Lynnwood Council approves $6.4 million tax exemption for new 318-unit mixed-use development
LYNNWOOD—The council unanimously approved the mayor to enter into an eight-year $6.4 million Multifamily Tax Exemption (MFTE) for ACG Acquisitions, LLC, the developer of the new 318-unit mixed-use housing development, ENSO. The Multi-Family Housing Property Tax Exemption (MFTE) program began in 1995, codified as RCW 84.14, to incentivize residential development in urban centers, designated as […]
Council considers sensitivity training after investigation falls flat
LYNNWOOD, Wash., September 27, 2022—Yesterday, the Lynnwood City Council commenced the 2023 biennium budget process and decided to take sensitivity training workshops after allegations of racial and sexual discrimination by two staff members. All councilmembers were present for the meeting. Will Cena, Information Technology Director for the City of Lynnwood, presented the recent accomplishments of […]
Jim Smith breaks his silence: The truth about the Racism Report
LYNNWOOD, August 31, 2022—In a third-party investigation by Haggard & Ganson LLP of allegations against Councilman Jim Smith concludes that “claims of race and sex discrimination” by City Executive Assistant Leah Jensen is substantiated but the claim of a hostile work environment by City of Lynnwood Race and Social Justice Coordinator Douglas Raiford was “not substantiated.” Below is an […]
Investigation substantiates claims of race and sex discrimination by Lynnwood councilman
LYNNWOOD, Wash., August 20, 2022— A third-party investigation by Haggard & Ganson LLP into one of Lynnwood’s councilmembers concludes that “claims of race and sex discrimination” by one complainant is substantiated but the claim of a hostile work environment by the other “not substantiated.” The council will decide in September on possible disciplinary actions against […]
Douglas Raiford hired as Lynnwood RSJ Coordinator
LYNNWOOD, Wash., August 17, 2021 – Mayor Nicola Smith hired Douglas Raiford to serve as the City’s first Race and Social Justice Coordinator. According to the press release, Mayor Smith advocated the need for a dedicated staff member to further Lynnwood’s commitment to being a safe, welcoming, and equitable community for all. “For many years […]
