‘Infrastructure means access,’ Ferguson’s new $2.1 billion maintenance push for safe roads and bridges
LACEY—Governor Bob Ferguson unveiled a $2.1 billion plan on Friday to bolster preservation and maintenance of Washington’s roads and bridges, marking the largest such investment in any enacted budget over the past two decades. The proposal, which requires legislative approval during the 2026 session, aims to address long-standing “neglect,” according to Ferguson, in the state’s […]
The ‘Housing Governor,’ Ferguson goes all in with a bold $244 million plan to tackle Washington’s housing crisis
SEATTLE—Governor Bob Ferguson unveiled a $244 million package of housing investments on Thursday and signed an executive order creating a task force to lay the groundwork for a new cabinet-level Department of Housing, to combat what he calls a housing crisis and to help victims of the fatal floods from last week’s atmospheric river. Speaking […]
Washington state’s coal-fired plant TransAlta ordered to remain open by Energy Secretary
[The Center Square]—The Trump administration on Wednesday issued an emergency order requiring a coal-fired power plant in Washington state to remain open this winter, citing a need to ensure grid reliability in the months ahead. Energy Secretary Chris Wright directed Canada-based power generation company TransAlta to keep Unit 2 of the Centralia Generating Station, located […]
Centralia Plant Saved by Gas Conversion – But Is It Enough to Prevent Regional Energy Crisis?
Many in our state are probably too busy dealing with the effects of the latest “atmospheric river” to think about how winter will soon bring its own weather challenges. State lawmakers need to be thinking about it, however. A stretch of sub-freezing temperatures could leave our region’s energy grid struggling to handle the soaring demand […]
Red Cup Rebellion marches on Starbucks headquarters in Seattle ahead of holidays
SEATTLE—Starbucks union workers brought their ‘Red Cup Rebellion’ picket line to the coffee giant’s SODO headquarters Thursday, December 18, demanding the company resolve hundreds of its ULPs, end its “historic union busting” and return to the bargaining table with new proposals to improve pay, staffing, and scheduling. The strike, which launched on November 13 of […]
Community Call-to-Action: Donate now at Stuff the Bus for Historic Flood Relief
SNOHOMISH—In the aftermath of historic flooding that shattered river records and displaced families across Snohomish County, Volunteers of America Western Washington is teaming up with Community Transit and Snohomish County to host a “Stuff the Bus” donation drive this Saturday. The event, set for December 20 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Snohomish Station […]
Snohomish County offers Solid Waste Voucher Program
EVERETT—Snohomish County residents impacted by recent flood conditions can now dispose of flood-damaged household items at no charge at county solid waste facilities through its flood voucher program that ends January 18, 2026. The voucher program is authorized under county code during a state of emergency when safe and rapid removal of garbage would help […]
Public invited to the 2025 Homeless Memorial Vigil, Dec 19
EVERETT—The Snohomish County’s Veterans Homelessness Committee, in partnership with Snohomish County Human Services, invites the community to join in honoring and remembering those who have tragically lost their lives while experiencing homelessness at the 2025 Annual Homeless Memorial Vigil with an emphasis on veterans. This poignant event will take place on Friday, December 19th, at […]
VIPs tour Snohomish County STEM’s ECHO Tour at Edmonds College
LYNNWOOD—A dozen representatives from various industry sectors took part in Snohomish County STEM’s ECHO (Exploring Careers in Healthcare Opportunities) Tour on Tuesday, December 16, at Edmonds College’s Hazel Miller Hall. ECHO Tour is a hands-on career exploration event that connects high school students across Snohomish County with real healthcare professionals, tools, and pathways. Through interactive, […]
Port of Everett cuts ribbon on new Net Shed Fish Market at Restaurant Place
EVERETT—The Port of Everett and the Way Hospitality Group cut the ribbon on a brand new “tide to table” fresh fish market – the Net Shed Fish Market – at the Port’s ever-expanding Restaurant Row on Tuesday, December 16. The Net Shed Fish Market is a year-round fresh fish market and restaurant inspired by Everett’s […]
