LYNNWOOD—At its Business Meeting on February 9, 2026, the Lynnwood City Council revised councilmember liaison assignments and approved an Interlocal Agreement with South County Fire regarding an Embedded Health Worker program.
Mayor George Hurst, inspired by a recent Cops and Clergy meeting, proposes forming a mayor’s committee of service providers—including LETI, Refugee & Immigrant Services Northwest, and Washington West African Center, who have shown interest—and other stakeholders to address ICE activity in Lynnwood. Key proposed actions for people affected by ICE activity Hurst is recommending are:
- Prevent impoundment of abandoned vehicles to reduce family costs.
- Verify if arrests involve judicial warrants.
- Offer financial aid like rental/mortgage assistance for families during prolonged detentions.
Funding could come from the faith community, drawing on biblical principles of caring for strangers and neighbors. The idea is in early stages but will move forward quickly, Hurst shared.
The council unanimously approved an Interlocal Agreement (ILA) for Embedded Community Health Worker Services between the Lynnwood Police Department and South County Fire. The program is funded by Verdant via South Snohomish County Fire. The scope of services is not to exceed funding provided by the grant and there is no financial impact to the City of Lynnwood.
In Partnership with LPD and Verdant, SCF will offer a dedicated Community Health Worker (CHW) full time who is available weekdays. A CHW will provide Resource and Care Management.
Types of assistance include:
- Care plan follow-up – we help patients understand doctor’s orders
- Detox programs – for alcohol or drug addiction
- Housing referrals – for people at risk of homelessness
- Transportation for care (Uber)
- Home hazards – identifying and reducing health risks and improve home safety by installing grab bars, smoke alarms and other life saving devices
- In-home care referrals
- Offer options and coordinate connections to those suffering from opioid use disorder.
Council President Nick Coelho introduced the motion which was seconded by Vice President Derica Escamilla. The Anticipated start date is April1, 2026. Currently, LPD is backfilling the position with available personnel.
Other Business
- Proclamation: Lunar New Year
- Newly appointed Councilwoman Chelsea Wright was appointed to the 911 Board.
Author: Mario Lotmore
