very peaceful. I will miss him deeply as I know all of you will. Rest in peace my love,” wrote Sherry on Facebook.
Jim Smith, born in Seattle, had been a steadfast figure in Lynnwood’s civic life, embodying a commitment to public service that spanned more than a quarter-century. As a long-time resident of Lynnwood since at least 1968, Smith had consistently prioritized public safety, fiscal responsibility, and the well-being of Lynnwood residents. His tenure on the Lynnwood City Council reflected a hands-on approach to governance, marked by advocacy for law enforcement, tax relief, and practical solutions to local challenges.
Smith graduated from Edmonds-Woodway High School and attended Central Washington University, where he earned a double bachelor’s degree in business administration and law and justice. He and his wife, Sherry, raised their four daughters in Lynnwood, instilling family values that extended into his public life.
Professionally, Smith had a notable career in the music and entertainment industry as the owner, CEO, and COO of UNICAM Entertainment. For decades, he booked and managed musical entertainment groups, produced concerts and events, and represented cover bands that performed at high schools and college dances across the region. He also played in local bands during his earlier years, with his latest called “GenRAShun.” His music career focused on covers from the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, and beyond, bringing music to senior centers throughout the Puget Sound.
Smith’s journey in public office began with his election to the Lynnwood City Council, where he served multiple terms, accumulating over 25 years of experience. He was re-elected to the Council in 2019, where he held Position 4.
During his time on the council, Smith took on key leadership roles, including serving as Council Vice President. His liaison responsibilities included the Disability Board, among others, where he worked to address community needs in areas like accessibility and public facilities.
Smith has also served on the Snohomish County Board of Health for over a decade, was Chairman of the Board, and served of the LEOFF-1 Disability Board for over 12 years. He is the founder and past president of the Lynnwood Chamber as well as State President of the Washington Pilot’s Association. He championed events such as the Lynnwood Christmas Tree Lighting and Celebration and the Lynnwood 4th of July Celebration. He was also chairman of Lynnwood’s Festival for four years.
Throughout his political career, Smith emphasized public safety as the council’s paramount duty. He was a vocal supporter of the Lynnwood Police Department, highlighting his long-standing respect and involvement with law enforcement.
“My support, involvement and respect for our Lynnwood Police goes back decades,” he stated during his campaigns.
Smith was also known for his fiscal conservatism and efforts to alleviate financial burdens on residents. In October 2021, he played a pivotal role in a 4-3 council vote to eliminate the $40 vehicle license fee; which was later vetoed by former Mayor Nicola Smith.
Supporters praised him as a “known quantity” with “proven experience” and a “steady hand,” particularly for his emphasis on reducing taxes and keeping Lynnwood affordable for all residents.
In 2021, Smith sought higher office by running for mayor of Lynnwood with a platform centered on experienced leadership and community-oriented governance.
In 2022, he was investigated by Haggard & Ganson LLP into allegations of discrimination by the former Mayor Nicola Smith’s Executive Assistant and a few members of the DEI Commission. The law firm’s report substantiated some claims but found others, like creating a hostile work environment, unsubstantiated. Smith responded by calling the report “misleading,” “distorts the evidence,” heavily “subjective,” and “lacking in facts and evidence.” He was never allowed to cross-examine nor formally contest any of the report’s findings prior it its release.
The council opted for sensitivity training workshops in response, but no formal penalties were imposed. Smith was in the process of preparing a lawsuit against the City of Lynnwood related to what he called, a “sham investigation” prior to his passing.
Undeterred, Smith announced his re-election bid for the council in May 2023 at Moonshine Barbecue, rallying under the slogan “Don’t Seattle our Lynnwood.” Despite his efforts, he did not secure re-election. In December 2023, as he prepared to leave office, Smith departed in what was described as a “blaze of glory,” successfully pushing forward four motions for the incoming council during his final meeting, one that included an audit of the City’s finances.
Jim Smith’s legacy in Lynnwood is one of enduring dedication. Through his advocacy for safer streets, lower taxes, and responsive governance, he left an indelible mark on Lynnwood, the city he called home for decades.
Smith, who was battling ALS (Lou Gerig’s disease), survived by his wife Sherry of 25 years, his four daughters, two grandchildren and his beloved Shih Tzu, Lulu. He recently celebrated his 75th birthday on December 30, surrounded by friends and family.
Author: Mario Lotmore
